Argex Titanium Inc. announced that it has completed work at its Valleyfield Technology Center confirming key hydrometallurgical process innovations for the production of pigment grade TiO2. The Argex hydrometallurgical process is based on the development of a fully integrated process, including chloride leaching of the feedstock, solvent extraction ­ separation and purification of iron and titanium compounds, hydrochloric acid recovery, iron chloride by- product recovery and the conversion of titanium to market grade TiO2. This work has also been supported by Argex's research services agreement with PPG Industries.

Argex has put in place a technical team and a project execution plan to minimize technical risk, maximize commercial viability and provide the link for a proper technology transfer from the process technology to the design of a commercial production facility. A six (6) month Process Intensification Program has been planned by Argex to assure commercial readiness of the hydrometallurgical process technology. After three (3) months into the Process Intensification Program, Argex plans to launch Front-End Engineering Design (FEED/FEL3) work and the purchase of long delivery process equipment that will lead to plant design and construction.