Feldspar

Feldspar is the name given to a group of minerals distinguished by the presence of alumina and silica (SiO2) in their chemistry. This group includes aluminium silicates of soda, potassium, or lime. It is the single most abundant mineral group on Earth. They account for an estimated 60% of exposed rocks, as well as soils, clays, and other unconsolidated sediments, and are principal components in rock classification schemes. Most of the products we use on a daily basis are made with feldspar: glass for drinking, glass for protection, fibreglass for insulation, the floor tiles and shower basins in our bathrooms, and the tableware from which we eat.

Moreover, the two properties which make feldspars useful for downstream industries are their alkali and alumina content. Feldspars play an important role as fluxing agents in ceramics and glass applications, and also are used as functional fillers in the paint, plastic, rubber and adhesive industries. The glass & ceramic industries are the major consumers of feldspar. This makes it a very essential mineral in our day-to-day life.