Fluorite, Gambog and Cerium Mines
Fluorite, Gambog and Cerium are minerals which are mined for practical and scientific purposes. Fluorite is probably the most commonly known mineral, which is primarily used in industrial applications. It is a very soft, colorful mineral which is composed of calcium fluoride. It is often used for metallurgical flux, for making hydrofluoric acid, and for pottery glazes. Furthermore, it is a popular collector’s item as it can be fluorescent.
Gambog is an extremely durable mineral that is found in barium sulfates. The exact composition of gambog varies depending on the deposit, though it usually contains barium, strontium, sulfuryl and chlorides. The major use of this mineral is in batteries and other electronics, as the high resistivity of the compound limits the electrical current. It is also used as a pigment in food, such as soy sauce, in making glass and in some ceramics.
Cerium is a rare-earth element that is extremely important in many industrial and technological areas. The most common use of this mineral is in catalytic converters, as it has the ability to reduce emissions which are harmful to the environment. It is also used in alloys which can improve the strength, corrosion resistance and other properties of the metal. Furthermore, cerium is used in producing fuel cells, which are devices that produce electricity from hydrocarbons, such as natural gas and diesel.
Collectively, these three minerals are very important in enabling industrial processes and products. Fluorite is most commonly used to reduce the amount of energy used in manufacturing and production processes. Gambog is an invaluable mineral for electrical and electronics applications. And finally, cerium is a critical element for reducing emissions and producing clean energy. All of these minerals need to be mined in a careful manner so that they can be used for the benefit of mankind.
