MONTREAL - Argex Titanium Inc. (Argex) has hired Canadian engineering services firm GENIVAR Inc. to conduct a feasibility study on the economic viability of a titanium dioxide (TiO₂) first-module production facility. Citing the potential of the company's CTL process, both GENIVAR and Argex have agreed to mutual terms of exclusivity for engineering services related to the development and construction of TiO₂ processing plant projects using this patented process. Argex has also appointed Aecom, a global provider of professional and industrial services, to conduct an environmental study for Argex and to accompany it in obtaining the required environmental permits.

The studies follow positive results from a TiO₂ grade sensitivity study conducted earlier this year, which indicated improved project economics using commercially available sulfate grade ilmenite feedstock, and a recent breakthrough in the Argex CTL hydrometallurgical process.

Argex currently operates a pilot plant in Mississauga, Ontario, where its CTL process runs continuously.