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Market commentary & articles

Are you on the Magnesia Map? NEW 2024 EDITION IN PREPARATION

Magnesia World Sources Map®
Primary world sources & production capacity of key magnesia raw materials
Magnesite | Caustic calcined magnesia | Dead burned magnesia | Fused magnesia | Magnesium hydroxide | Brucite | Huntite | Dunite | Olivine | Kieserite
Distributed to attendees at all […]

Squaring the Circle: Challenges & opportunities in recycling refractory minerals

“Squaring the circle” is a problem in geometry that was first proposed in Greek mathematics. The expression “squaring the circle” is also sometimes used as a metaphor for trying to do the “impossible”, and can […]

Let IMFORMED bring the mineral markets together for you in 2024

REFRACTORIES | RECYCLING | MAGNESIA | BARITE | OILFIELD | FLUORINE | CHINA | SALT
As IMFORMED nears its ninth anniversary, Mike and Ismene would like to thank all our customers, sponsors, friends, and families for their unstinting […]

Oilfield minerals outlook

Review of Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum 2023, Houston, 9-11 May
And a new format announced for 2024!
Industrial minerals remain essential ingredients to all oil and gas drilling operations. While the large volume workhorse minerals such […]

Salt market meets in Namibia!

Salt Forum 2023 takes place in Swakopmund
A spectacular week concluded earlier in November discussing salt supply and demand amid networking with the world’s leading players at IMFORMED’s Salt Forum 2023, Swakopmund, 6-9 November.
This was just […]

Fluorine Forum 2023 breaks records in Mandelieu-La-Napoule

IMFORMED’s largest event to date for the global fluorine raw materials market last week saw 200 attendees network and listen to a packed programme of expert speakers at Fluorine Forum 2023, at the Pullman Cannes […]

MFG diversifies into refractory market supplying chromite & magnesia with new branch MFG Materia

Raw material producer and trader to the foundry and steel industry Metall-und Ferrolegierungsgesellschaft mbH Hafner, Blondin &Tidou (MFG), based in Meerbusch, Germany, has diversified into supplying chromite and refractory raw materials by launching a new […]

Refractories Feast in Frankfurt!

Big thanks to the UNITECR 2023 organisers for putting on a terrific show last week.

It was fabulous to meet our customers, contacts, & make new friends from the refractories world.

IMFORMED thanks all those who stopped […]

Hot dates for hot topics in refractories

CALL FOR PAPERS | SPONSORSHIP & EXHIBIT OPPORTUNITIES

 
XII European Congress of Refractory Raw Materials, Machinery & Installation
Meliá Lebreros, Seville, 13-14 March 2024
Co-organised by ANFRE, Spain (National Association of Manufacturers of Refractories, Materials and Related Services) […]

Magnesia Amore at Maggiore | Supply & Market Outlook

Review of MagForum 2023, Baveno, Italy
The shores of beautiful Lake Maggiore at Baveno hosted the largest and most successful MagForum to date. Some 230 international attendees from across the supply chain of the magnesia raw […]

Dr Ian Wilson 1943 – 2023

It is with great sadness that we report the recent passing of our great friend, mentor, and worldly industrial mineral geologist Dr Ian Wilson in mid-June 2023, just weeks away from his 80th birthday.

Without a […]

Industrial Minerals Back to Basics: What? Why? How?

Workshop at 2023 AGM of Benchmark Mineral Intelligence
Sometimes you’ve just gotta get back to basics to properly understand the principles of the industrial minerals business and how it functions.

IMFORMED was offered the opportunity to do […]

Industrial Minerals Review 2022-23: Getting greener | Sourcing smarter

My introduction to last year’s IM Annual Review of Mining Engineering concluded with a pointer to the challenges facing the industrial minerals sector in developing and employing carbon emissions reduction, energy conservation, and recycling practices for a […]

Dusseldorf Daze! GIFA-METEC 2023

A hot, intense, but fabulous time last week networking at GIFA-METEC 2023, catching up with our many clients and contacts, and making new friends in the industrial minerals, refractory, foundry, metallurgy, & trading markets.
We were especially pleased […]

Fluorspar new sources go underground for the battery charge

Projects in Mongolia & Germany | Updates from USA, Canada, Italy, Kenya, Australia
World fluorspar production capacity remains tight, with few, if any, new production capacities ready to come on-stream any time soon. However, there are […]

Mineral recycling radiates in Dubrovnik | Mineral Recycling Forum 2023 Review

Industrial Minerals | Refractories | Li-ion Batteries | Construction Materials | Fertiliser | LIBS
Springtime in Dubrovnik? It must be time for IMFORMED’s Mineral Recycling Forum 2023!

And indeed it was, with close to 100 international delegates […]

Challenge & change in the world of speciality aluminas – the view from Almatis

IMFORMED interviews Anıl Sönmez, Chief Executive Officer, Almatis
Almatis is the market leader in speciality alumina products and solutions for the high performance refractory, ceramic, polishing and speciality markets.

In April 2023, IMFORMED interviewed Almatis CEO, Anıl […]

Salt market to grow as new sources & challenges face industry

Review of IMFORMED’s inaugural Salt Forum 2022 Hamburg
In response to market demand, IMFORMED launched its inaugural Salt Forum in Hamburg last year at the Grand Elysée Hotel, 15-17 November. And what a success it turned […]

Fluorspar market outlook | View from Vietnam

Fluorine Forum 2022 Review | Seen & Heard in Hanoi
All good things come to those who wait. And for Fluorine Forum to take place in Hanoi, Vietnam we had to wait three years, but we got […]

SME 2023 Denver spotlights minerals for the green economy

It was great to be back at the SME Annual Conference & “MINEXCHANGE” Expo in Denver after a five-year absence, catching up with friends, making new contacts, and taking the pulse of the North American […]

Mineral Market Matrix 2nd Edition 2023

OUT NOW!
IMFORMED’s unique
Mineral Market Matrix® Wall Chart
At a glance guide: which minerals for which markets
New edition March 2023

Active in the industrial minerals supply chain?
Whether exploring, financing, mining, processing, trading, distributing, transporting, developing, buying or using industrial minerals […]

