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Chapter E: History and Overview of the U.S. Diatomite Mining Industry, with Emphasis on the Western United States

Bulletin 2209-E
By:  and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/b2209E

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Abstract

The United States is the largest producer and consumer of diatomite in the world. In 2001, the United States produced about a third of the estimated global production of 1.95 million metric tons (Mt) of diatomite (Dolley, 2003). In any given year, the United States accounts for at least 50 percent of all the diatomite exported in the world (Roskill, 1994). Seven diatomite companies operating in the United States produce diatomite in various grades for a range of applications, including filtration, absorbents, fillers, insulation, and cement manufacture. Economic deposits of diatomite within the United States depend on variations in the physical and chemical properties between and within deposits, potential end uses, and proximity to suitable markets. On the basis of historical production figures, estimated U.S. diatomite-production capacity is currently about 800,000 metric tons per year (t/yr).

Suggested Citation

Moyle, P.R., and Dolley, T.P., 2003, Chapter E: History and Overview of the U.S. Diatomite Mining Industry, with Emphasis on the Western United States (Version 1.0): U.S. Geological Survey Bulletin 2209, iii, 8 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/b2209E.

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Chapter E: History and Overview of the U.S. Diatomite Mining Industry, with Emphasis on the Western United States
Series title Bulletin
Series number 2209
Chapter E
DOI 10.3133/b2209E
Edition Version 1.0
Year Published 2003
Language ENGLISH
Contributing office(s) Western Mineral Resources
Description iii, 8 p.
Larger Work Type Report
Larger Work Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Larger Work Title Contributions to Industrial-Minerals Research
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Additional publication details