HPQ Gen1 Nano Silicon Reactor Exceeds Expectations, Produces Sub 100 Nm Spherical Nanopowders & Nanowires MONTREAL, Jan. 21, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Innovative silicon solutions provider HPQ Silicon Resources Inc. (“HPQ” or “the Company”) (TSX-V: HPQ; FWB: UGE; Other OTC : URAGF), through its wholly – owned subsidiary, HPQ Nano Silicon Powders inc (“HPQ NANO”), is pleased to update shareholders on milestones achieved during ongoing Gen1 PUREVAPTM Nano Silicon Reactor (“NSiR”) commissioning tests conducted by technology provider PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (TSX: PYR).
“With the Gen1 PUREVAPTM NSiR operational and exceeding expectations from the start, HPQ NANO is uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of low-cost manufacturing of Nano Silicon for batteries and other applications, as we continue working on scaling up the capabilities of our PUREVAPTM NSiR process.” said Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO HPQ Silicon.
PUREVAPTM NSiR LOW-COST PROCESS: FIRST RESULTS ENCOURAGING, MORE TESTING TO FOLLOW
The material produced, under the less than optimum operating conditions of the first commissioning tests, was analysed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging combined with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and yielded the following information:
- Gen1 NSiR system performance exceeded design and modelling expectations:
• Successfully produced sub 100 nm silicon - based spherical nanopowders & nanowires.
• Computer models suggested that the size limit of the material produced would be between 100 nm and 200 nm. - SEM-XRD analysis indicates that the < 100 nm Si base spherical nanopowders & nanowires material could be used as anode material for Li-ion batteries, combined with graphite or not.
- Samples from these commissioning tests have been sent to Professor Lionel ROU of the Centre nergie Matriaux Tlcommunications (EMT) for electro-chemical evaluation.
- Using results from data collected during these preliminary tests, PyroGenesis technical team has improved the design of the system and the operational parameters of the reactor.
• It will be possible to provide further inputs and controls on the process to customize the composition and size of the spherical nano powders and nano wires. - The Gen1 NSiR is now ready to commence further testing of Silicon nano materials under new conditions, with a goal of producing larger size Silicon (Si) nanopowders and nanowires.
A METHODICAL APPROACH TO THE COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT OF OUR DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Despite massive investment in Silicon material for batteries, current manufacturing processes are simply not scalable or commercially viable. The PUREVAPTM NSiR represents a game changing leap forward in resolving the issues of commercial viability and scalability, and with the Gen1 NSiR now operational, HPQ NANO is uniquely well positioned to offer industry participants a wide spectrum of products for testing.
The scale of the Gen1 PUREVAPTM NSiR allows HPQ NANO technical provider PyroGenesis to take full advantage of a quick R&D feedback loop during the testing phase. Over short periods, tests are completed, material produced is analysed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging combined with X-ray diffraction (XRD), operational parameters are reviewed and system modifications and/or operational improvements are implemented. This is the key to our methodical approach of developing a truly disruptive low-cost technology that is going to change nano silicon materials manufacturing.
Tourillon added “HPQ’s Silicon R&D consortium has the depth and flexibility to meet the challenges as we strive to produce products for renewable energy storage participants and electric vehicle manufacturers, who are searching for cost effective ways of increasing the Silicon contained in their batteries. Silicon’s potential to meet energy storage demand is undeniable, generating massive investments, and serious industry interest. We are very confident that the Silicon materials we are producing, with our expected low-cost scalable processes, will be in high demand by batteries, EV manufacturers and other participants in the ongoing renewable energy revolution.”
About PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
PyroGenesis Canada Inc., a high-tech company, is a leader in the design, development, manufacture and commercialization of advanced plasma processes and products. The Company provides its engineering and manufacturing expertise and its turnkey process equipment packages to customers in the defense, metallurgical, mining, advanced materials (including 3D printing), and environmental industries. With a team of experienced engineers, scientists and technicians working out of its Montreal office and its 3,800 m2 manufacturing facility, PyroGenesis maintains its competitive advantage by remaining at the forefront of technology development and commercialization. The Company’s core competencies allow PyroGenesis to provide innovative plasma torches, plasma waste processes, high-temperature metallurgical processes, and engineering services to the global marketplace. PyroGenesis’ operations are ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified. For more information, please visit www.pyrogenesis.com.