The description in the patent is the process used by FMC that...

The description in the patent is the process used by FMC that requires some pre-concentration of the brines before adsorption in the hydrated alumina columns.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the FMC patent, even if expired, is still FMC’s intellectual property, an area that may create conflict if someone else who was associated with them try to use this technology.

The pictures of the AGY Pilot Plant, the process description, the operating costs and the capital expenditure detailed in the PEA, all point to a more conventional fractional crystallization, perhaps with improvements in magnesium separation and product precipitation and purification.

All of the above does not reflect in the ability of AGY to have a viable project.