Magnesia Market Review: coming out the other side stronger

Seen & Heard at MagForum 2022 Noordwijk
Last year the magnesia industry brushed off the pandemic blues by gathering for a glorious few days at Noordwijk on the Dutch coast to attend IMFORMED’s MagForum 2022, 7-9 […]

Oilfield minerals market outlook & 2022 review

Barite | Bauxite | Frac sand | Leonardite | Logistics | Sourcing | China | Morocco | Mexico
The New Year rise of oil prices should come as some reassurance to suppliers of industrial minerals to the […]

Let IMFORMED bring the mineral markets together for you in 2023

 As IMFORMED nears its eighth anniversary, Mike and Ismene would like to thank all our customers, sponsors, friends, and families for their unstinting support during 2022.
The last three years has been challenging, particularly 2020-21, and 2022 should […]

In Memoriam: David Holmes | David Delamore | Malcolm Crawford

It is with great sadness that we report on the passing of three friends and colleagues from the industrial minerals world.

Each were stalwarts of the industrial minerals business, widely respected and recognised for their individual […]

“Recycling is coming”: mineral industry gears up for supply chain evolution

Mineral Recycling Forum 2022 Dubrovnik Review | 2023? same place, same time!
If we were to talk about high drama in Dubrovnik, you would be forgiven for immediately thinking of the successful medieval fantasy TV drama […]

China refractory minerals outlook in transition

As we head towards the final quarter of 2022 and look towards 2023 and beyond, the international refractory industry is readying itself for a busy period of important international refractory meetings (ICR, Aachen; ALAFAR, Foz […]

Cofermin Chrome gets flexible in “unprecedented” market climate

Since its restructuring and new management announced in January 2021, we have been reporting on the evolution of Essen-based global mineral distributor Cofermin Group.

In this latest follow-up article we focus on the management and role […]

Salt market awaits new sources as demand grows amid Asian shortages

New sources of salt are being developed to meet the rising demand for salt worldwide. Some 330m tonnes of salt is consumed globally, with the primary markets being the chloralkali and deicing sectors.

The Asia-Pacific region […]

Canada Fluorspar: new owner & restart on the cards?

Fluorspar market awaits outcome as it readies to meet at Fluorine Forum 2022
Canada’s beleaguered newcomer to the global fluorspar supply sector, Canada Fluorspar Inc. (CFI), is awaiting news, potentially by mid-October 2022, of a positive […]

Refractory mineral trends: IMFORMED has it covered

IMFORMED was delighted and honoured to have its Refractory Raw Material World Sources Map® reproduced in the feature articles section of the August 2022 issue of the American Ceramic Society Bulletin (map details here).

The section focused on […]

UK minerals’ moment in the sun

CRM reality check, sustainability & recycling | EIG 2022 Review
IMFORMED was honoured to speak on recycling industrial minerals at last week’s 22nd Extractive Industry Geology Conference, hosted by the Camborne School of Mines at the […]

Industrial Minerals Review 2021-22

Testing times sustain market turmoil, but outlook positive
2020-21 was all about coping with COVID-19 and responding to the pandemic’s ramifications and the subsequent recovering market demand. While 2021-22 has seen a continuation of this trend, […]

Cofermin has the right “chemistry”

Last year we reported on the latest stage of evolution of global mineral distributor Cofermin Group, as it entered a new era of management in January 2021.

In this latest follow-up article we focus on the […]

Fluorine growth in batteries & semiconductors | Fluorspar supply tightens

Review of Fluorine Forum 2021 ONLINE
The global fluorine raw materials supply chain is undergoing a period of some challenge.

In addition to the widespread disruption caused by the pandemic and ongoing logistical issues, compounded by the […]

“Beyond Commodities”: Successful start for Cofermin’s new magnesia arm IMagine

Leading industrial minerals distributor Cofermin Group has strengthened its magnesia offering amid its expanding mineral portfolio by establishing a new division to specifically focus on magnesia material supply and markets.

The new arm, called IMagine, was […]

Bernhard Krüger, “King of Chromite”, celebrates his 60th work-anniversary at the sharp end

Usually all good things must come to an end, although there’s one man in the minerals business whose “good thing” continues to last, even after decades longer than most others in the industry.

On 15 May […]

First Bauxite acquires US calcination plants

US Ceramics assets add processing & logistics capabilities for refractory, proppant, & flame retardant markets
Emerging non-metallurgical bauxite producer, First Bauxite LLC (FBX), which is exploiting the Bonasika high purity gibbsitic bauxite deposit in Guyana, has […]

Oilfield minerals outlook: facing a “multi-year upcycle”?

US demand tight | International growth | Frac sand surge | Barite India & Nigeria
The oilfield market for industrial minerals – such as barite, bentonite, silica sand, calcium carbonate, graphite, and bauxite – used in […]

Industrial mineral supply disruption: Ukraine crisis

Ceramic clay supply cut off | Tile producers’ stocks running out | Graphite expansion on hold
As the Russia-Ukraine war tragically passes its 50th day, with still no end in sight, industrial mineral supply chains and markets […]

XI European Congress of Refractory Raw Materials, Barcelona 11-12 May 2022

We are delighted to announce that ANFRE, Spain (National Association of Manufacturers of Refractories, Materials and Related Services) and IMFORMED, have joined forces to present the:
XI European Congress of Refractory Raw Materials, Machinery & Installation
Hotel […]

Dragon’s dominance in decline? Refractory mineral world ponders sourcing future

Review of China Refractory Minerals Forum 2021 ONLINE
As we head towards the Chinese New Year of the Tiger (1 February 2022), it is timely to review some of the key issues influencing the supply of Chinese […]

Get back into action with IMFORMED for 2022 – Confirmed Speakers

 As IMFORMED nears its seventh anniversary, Mike and Ismene would like to thank all our customers, sponsors, friends, and families for their unstinting support during this last, and somewhat challenging, year.

May we take this opportunity to wish […]

Oilfield Minerals Outlook: Review of ONLINE Forum 2021

Oil & Gas Market | Barite | Bentonite | Pollucite/Caesium Formate | Gilsonite
While it wasn’t quite the usual fizz and excitement of our annual in-person event in Houston where we bring together the great and the […]

Fluorspar supply sources emerge: Mongolia | USA | Canada | Greenland

Being designated a “critical mineral” in the EU and more recently in the USA has certainly assisted fluorspar’s standing as an exploration target.

