Geomega Resources Inc., the Quebec-based rare earths clean technologies developer for mining and recycling, has announced the start-up production of hand sanitizer. The company plans to provide the product to retirement homes and hospitals in the province, who are in urgent need to help combat the spread of the COVID-19.
Geomega is modifying its Rare Earth Pilot Plant facility, located at the National Research Council in Boucherville, Quebec, to be able to produce the needed emergency supplies.
The Geomega technical team, led by Dr. Hajiani, Geomega's Chief Technology Officer, have proposed, evaluated and concluded that the pilot plant at the NRC facility could be modified to produce hand sanitizer liquid in order to help with the region's needs. The company has since received the natural product number and all the approvals from Health Canada in order to manufacture hand sanitizer, using the WHO-recommended formulation. Modifications to Geomega's pilot plant are currently being finalized.
"Geomega's chemical processing team has proven once again its skill to utilize its expertise with evolving market conditions," commented Kiril Mugerman, President & CEO of Geomega. "I am proud of our team that shows flexibility, motivation and creativity, especially during a difficult situation like we see globally today. Geomega can assure its shareholders that these modifications to the pilot plant will in no way impede the progress of building the much larger demonstration plant located in nearby St. Bruno, Quebec.
Mugerman continues, "Geomega strives to become Canada's first rare earth oxide producer, using recycled magnet waste, making Canada one of the few countries outside of Asia to be able to do so. Geomega has continued to advance even under recent difficult social distancing measures and is progressing successfully in the engineering work with Hatch. Upon engineering being completed, ordering the long lead items for the facility will be a priority."
According to Geomega, they secured project debt financing of $1.72M from the Quebec Government in February, which has effectively fulfilled the required capital to complete construction of the Demonstration Plant. In conjunction with the Quebec Government, the company says it has a very clear objective to establish Quebec as a hub for a clean technology and sustainable rare earths refining industry, self reliant and not dependant on other countries for key materials.
"In light of recent events and supply shortages, as highlighted by reported delays in medical ventilators construction due to lack of permanent magnets (see full article here), this has never been more critical," said Mugerman. "Geomega looks forward to further engagement with end users and Governments on rare earths recycling and establishing a sustainable supply chain based right here in Quebec, Canada."
Geomega will be donating 20% of its hand-sanitizer production to local long-term care homes and other charities who are helping the most vulnerable in our society during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
