said April 11 thatits Hectatone Inc. unit signed a non-exclusive memorandum of understanding to forma strategic alliance with private firm TOLSA SA, with a view to collectively pursuegrowth opportunities in the global clay minerals markets.

The MOU contemplatesa number of areas of collaboration, including a planned long-term supply agreementof Hectatone's hectorite clay from its Nevada resource to TOLSA for the manufactureof high purity hectorite-based products.

TOLSA has alreadyevaluated lab samples of Hectatone's hectorite clay and a bulk sample is scheduledto be trialed in TOLSA's pilot facility in Spain this month.

According toHectatone President and CEO Frank Wright Jr., the company continues to aggressivelypursue strategic partnerships to achieve growth and broaden its products and markets.