However, those already in the market have known for some years now that […]

New dawn for Brazilian bauxite

Bautek expands & enters refractory, abrasive, chemical markets
It is often said that timing is everything. And right now, the timing of bringing to market any new or alternative source of aluminosilicate minerals outside of China […]

Refractory Mineral Maelstrom: The heat is on | Seen & heard at ICR Aachen

China Crisis Deepens | Refra-Horn Recycling JV | Cofermin Magnesia Arm | Alumina Issues
Last week’s 64th International Refractories Colloquium held in Aachen, organised by the European Centre for Refractories gGmbH (ECREF) was a somewhat surreal […]

Magnesia markets outlook: MagForum 2021 ONLINE Review

Supply & Demand | China | CO2 Reduction | Sensor Sorting | Process Costs | Digitisation | Dolomite | Synthetic MgO | Trading | Chemical Markets
In what has proved to be another most challenging year […]

M!NERALS now one of Europe’s largest industrial mineral suppliers

Cofermin’s evolution 2: Expanding beyond a Chinese minerals focus
Securing Chinese industrial minerals supply for world markets has been a vital and growing role for mineral traders and distributors since the 1980s. And it has never […]

Forums announced for 2022 – Save the dates!

CALL FOR PAPERS | SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES | EARLY BIRD RATES
Mineral Recycling Forum 2022
28-30 March
Hilton Imperial, Dubrovnik
The latest developments in recycling industrial minerals from a range of waste sources, including tailings, refractories, slags, ash […]

Fluorine Forum 2021 ONLINE – Global Supply & Demand Trends | Networking | Confirmed Speakers

Confirmed Speakers | Early Bird Ends Monday 13 September
IMFORMED is delighted to announce confirmed speakers on key topics for Fluorine Forum 2021 ONLINE Wednesday 20 October.
Fluorspar Supply | AlF3 | Steel | Refrigerants | Semiconductors | HF […]

Industrial Minerals Review 2020-21

Responding to challenges & change
This time last year I was invited by Mining Engineering* journal to write an article as an introduction to its well-established annual review of the industrial minerals industry. I was delighted and honoured to be […]

No stone unturned

Ever sat down on the beach or just anywhere, and picked up an interesting-looking pebble, turned it over, then wondered about its colour, origins, and composition?
Well, here’s the ideal companion to that wonderful timeless pastime […]

Refractory minerals market: facing up to the future

Refractory Minerals Forum 2021 ONLINE Review
Outlook | China | India | Magnesia | Dolomite | Bauxite | Andalusite | Graphite | Chromite
As we head towards the halfway mark of what has proved to be another most […]

Cofermin evolves: talkin’ ’bout a new generation

Global minerals distributor enters new era with new management team
IMFORMED reviews Cofermin’s journey and interviews Managing Director Andreas Pabst
In its 2015 announcement of the launch of two subsidiaries, Essen-based Cofermin Rohstoffe GmbH & Co. KG quoted the US […]

Magnesia movers: latest round-up

Magnifin/Huber | Magnor (RHI Normag) | TIMAB/Mag. do Brasil | Brucite+ | Premier | FromMag | Delamin/Morgan
As we progress mid-way through the second quarter of 2021, magnesia markets are showing signs of recovery while there […]

The vision for industrial minerals: IMFORMED Rendezvous 2021 Review

Key trends shaping the global industrial minerals industry
CO2 reduction | Transforming beyond trading | Covid-19 impact and economic outlook | Critical minerals | EV supply chain | Making profit from strategy | Processing developments
Yes, it […]

Phil Owen 1964 – 2021

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Phil Owen, popular and much befriended Advertisement Manager of the former Industrial Minerals magazine.

Phil, 56, died peacefully in his sleep on 16 February 2021.

As […]

Barite oilfield market looks to recovery after 2020 impact

US output halted as overseas alternatives emerge | India expands
Described as “one of the worst years in recent history” for the oilfield market, it is unsurprising that world barite production was estimated to have decreased by […]

Industrial minerals reach critical mass awareness – about time

Critical minerals challenge & outlook covered at IMFORMED Rendezvous 2021 ONLINE 14 April
To those in the industry this is nothing new. But it is one thing for the experts to know about something important, and […]

Industrial Minerals Trading Transformation: Survival of the Fittest

Jan Weber, CEO, Possehl Erzkontor presents at the IMFORMED Rendezvous 2021
IMFORMED is delighted to announce that Jan Weber, CEO, Possehl Erzkontor GmbH & Co. KG, is to present:
“Remaining valuable through dual transformation: managing to go […]

Industrial minerals logistics: how important is it to the supply chain?

Future trends in port logistics spotlighted at IMFORMED Rendezvous 2021 ONLINE 14 April
Events in Egypt this week served to demonstrate yet again just how significant a factor logistics plays in the supply chain of industrial […]

Mineral industry awards presented by SME

IMFORMED Rendezvous Roundtable Host Dan Eyde receives SME Fellow Award
For understandable reasons, this year’s gathering of the global minerals community at the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME)’s annual meeting (MINEXCHANGE 2021 SME Annual […]

Chinese magnesia latest: reforms in the Year of the Ox

As we enter the Chinese Year of the Ox, reports from China, so influential in global mineral supply and benchmark pricing, suggest change may well be in the air yet again for the magnesia supply […]

Industrial minerals outlook: crucial global trends & developments

IMFORMED Rendezvous 2021 ONLINE 14 April
Logistics | Critical Minerals | CO2 + Energy Challenges | Next Economic Cycle | Mineral Pricing | From Strategy to Profit | Grinding & Classifying Developments | Trading transformation

For established players […]

Mineral recycling: New horizons in a new era

Mineral Recycling Forum 2021 ONLINE Reviewed
EU Critical Minerals | Refractories | Ceramics | Graphite | Bauxite | Magnesia | Mining Waste | LIBS Sorting
The latest trends and developments in recycling industrial minerals were presented and […]

Speciality magnesia markets targeted by Callista with RHIM assets buy

RHI Magnesita sells PPL & RHI Normag to private equity firm; Normag renamed Magnor Minerals
It only seems very recently that RHI Magnesita (then RHI AG) was reinforcing its captive magnesia supply base with the acquisition of […]

BPM to divest perlite business & focus on zeolite market

Unique NZ perlite operation for sale amid limited world sources
Blue Pacific Minerals Ltd, New Zealand, is looking to sell its perlite extraction and processing division as it focuses on its zeolite business.
Title picture: BPM’s perlite […]

Andalusite Resources to emerge from Business Rescue with new ownership

Following some 18 months of uncertainty and delay, South Africa’s remaining independent andalusite producer and world no.2, Andalusite Resources (Pty) Ltd (AR), is finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel.

