Raw copper ore is a mineral that contains unprocessed copper. It typically appears in the form of minerals such as chalcopyrite, bornite, and malachite. Copper in the ore is usually extracted and processed through metallurgical methods to separate pure copper, which is used in various industries.
Phosphate ore, also known as phosphorite ore, is a type of sedimentary rock rich in calcium phosphate minerals. The main component of this ore is Ca₃(PO₄)₂, with apatite content ranging from 33% to 50%.
Applications of phosphate ore:
- Fertilizer production: The most common use, providing phosphorus for crops.
- Chemical processing: The ore can be refined to produce phosphoric acid, an important industrial chemical.
- Animal feed production: Some compounds derived from phosphate ore are used to supplement minerals for livestock.
Additionally, phosphate ore mining can have environmental impacts, such as soil erosion, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Therefore, responsible mining management is essential.
Myanmar is an important supplier of antimony ore to the global market, primarily exporting to China. The country's antimony deposits are mainly found in quartz-stibnite veins formed due to tectonic activity, particularly the collision between the Indian and Eurasian continental plates. The total estimated reserves of antimony in Myanmar are approximately one million long tons.
Several mining and processing companies in Myanmar have the capability to produce high-purity antimony, up to 99.65%. Antimony products are widely used in alloy manufacturing, flame retardants, and various industrial applications
Thailand has a growing antimony market, with primary products including antimony metal ingots, antimony trioxide, antimony pentoxide, and antimony alloys. Antimony in Thailand is widely used in flame retardants, lead-acid batteries, alloy enhancers, fiberglass composites, and catalysts.
Thailand’s antimony market is expanding due to rising industrial demand, particularly in electronics, automotive components, and construction materials. However, the industry also faces challenges related to environmental regulations and supply fluctuations
Fluorite is found in many places around the world, but the largest deposits are concentrated in South Africa, Mexico, and China. South Africa has the world's largest untapped fluorspar reserves, offering significant potential for mining development. Additionally, Australia has some notable fluorite mines, such as Princess Mine in Tasmania and Monakoff Mine in Queensland.