PyroGenesis Confirms Production of Fumed Silica at Pilot Scale Following Independent Analysis

Core Viewpoint - PyroGenesis Inc. has successfully produced fumed silica material that exceeds expectations during the latest pilot runs, indicating progress in the development of its Fumed Silica Reactor (FSR) project [1][4]. Group 1: Project Development - The FSR pilot plant has progressed through several important stages, moving from lab-scale tests to pilot plant scale to validate equipment scale-up and replicate product quality [2]. - An important milestone was achieved with the production and collection of powder in the product recovery unit, confirming that the collected powder is indeed fumed silica [3][4]. - Independent analysis confirmed that the amount of fumed silica produced was greater than anticipated, which is promising for the project's economics [4]. Group 2: Product Characteristics - The collected fumed silica powder aligns well with the microstructure and complexity of commercial-grade fumed silica produced by Evonik Corporation, typically in the range of 150 to 200 m²/g [6]. - The pilot plant will focus on enhancing product purity and achieving a production target of 50 tonnes per year (TPY) [13]. Group 3: Future Objectives - The balance of the pilot plant program will focus on optimizing tests to improve process control, silica conversion efficiency, yield, and product surface areas [8][13]. - The results from the characterization and optimization phases will be crucial for determining market fit and making the system commercially viable [8]. Group 4: Industry Context - Fumed silica is widely used in various products, including personal care items, pharmaceuticals, and construction materials, serving as a thickening and anti-caking agent [9]. - PyroGenesis' development of fumed silica from quartz is part of its broader strategy to enhance commodity security and optimize material production techniques [10].