Non-Metallic Resources CollectionThe United States is extremely fortunate to have been blessed with
a wide variety and large quantity of non-metallic natural resources. The rocks and
minerals listed here generally have a low place value and a low unit value. A low unit
value refers to the cost of the rock or mineral depending on its rarity. Place value
refers to the cost of transporting the rock or mineral to its intended use.
| 1. |
BENTONITE: Absorbent, filler in paper,
cosmetics, drilling fluids |
| 2. |
FLUORITE: Flux in the making of steel,
opalescent glass, making of hydrofluric acid. |
| 3. |
PUMICE: Light weight concrete, abrasive |
| 4. |
KAOLINITE: China, filler for paper, rubber,
medicines, and cosmetics |
| 5. |
SANDSTONE: Dimension stone, aggregate |
| 6. |
SULFUR: Fertilizer, petroleum industry,
synthetics |
| 7. |
LIMESTONE: Building stone, cement, plaster,
fertilizer |
| 8. |
HALITE: Glass, bleaches, soaps, food
processing |
| 9. |
SILICA SAND: Ceramics, refractories |
| 10. |
MARBLE: Building stone, cemetery monuments |
| 11. |
SHALE: Ceramics, brick, cement, plaster |
| 12. |
ALABASTER: Plaster, drywall, cement |
| 13. |
SLATE: Roofing, flooring, blackboards |
| 14. |
GRAPHITE: Foundry facings, refractories,
steel making |
15.
|
DOLOMITE: Aggregate, cement
|
|