Altair Announces Second Series Interim Coal Test Results with the Centrifugal Jig.

CODY, Wyo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 1, 1997-- (Alberta Stock Exchange:AIL, NASDAQ:ALTIF) Altair International Inc. today announced interim results from a second series of fine coal wash tests being conducted with its Centrifugal Jig at Southern Illinois University (SIU) in conjunction with a major U.S. coal producer.

Altair's second series of coal tests is being assessed. Tests were based on Pittsburgh no. 8 Seam coal, a high sulphur coal containing about 30 percent ash. Coal particle sizes ranged from 28 mesh (0.590 mm) to less than 325 mesh (0.044 mm) and are classified as "coal fines." A Design Expert computer program was used to establish optimum process settings for jig operation.

Approximately 40 separate tests, each utilizing distinct combinations of Centrifugal Jig operating variables, were run to provide basic information for the process optimization program. Using the design program suggested setting, seven additional tests were run. The best test yielded combustible recovery of 82 percent, ash rejection of 83 percent and product ash of 8.5 percent.

"The Centrifugal Jig is effecting remarkable ash separations," said Mr. Patrick Costin, Vice President of Altair International. "In this instance, the coal was cleaned to saleable product specifications."

Washability analyzes are being conducted on material from three selected coal test. Results will describe separation efficiency achieved for discrete particle size ranges. This analytical work will take six weeks to complete and results will be reported as meaningful interpretations are made.

In coal production, approximately 35 percent of U.S. coal is "washed," which increases its thermal value and reduces the amount of harmful sulfur which is emitted to the atmosphere on burning. Current washing methods discard some fine coal of which perhaps 50 percent may be effectively treated with the Centrifugal Jig.

Altair is in the development stage of commercializing its state- of-the-art technology, the Centrifugal Jig, which recovers extremely fine, heavy particulate matter using a combination of a mechanical jig and centrifugal force. Potential applications include gold/mineral recovery, coal cleaning and environmental remediation.

Note: News releases, 10K and other information on Altair can be accessed at no charge at Web Site http://www.ctaonline.com/ir/aig.htm on the Internet.

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CONTACT: Carl Thompson Associates

Jenny Herring, 303/494-5472

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Carl Thompson Associates

Carl Thompson, 303/494-5472

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Altair International Inc.

Dr. William Long, 307/587-8245