Industrial minerals: classification, markets, geology and exploration

摘要

A new classification for industrial minerals based on their markets has the following categories: bulk minerals within (A1) or outside (A2) a vertically integrated industry; national or regional commodities (B): internationally traded commodities (C); dual purpose metal ores (D); and, high added-value products (E). The geologist's role in the exploration and assessment of industrial minerals differs for each category. Homogeneity of the resource is important for A1, A2 and B, and they are found in strata which occur quite commonly. Resources in C have a more complex geology, and commercial deposits are much less common. Detailed geological mapping and a detailed understanding of geological processes are necessary in exploration and assessing these deposits. Metal ores (D) need special properties to be industrial minerals.