08:17 AM EDT, 04/24/2024 (MT Newswires) -- PyroGenesis Canada ( PYRGF ) , which makes plasma processes geared to reducing greenhouse gases, on Wednesday said it signed a contract with one of the world's five largest steelmakers to assess whether PyroGenesis' fully electric plasma torches can be used in the client's manufacturing facilities.

The client will test PyroGenesis' torches as a primary heat source in the steelmaking process, specifically during the production of direct reduced iron (DRI) for use in electric arc furnaces (EAF). PyroGenesis didn't name the client, but did say it is an overseas entity with manufacturing facilities on five continents.

The project agreement outlines the initial steps for providing plasma-specific data and analysis in support of the client's energy-transition goals. The first step is a feasibility study to gather initial data for evaluating the potential use of plasma in the client's factories as a process heating source for the DRI process. The study, which began this month, will last about 60 days.

"Combined with the advances we are making in developing a patented plasma solution for use in iron ore pelletization, the project announced today represents yet another example of the fast-growing shift taking place across multiple heavy industries which are all being challenged to decarbonize," P. Peter Pascali, president and chief executive of PyroGenesis, said in a statement. "Steelmaking is an industry where we continue to make inroads where, obviously, the potential is enormous."