Tag: Mining

Over 80% of global sodium bicarbonate production originates from the United States, Western Europe, and Japan. Its primary source is a mineral deposit left behind by ancient evaporated lakes, though it can also be created synthetically. This versatile chemical is integral to countless household and industrial applications, from baking and cleaning to pharmaceutical and agricultural uses.

The universe's sixth most common element, iron, is concentrated primarily in one place, though it's not where you might expect. Determining *where is there the most iron* depends on whether you're considering the cosmos, our planet's interior, or the accessible crust.

According to the World Steel Association, over 2.5 billion metric tons of iron ore were produced globally in 2023, requiring a vast and complex transportation network. So, who transports iron and its many byproducts throughout this intricate supply chain? It’s a job handled by a diverse array of specialized logistics providers, mining companies, and shipping firms using a multi-modal approach to move raw materials and finished goods efficiently across continents.

Over 30 different minerals are used to create a single mobile phone, illustrating just one of the countless ways in which minerals affect society and shape our daily lives. These natural resources are the hidden foundation of our technological advancements, economic systems, and even our biological functions. From the microchip to the food on our plates, our civilization is built upon the extraction and use of minerals.

According to a 2022 review of 43 studies, iron deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency globally, affecting about 30% of the world's population. A varied, whole-food diet is the most effective and safest way to obtain minerals, providing a complex synergy of nutrients that supplements cannot fully replicate. While mining extracts raw minerals from the earth, our bodies absorb essential minerals from the plants and animals we consume, making dietary intake the superior method for human health.

As the 22nd most abundant element in the Earth's crust, vanadium is widely distributed but rarely found in its pure metallic form. This versatile transition metal is most commonly extracted from various mineral ores, fossil fuel deposits, and recycled industrial materials around the globe.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the Earth's crust is composed of about 5% iron, but the question of what produces the most iron requires a look beyond our planet's geology. The answer involves both explosive cosmic events and massive industrial efforts on Earth.

Over 250 million metric tonnes of salt are produced globally each year, yet only a small fraction is used for food consumption. So, with such a massive annual demand, what is the main source of salt that supplies our industrial and culinary needs?

Over 70% of the world's known phosphate rock reserves are held by Morocco and Western Sahara, making it the most significant single location for this vital resource. Beyond this dominant player, phosphates are most commonly found across numerous other regions, primarily in ancient marine sedimentary deposits that have been mined for over a century for their use in fertilizers and industrial products.

An estimated 1.4 million kg of minerals are used by one person over their lifetime, highlighting their essential role in modern society. While no single "main use" can be identified, minerals are fundamental raw materials for virtually every industry, from sophisticated electronics to basic construction.