Minago to be Canada’s First Producer of Magnesium
Minago Development GP Inc. (Minago), has signed a licensing agreement granting it exclusive rights in Canada to Big Blue Technologies’ (BBT) advanced magnesium extraction process, including rights to sell magnesium using the technology in Canada and internationally.
BBT’s aluminothermic reduction (ATR) method is the most cost-effective and energy-efficient magnesium extraction technology available today. It delivers up to 98 percent lower carbon emissions than conventional processes and has the potential to become carbon-negative with future carbon-capture integration on dolomite calcination.
Minago will apply this technology to dolomite found above the Minago nickel/PGM deposit. Roughly 111 million tonnes of dolomite containing about 12 percent magnesium will be quarried as part of the broader mining operation, enabling the production of magnesium without additional mining or waste generation.
Big Blue Technologies, Inc. joins the Minago team at the Central Canada Mineral Exploration Convention holding a large piece of pure magnesium processed from dolomite at Minago Projects quarry. Left to Right: Jim Rondeau, Dan Ingalls, John Giavedoni, Doug Ramsey, Boris Chubukov (BBT), Felix Chan, Robert Van Drunen, Aaron Palumbo (BBT) - Nov. 2025
Chief Larson Anderson of Norway House Cree Nation commented that “Minago’s licensing of the BBT technology will make Manitoba the centre of primary magnesium metal production in Canada and does this with the most energy efficient and environmentally sustainable technology available globally. NHCN purchased the Minago project just over one year ago to advance its plan to develop local natural resources, while protecting the land, water, and air, and to develop significant employment opportunities for the people living in the region. This project will provide critical minerals for Canada, break the cycle of poverty for First Nation residents, and create a new roadmap for resource development in Canada.”
Dr. Aaron Palumbo, CEO of Big Blue Technologies, said that “We are proud to partner with Minago Development LP Inc., on a project that sets a new global standard for clean magnesium production. Minago’s leadership and commitment to sustainable resource development make them the ideal partner to bring our technology to commercial scale. Together, we are building a resilient North American magnesium supply chain, proving that critical minerals can be produced safely, economically, and sustainably.”