Having successfully warded off […]

Magnesia & refractories major Kümaş acquired by Turkish steel leader Erdemir

Kümaş joins Almatis within OYAK group | Vertical integration strategy rolls on as end users target supply security
After several years of speculation, and some close calls from leading competitors, one of the world’s leading magnesite […]

IMFORMED wishes all a most healthy & peaceful 2021! Latest Forum Updates

For this past year, of all years, IMFORMED would like to thank its delegates, sponsors, partners, contacts, and families for all their kind support and participation for a most challenging last 12 months.
The number seven […]

Refractory minerals from China: shutdowns & shipping spark price surge

Bauxite, BFA, Andalusite, Magnesite impact | Supply reforms in pipeline
As if 2020 had not dished out enough disruption for one year, suppliers and consumers of Chinese refractory minerals are facing more issues impacting the supply chain […]

Mineral Recycling Forum 2021 ONLINE – Programme & Details

12.00-17.00 GMT Tuesday 9 February 2021
EU Action | Mine Tailings | Refractories | Li-ion Batteries | Ceramics | Alumina | Graphite | Magnesia
IMFORMED is delighted to announce Mineral Recycling Forum 2021 ONLINE, 12.00-17.00 GMT Tuesday […]

IMFORMED wins UK business award

IMFORMED is delighted to have been the recipient of the Southern Enterprise Award 2020 for Best Independent Specialist Industry Event Organiser.

The SME (Small Medium Enterprise) Awards are organised by SME News and celebrate the success […]

Mineral trader transformation: Possehl Erzkontor on mission to fully integrate by 2024

Refractory mineral processor MMW Hamm acquired by Possehl Erzkontor
World leading industrial mineral trading company Possehl Erzkontor GmbH & Co. KG is on a mission to transform itself through diversification and verticalisation into “an integrated end-to-end […]

Refractory Minerals Forum 2021 ONLINE – Let’s keep in contact & conversation!

IMFORMED is delighted to announce a new online Forum for the refractory raw materials industry.
Refractory Minerals Forum 2021 ONLINE
16-17 March 2021
FULL DETAILS HERE

PLEASE NOTE NEW DATES FOR
China Refractory Minerals Forum 2021, Dalian, 25-27 October 2021 
Field […]

Fluorspar market outlook: alternative sources ascendant | Li-ion battery potential

Fluorine Forum 2020 ONLINE Review
IMFORMED’s inaugural virtual event Fluorine Forum 2020 ONLINE took place last month and was hailed a great success by attendees keen to keep abreast of trends and developments in supply and […]

New era of mineral exploration, sourcing & development dawns

Panglobal action to kickstart domestic mineral projects driven by critical mineral demand
It is regrettable that it takes a pandemic to spotlight what many have been warning about for some years: a shortage of commercially developed […]

The World of Industrial Minerals Under COVID-19

Challenges & Opportunities
IMFORMED was honoured to be asked to present the Keynote presentation at the General Session of the recent Industrial Minerals Association-North America Virtual Annual Meeting.

Industrial Minerals Association-North America (IMA-NA) is the representative voice […]

Fluorspar market trends & outlook

Fluorine Forum 2020 ONLINE Programme Confirmed
IMFORMED is delighted to announce the programme for Fluorine Forum 2020 ONLINE, 12.00-16.30 BST Tuesday 13 October (details here)
While our original planned event in Hanoi has been postponed to 18-21 October […]

Refractory minerals outlook: “Industrial waste resources will become the new normal”

IMFORMED interviewed for Interceram’s Refractories Manual 2020

IMFORMED was delighted to have been interviewed for this year’s Refractories Manual 2020, the annual Special Edition of Interceram.

Interceram – International Ceramic Review is a comprehensive source on science […]

Guyana bauxite newcomer starts bulk shipments

First Bauxite high grade alternative source for non-met. markets
PLUS: Australian Bauxite progress | China bauxite latest
Early July saw First Bauxite LLC load the first bulk ocean vessel of its Guyanese raw high grade non-metallurgical bauxite […]

Industrial Minerals: Fallout, Opportunities, Recovery Strategies

IMFORMED-Tractus Asia Webinar Reviewed
The industrial minerals sector has been rocked; first, by the US-China trade war, its ensuing political tensions, and then by the pandemic.

Last week 150 attendees signed up to a webinar on Wednesday […]

Magnesia in Question: China & World Trends Discussed

Report on NAIME’s Magnesia & Refractory Webinar Dashiqiao 9 July 2020
Last week IMFORMED was delighted to be invited to present on world magnesia supply trends at a special conference and webinar organised by the Northeast […]

2020 Vision for Industrial Minerals

Introduction to Mining Engineering’s annual review of industrial minerals
IMFORMED is delighted and honoured to have been invited to write the introductory article “2020 Vision for Industrial Minerals” for Mining Engineering’s latest annual review of industrial minerals.

