Exterra Secures $600,000 in Funding for Asbestos Residue Valorization Efforts

Exterra Carbon Solutions (Exterra) has received financial support of $600,000 from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests (MRNF). This valuable aid will support a sustainable development research and innovation project related to asbestos mining residues (AMR).

The project’s main objective is to optimize and validate the performance of a pre-commercial phase process for extracting nickel and cobalt, critical and strategic minerals (CSM), from AMR originating from the Estrie and Chaudière-Appalaches regions. This innovative process also allows for carbon sequestration, thus contributing to the fight against climate change.

The project’s success could support investment efforts for constructing a commercial plant planned for 2028. Quebec would become one of the first producers of advanced battery materials for electric vehicles from asbestos mining residues. Additionally, the province would have the potential to develop one of the shortest value chains for nickel intended for transportation electrification.

Exterra thanks the Government of Quebec and the Minister of Natural Resources and Forests, Ms. Maïté Blanchette Vézina, for this financial support granted under the Mining Research and Innovation Support Program (PARIDM), as well as strategic partners and the cities of Thetford Mines and Val-des-Sources for their commitment and dedication.

Link to the official press release from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests (in French only)