The lithium giant anticipates creating at least 200 jobs at the site, with an average salary of $94,000 per year.

Lithium prices, expected to stay at record highs, have the world’s second-biggest miner actively looking for lithium acquisitions.

Martin Preece, who runs the company’s South Deep gold mine in South Africa, will take on the role of interim CEO while the board searches for a new boss.

Researchers have developed a non-flammable electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries that allows the devices to continue to function at high temperatures.

BHP will help I-Pulse and its affiliate I-Rox, in which is also taking an equity position, develop technologies that can curb energy use in the mining sector.