The […]

WEBINAR: Industrial Minerals – Trade War, Politics, & Covid-19

WEDNESDAY 22 JULY 2020 | 22:00 SINGAPORE | 15:00 LONDON | 10:00 EST
The industrial minerals sector has been rocked; first, by the US-China trade war, its ensuing political tensions, and then by the pandemic.
Join IMFORMED […]

Magnesia from the “Roof of the World” to Kentucky

First Chinese MgO-C refractory plant in US: PRCO America to use high purity Tibet magnesia source
Liaoning magnesia supply hit by new dynamite ban
The US refractories market is to have its first Chinese-owned magnesia-carbon brick plant, possibly […]

2020 Global Magnesia Refractory Conference/Webinar – Northeast Asia Magnesia Exchange

9-10 July 2020 14:00-18:00 Beijing Time
In-person & Virtual Conference
Lihua Hotel, Dashiqiao, Liaoning Province, China
PLEASE NOTE: ALL SESSIONS IN CHINESE EXCEPT FOR MIKE O’DRISCOLL’S PRESENTATION IN ENGLISH DAY 1: 9 July 14.00 Beijing Time | […]

WEBINAR: Fluorspar market trends 25 June 2020

Impact of COVID-19 | Threat of alternatives to fluorspar
Organised by Roskill | panel participation by IMFORMED
25 June 2020

Roskill will present its latest views and insights on the fluorspar industry and the entire F-supply chain, examining the […]

Fluorine focus: new & alternative source developments Part 2

Non-fluorspar sources – evolving & utilised; FSA a game changer?

As we examined in Part 1, new fluorspar deposit developments in North America are showing signs of increased activity (see Part 1: North American mineral prospects […]

Fluorine focus: new & alternative source developments Part 1

North American mineral prospects – so who’s doing what?

New fluorspar deposit development and progress with alternative fluorine sources such as fluorosilicic acid (FSA), depleted uranium hexafluoride (DUHF), mine tailings, and aluminium fluoride (AlF3) from bauxite […]

The IMFORMED Industrial Minerals Crossword – winner announced, solutions available

We hope everyone is safe and bearing up as well as can be in these challenging times.

Our stab at some light relief was putting out The IMFORMED Crossword Puzzle last month. We are most grateful […]

RMCC Russian brucite project progress: Asian magnesium hydroxide markets targeted

European processing option realised with Quimialmel, Spain

Leading brucite producer, Russian Mining Chemical Co. LLC (RMCC), has completed the first stage of development of what is claimed as the world’s largest deposit of brucite (the natural […]

Challenging & Changing Times: latest updates on Forums 2020-21

Plus: Proceedings & Wall Charts Available | The IMFORMED Crossword

To all our customers, sponsors, and supporters,

We hope you are staying safe and well in these challenging times.

Ensuring the health and safety of our attendees, exhibitors, […]

The IMFORMED Crossword Puzzle

Test your knowledge of industrial minerals & markets
Got some time on your hands? Why not give it a try? Learn in your lockdown.

Minerals world faces challenging future; potential positive outcomes provide ray of light – UPDATED

Market Monitor: US “critical” industry list | SA mine shutdown | Refractories | Steel | Foundry | Cement | Glass | Oilfield

Right now it’s hard to find anything but gloom and uncertainty for the near […]

Recycling Industrial Minerals: Challenges, Solutions & Opportunities

Review of Mineral Recycling Forum 2020, Aachen

Last week’s IMFORMED Mineral Recycling Forum 2020 in Aachen, Germany squeaked in under the wire before the EU lockdown response to the Covid-19 virus outbreak.

With sensible precautionary measures in […]

China’s mineral supply to global markets: dominance, diversity & disruption

COVID-19 impact continues as mineral consumers ponder future supply mind set

It’s happened a few times before: during the SARS outbreak of 2003, the Beijing Olympics of 2008, and most recently the 2017-19 anti-pollution drive, but […]

UPDATED Advisory: Covid-19 Virus & IMFORMED Forums 2020

Ensuring the health & safety of our attendees, exhibitors, partners, & staff is our top priority
POSTPONED TO 2021: IMFORMED RENDEZVOUS | MAGFORUM | OILFIELD MINERALS FORUM | CHINA REFRACTORY MINERALS FORUM | FLUORINE FORUM (HANOI)
FLUORINE FORUM […]

Magnesia supply sector consolidates further

Refra buys QMAG to boost captive magnesia supply & eyes non-refractory markets

The long awaited outcome of Sibelco’s sale of Queensland Magnesia Pty Ltd (QMAG) finally came to a conclusion last month with the 14 January […]

Logistics key to industrial minerals market success – UPDATED

Port of Amsterdam is Lead Sponsor for IMFORMED Rendezvous 2021

IMFORMED is delighted to announce Port of Amsterdam as Lead Sponsor to our IMFORMED Rendezvous “Vision for Industrial Minerals”, Noordwijk-Amsterdam, 12-14 April 2021 – full details here (Note: this Forum […]

IMFORMED Rendezvous 2021 Programme – UPDATED

The Vision for Industrial Minerals

IMFORMED is delighted to announce its programme for the IMFORMED Rendezvous “The Vision for Industrial Minerals”, at Noordwijk (Amsterdam), 12-14 April 2021 (Full details here). 

Note: This Forum was postponed from 6-8 April 2020. […]

Mineral Recycling: Today’s Waste, Tomorrow’s Resource

FINAL WEEK EARLY BIRD RATE SAVING US$500
Latest confirmed speakers

ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS | MINERAL SUPPLY OPPORTUNITIES 
The strive towards the Circular Economy has boosted the evolution of recycling industrial waste. In turn, this has increased the potential of recycling […]

So, farewell then Industrial Minerals magazine…

…you served the industry well

The end of an era for those in the mineral media world. The October-November 2019 issue of Industrial Minerals magazine marked its final edition.

An announcement in late October 2019 stated: “the […]

2020 Vision for Industrial Minerals

Announcing IMFORMED 2020 Forums – Mark your Diaries
Mineral Recycling | Global Outlook | Magnesia | Oilfield | Fluorine | China Refractories
IMFORMED is delighted to announce an exciting portfolio of high profile conferences for 2020, providing […]

India’s mineral markets potential dances to the Bollywood Beat

Indian Minerals & Markets Forum 2019 Review

They call it the “City of Dreams”, or Mayanagri: Mumbai, rich in history and trade, is India’s financial and business hub as well as home to Bollywood.

Last week the […]

Fluorspar market outlook: Pitch-perfect in Prague

 Fluorine Forum 2019 Review

The great and the good of the global fluorine raw material supply chain gathered in Prague last month for an excellent three days of high profile presentations, discussion, and invaluable networking.

