Overview
- Vema Hydrogen and First Atlantic Nickel & Cobalt have executed a non‑binding letter of intent proposing a 50/50 joint venture to develop Engineered Mineral Hydrogen (EMH) at the 30‑kilometre Pipestone XL ultramafic belt in central Newfoundland.
- Vema reported laboratory tests at its Orléans facility that recorded hydrogen generation from Pipestone rock using stimulated serpentinization, the geochemical process EMH relies on to release H2 from iron‑rich ultramafic rock.
- The partners plan to co‑locate EMH with First Atlantic’s awaruite nickel‑cobalt program so on‑site hydrogen could supply mine operations and attract nearby industries that use clean hydrogen for fuels or ammonia production.
- The LOI is non‑binding and the project remains early stage, dependent on definitive agreements, permits, financing, technical validation at commercial scale and other regulatory and commercial approvals.
- Vema intends to leverage its Thetford EMH pilot in Quebec while First Atlantic points to awaruite’s high nickel content and sulfur‑free, magnetic properties — factors the U.S. Geological Survey has noted could simplify processing and lower environmental risks.