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Titaniferous Minerals
Ilmenite, rutile and to a lesser extent leucoxene are the sources of titanium dioxide (TiO2).
TiO2 is a white powder with brilliant whiteness, high opacity, tremendous covering power and resistance to colour change. The major use of TiO2 is in coatings whilst the plastic, printing, inks and paper industries are large consumers. Food colourings, fabric delustering agents, sunscreens and cosmetics form part of the wide customer base.
Ilmenite is consumed as a primary feedstock in both sulphate route and chloride route pigment production and in the manufacture of titanium slags and synthetic rutile which in turn are consumed in the manufacture of white pigment.
A large amount of rutile is used in the pigment and welding industries. Rutile is also used to make titanium metal which is light, strong and ideal for aircraft component manufacture, golf clubs, racing cycles and other sports equipment. Titanium metal is highly resistant to corrosion, an important quality for specialised uses like surgical implants and water desalination plants. New technology for production of titanium metal is being developed which is likely to increase usage.
Leucoxene is also used for welding electrodes and paint pigments. Each year approximately 93% of all titaniferous minerals produced are consumed by the global TiO2 pigment industry.
Zircon
Zircon is a key raw material used in the production of opacifiers, glazes and frits, floor and decorative tiles, sanitary ware, glass and steel refractories, metal castings and specialised glass.
Consumption of zircon products in the manufacture of faceplates for TV monitors and computer screens continues to increase, particularly in developing countries.
The increased use of zirconium chemicals and zirconia in various applications continues with China being in the forefront of new production facilities to service these industries. Recently announced construction of additional nuclear power stations in China and South Korea will create continued demand for zirconium metal in this very specialised market.
The current driving force in zircon demand is both in China and India where the various consuming industries have expanded across the board, increasing usage to the extent that global demand now exceeds global production capacity. A rundown of stock levels both in producer and consumer hands has created a severe shortage of material to the extent that some industries have been required to close. This imbalance will continue to exist until the arrival of new production sources, currently planned to come on line in 2006.
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