Canadian company Sonic Environmental Solutions announced yesterday it had formed a new subsidiary, Oil Sands Sonoprocess Solutions, to apply its technology to the potential energy resource.

The company’s patented Sonoprocess sonic generators have proven useful in separating contaminants from sludges and slurries in a number of different applications – and similar ultrasound technology has shown promise in removing mercury from river sediment.

SES chief executive Adam Sumel said the new subsidiary would provide clarity for end-users and investors, differentiating between its research and development in the oil sands industry and its commercial environmental remediation activities.

SES vice-president Dr James Hill will lead Oil Sands Sonoprocess Solutions, which will build its own focused core team as required.

The subsidiary is currently negotiating with active participants in the oil sands industry to further define development priorities with a view to piloting a new Sonoprocess application.