The Western Hemisphere's only primary source of platinum and palladium began operating early last year. The Stillwater Project, located in south-central Montana, is a partnership consisting of Chevron Resources Company, Manvilie Corporation, and LAC Minerals. Numerous efforts since the mid-part of the last century have been made to develop and commercialize the various metals of the Stillwater Complex. At various times, copper, nickel, and chromium have been produced. The current activity, however, is directed at the platinum group metals.
On an annualized basis, the project will produce approximately 25,000 ounces of platinum and 75,000 ounces of palladium. The project currently produces a concentrate containing approximately 40 ounces of PGM's per ton which is shipped to Western Europe where it is converted into sponge metal. Already, planning is underway for the eventual increase in production which should be attained by 1990.