MONTREAL, Feb. 19, 2026
HPQ Silicon Inc. (TSX-V:HPQ, OTCQB:HPQFF, FRA:O08), a pioneer in advanced materials and critical process development, has announced that its subsidiary, HPQ Silica Polvere Inc. (HSPI), has secured its first purchase order for 50 kilograms of fumed silica. This order comes from a strategic industrial partner previously identified on February 12, 2026.
The fumed silica was produced using technology from HSPI’s supplier, PyroGenesis Inc., at the Fumed Silica Reactor (FSR) pilot plant. The material is currently being readied for delivery to the customer for advanced qualification testing.
Extended Production and Data Collection
To fulfill this order, the FSR operated in semi-continuous mode, extending production runs beyond previous test campaigns. These prolonged operations generated essential process and engineering data to support scale-up modeling and design parameters for the anticipated 1,000 tonne-per-year facility outlined in the non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU).
“This purchase order represents a significant operational milestone,” stated Bernard Tourillon, Chairman, President, and CEO of both HPQ Silicon Inc. and HSPI. “It illustrates our pilot plant's transition from technical validation to commercial engagement. The extended production runs are crucial for gathering the engineering data needed to responsibly design and mitigate risks for our proposed commercial-scale facility.”
Technical Validation and Market Readiness
Progress under the MOU is contingent upon successful third-party testing and validation of the fumed silica generated by the FSR pilot plant. HSPI has received results from production samples analyzed by an independent laboratory in the United States. The testing confirmed that the material meets critical specifications required for commercial applications.
The combination of independent laboratory validation and the recent purchase order indicates that the fumed silica produced using the FSR has met defined chemical and compositional benchmarks necessary for ongoing commercial development.
Industry Impact and Innovation
Fumed silica is a high-value industrial product utilized in various sectors, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food products, paints, coatings, sealants, adhesives, and construction materials. Its role as a thickening and reinforcement agent makes it vital for performance and product consistency in large global markets.
Traditional production methods often involve energy-intensive processes and centralized facilities. In contrast, the FSR technology aims to provide a plasma-based alternative using quartz (SiO₂) as its feedstock, reducing process complexity and eliminating hazardous chemical intermediates.
“Operating the FSR in extended semi-continuous mode, while meeting core material specifications, reinforces the engineering viability of this plasma-based approach,” commented P. Peter Pascali, President and CEO of PyroGenesis Inc. “These production runs are another step in proving that fumed silica can be produced more efficiently and in a modular fashion.”
Future Steps in Commercialization
The formation of the joint venture under the MOU remains subject to negotiations and the execution of definitive agreements. The parties expect to finalize these agreements by the end of Q2 2026, although there is no guarantee of forming a joint venture or achieving commercial viability.
“We are progressing systematically,” added Mr. Tourillon. “Independent validation, extended pilot production, and customer qualification testing are all essential steps before finalizing commercial commitments. Our focus is on aligning technical performance, engineering scalability, and market demand prior to moving forward.”
About HSPI and the Fumed Silica Reactor (FSR)
As HSPI's technological supplier, PyroGenesis delivers a plasma-based technology that transforms quartz (SiO₂) into commercial-grade fumed silica in a single, eco-friendly process, eliminating harmful chemicals typically used in conventional methods. The FSR produces fumed silica directly from quartz, streamlining the production process.
HPQ Silicon Inc. is a Quebec-based industrial issuer (TSX-V: HPQ) dedicated to innovation in advanced materials and critical process development. Partnering with Novacium, HPQ is advancing next-generation silicon-based anode materials for batteries and commercializing its ENDURA+ lithium-ion cells while pursuing clean-hydrogen and waste-to-energy technologies.
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