IMFORMED’s Fluorine […]

India’s Industrial Minerals’ Outlook

JUST ONE WEEK TO GO!
Forum Update | New Speakers

IMFORMED’s Indian Minerals & Markets Forum 2019, takes place on 18-20 November, at the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu.
India’s minerals industry is on the threshold of a new […]

Fluorspar market points to Prague

Two weeks to go until Fluorine Forum 2019

With just under two weeks until IMFORMED’s Fluorine Forum 2019 at the Alcron Hotel, Prague, on 21-23 October, the great and the good of the global fluorine raw […]

Indian minerals & markets outlook: the time has come

India has always been one of the world’s great sources and markets for industrial minerals, but now looks set to significantly raise its profile.

Already the world’s fifth largest manufacturer, India remains on track to be […]

Magnesia Hiatus in Haicheng – IMFORMED seeks answers

With disruption to Chinese magnesite mining activities, ongoing consolidation of the supply sector, and some new operations coming on stream, IMFORMED is looking forward to assessing the situation at next week’s 8th China Liaoning International […]

New fluorspar source for European markets

Gujarat Fluorochemicals subsidiary to expand in Morocco
At a time when fluorspar consumers are pondering their limited sourcing options as restricted supply and high prices dominate the market, newcomer GFL GM Fluorspar SA in Morocco is […]

Magnesia speciality supplier Lehmann&Voss&Co. celebrates 125 years

August 2019 is a milestone month for speciality industrial minerals supplier Lehmann&Voss&Co. which celebrated its 125th Anniversary at the Hamburg Fischauktionshalle on 16 August.

The First Mayor of the City of Hamburg, Dr. Peter Tschentscher, opened the […]

China minerals 2019: bauxite & magnesia mid-year report

Year of the Pig starting to live up to its name?

Shanxi outlook mixed and uncertain

China increasing bauxite imports

Haicheng mining halted | PRCO new supply

Ternamag starts DBM

The view from the West

Towards the end of 2018 we […]

Fluorspar markets: the cold, the hot, & the energetic

Fluorine is a vital element to some of our primary manufacturing industries – chemicals, steel, aluminium – and more recently, the soaring Li-ion battery market.

However, the main raw material feedstock, the mineral fluorspar, is only […]

Fluorspar supply: trade trends & new sources

Fluorspar supply for 2018 was reasonably tight, mainly owing to mine closures from environmental controls in China, and limited production from new and emerging producers in Canada and Asia.

This looks set to continue through 2019 […]

Oilfield minerals rock in Houston

Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum 2019 Review

A high profile panel of expert speakers covering drilling fluids, barite, proppants, logistics, and processing and some 130 leading decision makers from the global oilfield mineral supply chain gathered […]

Talkin’ Oilfield Minerals – Houston style

Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum Houston 2019, 10-12 June

Just a brief note to say a big thank you to all our sponsors, speakers, and delegates for supporting and participating in such a successful and enjoyable Oilfield […]

Magnesia market meets in Bilbao

MagForum 2019 Review – a market in transition?

A sunny Bilbao beckoned the leading lights of the world magnesia market to gather and discuss the industry’s latest trends and developments at IMFORMED’s MagForum 2019, at the […]

Industrial minerals’ future shines in the City of Light

Review of IMFORMED Rendezvous, 8-9 April 2019, Paris

You can’t beat Paris in the Springtime, and you would be hard pushed to beat a more enthusiastic and knowledgeable crowd discussing the future and fundamentals of the […]

CIMBAR opens new US barite plant & acquires ATH plant

CIMBAR Performance Minerals Inc. has recently opened a new barite operation in Marietta, Ohio, serving the north-east regional oilfield market.

The new plant’s main product is API Drilling Grade Barite with a production capacity of around […]

Rendezvous in Paris in the Spring – Thank you!

Just a quick note to say a big thank you to all our sponsors, speakers, and delegates for supporting and participating in such positive fashion at our inaugural IMFORMED Rendezvous this week (8-10 April, at […]

Squaring the Circular Economy with industrial minerals

Mineral Recycling Forum 2019 Krakow – Review

This year’s Mineral Recycling Forum 2019 took place in the lovely city of Kraków, south Poland, where international delegates from across the supply chain of industrial mineral recycling gathered […]

Industrial minerals: what’s it all about? Part 2

Drivers, factors, keys to success

Following on from our earlier analysis of the underlying principles of the industrial minerals business (see Part 1: Overview, structure & key takeaways), here we discover what makes it tick, by […]

Industrial minerals: what’s it all about? Part 1

Overview, structure, & trends

The industrial minerals market is not always an easy one to understand. Minerals and rocks exploited for their non-metallurgical value represent a vital but frequently poorly understood sector of the global minerals […]

Prof. Wen Lu 1937-2018 | Authority on China’s industrial minerals

It is with great sadness that we report the recent passing of Prof. Wen Lu, the respected authority on Chinese industrial minerals.

Wen Lu’s contribution to knowledge and understanding of China’s vast industrial minerals resources was […]

Mineral Recycling Forum 2019, Krakow, 4-6 March

Looking forward to meeting all and networking in the beautiful city of Krakow next week at Mineral Recycling Forum 2019.

Excellent speakers on key topics driving the evolution of the secondary raw material supply chain for […]

Meet you at the SME Annual Meeting Denver

Smart Mining – Resources for a Connected World, 24-27 February 2019

Mike O’Driscoll, Director, IMFORMED will be attending this year’s SME Annual Meeting & Expo, 25-27 February 2019 at the Denver Convention Center – more details […]

Industrial minerals’ future & fundamentals

IMFORMED Rendezvous, 8-10 2019, Paris – Confirmed Programme
All you need to know, all you need to meet, all in one place

BOOK HERE! EARLY BIRD RATE ENDS 25 FEBRUARY 2019

Bringing together and making connections for established players seeking […]

Are you set for the Circular Economy? Challenges & opportunities revealed here

Mineral Recycling Forum 2019 Confirmed Programme

Mineral Recycling Forum 2019, Krakow, 4-6 March 2019 is bringing together the leading players to network and discuss the supply chain of recycling industrial minerals, from sourcing, supply, processing, logistics […]

Who is winning the global lithium ion battery arms race?

