HPQ’s Pilot-Scale Fumed Silica Production Nears Commercial Viability

SEM analysis of Phase 1 Test #5 materials confirms successful scale-up and sets the stage for Phase 2 performance trials in August.

MONTREAL, Canada — HPQ Silicon Inc. (“HPQ” or the “Company”) (TSX-V: HPQ) (OTCQB: HPQFF) (FRA: 8PY1), a technology company driving innovation in advanced materials and critical process development, is pleased to update shareholders on progress from its proprietary Fumed Silica Reactor (FSR) pilot project, developed in partnership with PyroGenesis Inc. (TSX: PYR, OTCQX: PYRGF, FRA: 8PY1).

Following its July 3rd announcement, the Company has now received an independent Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) [1] analysis of materials produced during Phase 1 Tests #4 and #5.

SEM RESULTS CONFIRM MAJOR TECHNICAL MILESTONE

PyroGenesis’ evaluation of the SEM report confirms that materials produced during Phase 1 Test #5 of HPQ Silica Polvere Inc.’s (HSPI) [2] pilot-scale FSR:

1. Display morphological characteristics consistent with commercial-grade fumed silica previously produced at lab scale.
2. Reflect improvements in particle structure and consistency following process optimizations implemented after Test #4, and
3. Indicate that ongoing enhancements to the reactor process are likely to achieve lab-scale surface area performance at the pilot level.

This latest data builds on the success of previous trials and further validates HPQ’s transition from small-batch lab production to semi-continuous pilot-scale manufacturing.

“These SEM results are a strong technical validation of our Fumed Silica Reactor’s scalability,” said Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO of HPQ Silicon and HPQ Silica Polvere Inc. “They show we’re not only reproducing the lab-scale properties at a larger scale, but we’re doing so with improved process control and material quality. This sets the stage for Phase 2, where we aim to match—and eventually surpass—the performance of conventional commercial fumed silica, while doing it more cleanly, efficiently, and with fewer emissions.”

WHAT’S NEXT: PHASE 2 AND COMMERCIAL TARGETING

Phase 2 testing is scheduled to begin in early August 2025 and will focus on replicating and validating the surface area metrics achieved at lab scale. This is a critical step in preparing for sample qualification with commercial partners and in supporting ongoing discussions with off-takers.

The FSR project aims to develop a new generation of low-carbon, plasma-based fumed silica production. Traditional methods rely on high-temperature flame hydrolysis of silicon tetrachloride (SiCl₄), a process that generates significant CO₂ and chlorine byproducts. In contrast, HPQ’s plasma-based approach utilizes quartz as a feedstock, thereby eliminating toxic reagents and significantly reducing environmental impact.

With global demand for fumed silica projected to reach US$ 3.54 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 7.46% [3], HPQ’s innovative process is poised to provide a cleaner, cost-effective, and scalable alternative for industries such as batteries, sealants, construction materials, and personal care.

---

REFERENCE SOURCES
[1] Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis done by leading global fumed silica manufacturer (“LGFSM”).
[2] A wholly owned subsidiary of HPQ Silicon Inc., when technology supplier PyroGenesis announced its intention to exercise its option to acquire a 50% stake in HSPI in May 2024.
[3] EXACTITUDE CONSULTANCY: Fumed Silica Market by Type (Hydrophobic, Hydrophilic), by Application (Paints and Coatings, Adhesives and Sealants, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Food and Beverages, Gel batteries, Lighting) and Region, Global trends and forecast from 2023 to 2029.