Quartz is one of the most common minerals in the Earth's crust and plays a critical role in many industries, including glass, electronics, and construction. So how is this valuable mineral extracted? In this blog, we explore the technical processes of quartz mining, its environmental impacts, and the situation in Türkiye.

1. What is Quartz and Where is it Used?

Quartz (SiO₂) is a hard mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms. Its main uses:

• Glass Production: Quartz sand is the raw material of glass.
• Electronic: Used in semiconductors and solar panels.
• Construction: On concrete, ceramic and decorative surfaces.
• Metallurgy: Necessary for silicon production.

2. Discovery of Quartz Ore Deposits

Quartz is usually found in granite, sandstone or quartz veins. To detect mineral deposits, follow these steps:

• Geological MappingPotential areas are determined using satellite images and topographic maps.
• Field Sampling: Soil and rock samples are taken and the SiO₂ ratio is analyzed in the laboratory (+ purity is sought).
• Reserve Calculation: The size and depth of the bed are measured by drilling.

3. Quartz Extraction Methods

A. Open Pit Mining

It is preferred for near-surface (<100 m) quartz deposits.

1. Cover Scraping: The upper soil and rock layer is removed with construction machinery.
2. Blasting: Controlled explosives are used to break up the rock mass.
3. Loading and Transporting: It is transported to the quartz ore processing plant by excavators and trucks.

B. Underground Mining

Used for deep beds (>100 m).

• Tunneling: The ore is reached through horizontal galleries.
• Room and Pillar Method: Heels are left to support the ceiling when mining ore blocks.

4. Quartz Processing Processes

Raw quartz is purified from impurities (clay, iron oxide) and made ready for use:

1. Crushing and Screening: It is reduced to 2-5 cm size with jaw crushers.
2. Washing: Washed with water to remove clay and dust.
3. Magnetic Separation: Particles containing iron are removed with magnets.
4. Chemical Treatment: Metal oxides are cleaned with acid leaching (HCl or HF).
5. Drying and Classification: Moisture is removed and separated according to grain size.

5. Environmental Impacts and Sustainable Solutions

• Soil Erosion: Open pits destroy vegetation.
  Solution: Afforestation of mining areas.
• Water PollutionChemical wastes may mix with groundwater.
  Solution: Closed circuit water systems and treatment plants.
• Dust Emission: Causes respiratory problems.
  Solution: Dust suppression systems and perimeter walls.

6. Quartz Mining in Türkiye

• ReservesRich deposits are found in Muğla, Aydın, Kırşehir and Balıkesir.
• Production: Among the top 10 in the world rankings with an annual quartz sand production of 2.5 million tons.
• Export: Major buyers are Germany, China and Italy.

7. Major Manufacturers Worldwide

1. USA: Beds in Arkansas and California.
2. Brazil: High purity quartz crystals.
3. India: Quartz sand production for the glass industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How profitable is quartz mining?
A: The cost of 1 ton of processed quartz is 50-100$, and the selling price is 200-500$.

Q: Is quartz harmful to human health?
A: Inhalation of dust poses a risk of silicosis. Therefore, workers are required to wear masks.

Q: Can quartz be produced artificially?
A: Yes, but not as economical as natural quartz.

Conclusion

Quartz mining is becoming more efficient and environmentally friendly with technological developments. Türkiye's potential in this field can enable it to stand out in the global market with the right investments.

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