Boris Chubukov – Low-Cost Magnesium

With Big Blue Technologies, Boris Chubukova is producing magnesium metal and aluminates from abundant domestic ores to strengthen the U.S. supply of critical minerals for cement and refractory applications.

Today, most global magnesium production comes from China using the Pidgeon process, a carbon-intensive method that limits supply chain resilience. Despite abundant magnesium resources in the United States, there is currently no economically viable domestic process for producing primary magnesium metal.

Big Blue Technologies' process can alleviate the reliance on imports of magnesium metal and secure supply for critical manufacturing of aluminum alloys, light-weight automotive and aerospace magnesium parts, titanium smelting, and defense counter-measure flares. 

Current magnesium production is challenged by high material, energy, and labor costs. Big Blue Technologies' process improves economics by co-producing magnesium metal and calcium aluminate, creating additional product value compared with conventional production methods. Automated smelting reduces the labor demand, and the electrified aluminothermic chemistry results in the lowest energy demanding process.

Status

Prototype, commercially ready

Industry

Critical minerals

Potential Markets

• Aluminum alloy and sheet production
• Magnesium casting and extrusion
• High-performance alloys and powder for countermeasure flares in defense applications

Looking For

• Industry mentors
• Funding
• Strategic partnerships
• Subject matter experts
• Employment referrals
• Project financing
• Commercial site