By Simon Moores, Managing Director, Benchmark Mineral Intelligence

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has caused upheaval in the lithium ion battery industry.

Before Elon Musk announced Tesla’s intention to build the world’s biggest lithium ion battery […]

Brian O’Connell 1965-2019

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Brian O’Connell, long standing friend and expert to the oilfield industry, particularly with respect to barite purchasing at Halliburton.

With his joy of life and trademark […]

Best Wishes for a Happy & Prosperous 2019

As IMFORMED nears its fourth anniversary, Mike and Ismene would like to thank all our customers, sponsors, friends, and families for their unstinting support during the year.

May we take this opportunity to wish all of you […]

Jean-Pierre Collart 1941-2018

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Jean-Pierre Collart on Wednesday 19 December 2018. He passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his family and friends.

Jean-Pierre, or “JP” as he […]

China’s refractory mineral supply – a New World: review & outlook

Heading into 2019, China’s mineral supply squeeze continues to challenge world refractory producers

A range of factors arising in 2017 and spilling into 2018 significantly compounded the shortage of key refractory (and other) mineral exports from […]

Fluorspar market outlook | Madrid meet hits the spot

Fluorine Forum 2018 Review

The beginning of the year’s final quarter is always a busy time for the fluorspar market, as consumers seek to secure supply for the following year.

With prices at six-year highs and availability […]

China minerals supply outlook: Shanghai showdown

Review of China Refractory & Abrasive Minerals Forum 2018

Well, the Chinese Year of the Dog has certainly lived up to its name as suppliers, traders, and consumers of Chinese refractory and abrasive minerals strive to […]

Fluorspar outlook: a new era dawns?

Was 2017 a turning point for the world fluorspar market? Can prices maintain their recent high levels? How will the new wave of supply sources influence the market? How will the latest developments in the […]

China minerals meltdown 2: long hot summer of discontent smoulders on

China customs sharpens up | Bauxite & magnesite latest | US trade war impact
China Minerals Forum 2018 Early Bird Rate ends Friday 3 August

As the summer of 2018 rolls on, temperatures have been rising in […]

Magnesia market summit: a Hamburg Humdinger

MagForum 2018 Review

The great and the good of the global magnesia business gathered at IMFORMED’s MagForum 2018 conference held 17-20 June, at the Grande Elysée Hotel, Hamburg.

And what a superb MagForum it turned out to […]

China and raw material security dominates European refractory industry

IMFORMED proud to present at PRE & ANFRE meetings
Refractory raw material supply availability is the chief concern among Europe’s refractory producers as the situation in China, the primary source of key refractory minerals, continues to […]

Magnesia source alternatives emerge in Serbia and Australia

 

With the prospect of continued short supply from the world’s major source of magnesia in China, traders and buyers are seeking alternatives worldwide.

Among several potential possibilities these now include a planned rejuvenation of a dormant […]

Hawaii comes to Houston

Oilfield Minerals Forum 2018 Review

Whether it was the spirit of Aloha evoked by the Hawaiian-themed Welcome Reception organised by Excalibar Minerals, or the rising oil price supporting a recovery in drill rig activity, the positive […]

China’s refractory minerals crisis: dark days of the Dog continue

Magnesia, bauxite, and BFA production halts in Liaoning, Henan, Shanxi

In our last post on the subject of China’s refractory minerals squeeze (see Dog Days ahead for Chinese mineral consumers? Newsfile 13 February 2018) I postulated that […]

Mineral Recycling Forum 2018: Review

IMFORMED’s Mineral Recycling Forum 2018 took place at the Radisson Blu, Cologne 15-16 March 2018 where international delegates networked and discussed the latest trends and developments in recycling steel waste, refractories, foundry chromite sand, salt, […]

Refractory raw material supply “the single most important challenge”

Refractory Rendezvous Delhi – IREFCON18 Report

Yes, the weather was warm and pleasant, as was the hospitality, and the quality of attendees appeared to excel over the 2016 event by most accounts.

But what a difference two […]

Southern Sand Storm

How US proppant demand has influenced ceramic mineral supply

Since the mid-2000s, three of the most important ceramic raw materials – silica, kaolin, and bauxite – have been in high demand from the North American oil […]

Oilfield Minerals Outlook Middle East

Review of Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum Middle East 2018, Bahrain

Key takeaways

Middle East growth recognised by oilfield service companies

Rising power demand drives push for unconventional gas resources

Drilling muds a delicate balancing act using minerals

Call for global standardisation […]

Dog Days ahead for Chinese mineral consumers?

Refractory bauxite: CMP starts new plant | Bosai to add new rotary kilns

As we approach the eve of the Chinese New Year of the Dog, for many Chinese refractory mineral consumers and traders, it is […]

Forums 2018 Update: Fluorine Forum | Refractory Recycling Field Trip

Fluorine Forum 2018

IMFORMED is delighted to announce the dates and venue of its fluorine minerals and markets conference Fluorine Forum 2018, 15-17 October 2018, Hotel Wellington, Madrid.
We intend to build on the success of our […]

Best Wishes for 2018!

As IMFORMED nears its third anniversary, Mike and Ismene would like to thank all our customers, sponsors, friends, and families for their unstinting support during the year.

May we take this opportunity to wish all of you a […]

Fluorspar feelgood factor in Mexico

Fluorine Forum 2017 review: acidspar growth, metspar scarcity

IMFORMED is delighted to report on the success of its inaugural Fluorine Forum which took place in San Luis Potosí, Mexico 30 October-2 November 2017 – two days of […]

China bauxite supply sector faces winter closures

Price rises with 5-month Shanxi plant shutdown to March 2018 in anti-pollution measure

Just when you wondered if things could get any worse. Further to our earlier report on the impact of environmental legislation on China’s […]

China minerals meltdown

Bauxite/BFA supply shortage | CMP last man standing?

