Phosphorite, also known as phosphate rock, is a valuable but non-renewable resource that has been mined and utilized since ancient times. Phosphorite usually occurs as small, microscopic crystals, and can be found in sedimentary rocks, volcanic ash, and other deposits. Its main uses include agricultural fertilizers, animal feeds, and pharmaceuticals.
Phosphorite is a sedimentary rock that is primarily composed of phosphate minerals. The two main minerals that can be found in phosphorite are apatite and calcite. Apatite is a calcium phosphate mineral that is usually dark in color, while calcite is usually white. Other less common minerals found in phosphorite are dolomite, feldspar, and muscovite.
In order to extract and process phosphorite, it must first be mined from the ore deposits. After the mining process, the extracted phosphate rock is then crushed and milled into a fine powder. The extracted phosphate rock is then fed into rotary kilns for calcination. During the calcination process, the ore is heated and reacted with sulfuric acid, producing anhydrous phosphoric acid, commonly known as APA.
The produced APA then undergoes several steps before it can be used as fertilizer. First, it is reacted with a base, such as ammonia, to create water-soluble salts. The salts can then be further reacted with another chemical, such as iron, zinc, or magnesium, to create a phosphate fertilizer with a variety of nutrient contents. These nutrient contents depend on the amounts and types of salts and chemicals used in the fertilizer production.
Phosphorite has also been used in the production of animal feed, such as poultry and pigs. The phosphate-rich powder can be added to animal feed products to increase the levels of phosphorus, calcium, manganese, and other essential minerals. It also helps the animals absorb more nutrients from the feed, thus improving their growth and overall health.
In addition, phosphorite is used in the production of various pharmaceuticals. For example, it is used in the production of vitamin B12 supplements, since it is a rich source of this essential nutrient. Phosphorite can also be used in the production of anticancer drugs, such as the drug cismaplast, which consists of calcium phosphate particles.
It is estimated that approximately 93% of the global phosphate reserves are found in Morocco, China, and the United States. It is also estimated that approximately 42% of the world’s phosphate rock is used in agricultural fertilizers, while another 23% is used in animal feeds. Currently, the total global annual production of phosphorite is around 110 million tons.
In conclusion, phosphorite is an important non-renewable resource that is essential for the production of agricultural fertilizers, animal feeds, and pharmaceuticals. It is estimated that the worlds reserves of phosphorite could be exhausted within the next few decades. Therefore, it is essential that we use this resource responsibly and ensure that it is managed sustainably in order to protect our planet and its inhabitants.