If ever there was a time to acknowledge and try to understand the significant influence of Chinese policies on industrial mineral supply to western markets – and there […]

Graphite sector sees activity rise

Offtake deals for new players | Ceylon Graphite exploration
As the industry builds up to its annual meeting at Graphite Supply Chain 2017, 5-7 November, Balboa Bay Resort, Newport Beach, organised by IMFORMED and Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, a […]

British Fluorspar in UK mining revival

Fluorspar market upturn projected for 2018 | US HFC ban showdown

British Fluorspar’s rejuvenation of the Milldam Mine in Derbyshire, UK is one of several industrial mineral developments which have galvanised a perceived revival of UK […]

Fluorspar revival in Newfoundland

Canada Fluorspar leads pack of emerging new suppliers
Canada Fluorspar Inc.’s St Lawrence mine was officially opened, or rather, reactivated last month, following almost 40 years of exploration and attempts to restart operations since the mine […]

Fluorine Forum 2017: Early Bird Rates end 15 September

Chinese magnesite supply: 80% to come under state control & consolidation

The prospect of China’s magnesite mining sector coming under state ownership accompanied by consolidation of major players into one entity is looking increasingly likely to come to fruition this year.

Further to our recent report on […]

China minerals supply squeeze: hangover to 2018 likely

• Environmental and explosives controls impact output, prices increase
• Magnesite supply reform: state control of raw magnesite sales
• Bauxite/BFA supply also challenged

Just when traders thought they could breath a sigh of relief as China waved […]

Fluorspar renaissance rallies in South Africa

SepFluor kickstarts Nokeng as Doornhoek awaits green light
Core values: logging core at SepFluor’s Nokeng project, where 12.2m tonnes of ore have been measured at an average of about 27% CaF2. Courtesy SepFluor

The […]

Fluorspar future: strong outlook for steel, aluminium, and fluoropolymers

Despite a decline in world fluorspar demand in 2016 owing to weak demand particularly for metallurgical-grade material, the outlook remains strong for fluorine in the steel, aluminium, and fluoropolymer markets as prices firm during 2017.

This […]

Magnesia market outlook: Krakow crackerjack

MagForum 2017 analyses latest issues and spotlights potential newcomers and markets

Key takeaways

China: supply impact issues to beset 2017-18; controversial trade reforms proposed

New supply sources and capacities: Saudi Arabia (DBM+CCM), Australia, Canada

Refractories: steady growth in steel […]

Fluorine market outlook: “Interesting times…a lot of uncertainty”

IMFORMED interviews Peter Huxtable & Alison Saxby
Plus Fluorine Forum 2017 Programme Update

“It’s a very interesting time. There is an awful lot happening, and a lot of uncertainty”.

So says Peter Huxtable, consultant and specialist in fluorspar […]

Oilfield Minerals Outlook: Houston hoedown hits home

Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum 2017 Review

This year there was definitely something to smile about, and we are not just referring those intrepid delegates braving the “bucking bronco” at the Monday reception (more on that […]

Magnesia maelstrom in China

Industry heads to MagForum 2017 Kraków for answers and latest outlook

Accounting for about 70% of world magnesite production and just over 60% of world magnesia production, China has a strong influence over the global magnesia market.

But […]

Ceramic proppant outlook: trying to build a market on sand

The phrase “building on sand” has an unfortunate ring of reality to those ceramic proppant suppliers striving to attain some purchase on the wave of recovery currently sweeping the North American hydraulic fracturing market today.

Proppant […]

Frac Sand Frenzy Part 2 ?

As the year’s First Quarter reports start to roll in it is already clear that 2017 is going to turn out to be a marker in the recovery of the proppants industry of North America.

Frac […]

Barite miners in Nigeria receive government boost; call for import ban to be reinstated

Nigeria’s barite sector is hoping to enter a new era of development that will enable it to compete more favourably with the dominant and superior quality barite imports.

The Nigerian government recently launched its Economic Recovery […]

Mineral logistic challenges & innovations: getting on top of it all

The importance of logistics in transporting industrial minerals from mine to market came under the spotlight last week at IMFORMED’s Mineral Logistics Forum 2017, 10-11 April 2017, held at The College Hotel, Amsterdam.

This is the […]

Oilfield minerals market: Year of recovery

The oilfield minerals industry is emerging from the doldrums of 2015/16 with renewed vigour and expectations of rising demand during the next two years at least.

Increased E&P spending and drilling activity in the USA has […]

Waste deep in opportunities

Mineral Recycling Forum 2017 Review

Rotterdam was again the setting for IMFORMED’s second Mineral Recycling Forum last week, 7-8 March 2017, bringing together leading players in the fast evolving secondary raw materials sector.

A real buzz was […]

Mineral Logistics Forum: 2020 vision for Port of Amsterdam

Shipping Outlook | Kaolin from Brazil | New Silk Way | Mineral Inspection |  Fertiliser Minerals

By 2020 the largest sea lock in the world will open in IJmuiden, increasing the Port of Amsterdam’s total transhipment […]

Imerys appeal dismissed: Andalusite Resources merger prohibition stands

And the winner is…the Competition Tribunal of South Africa, plus consumers of andalusite for refractories: no mixed up envelopes in this drama.

The Appeal Court in South Africa today ruled in favour of the Competition Tribunal […]

Li-ion battery recycling: no worries for raw material suppliers…yet

The emergence of secondary raw materials becoming a more mainstream source of recycled industrial minerals is to increase in significance in the overall supply chain from mine to market.

However, the diversification of end use markets […]

Mineral Recycling Forum 2017: Programme Update

Additional speakers: Harsco | Befesa | Hosokawa Alpine | STET
There is just a month to go until IMFORMED’s upcoming Mineral Recycling Forum 2017, 7-8 March 2017, Rotterdam.

Much interest is already gathering for our second Mineral […]

Oilfield minerals outlook for the Middle East: Dubai Review

Key takeaways from Dubai:

Market recovery on the way

Saudi rig activity up

Mineral demand increase expected

Gas supply challenge a driver

Stricter environmental specs. on barite

Aramco pushing for SG4.2 barite, Na-treated bentonite, local suppliers

Broychim to open new 240,000 tpa […]

Update: Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum Dubai 2017

Additional speakers | Sponsor news
With just over a week to IMFORMED’s inaugural Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum Dubai 2017, 15-17 January, at the Habtoor Grand Resort Dubai, we are delighted to announce some updates to […]

Best wishes for the New Year

As IMFORMED nears its second anniversary, Mike and Ismene would like to thank all our customers, sponsors, friends, and families for their unstinting support during the year.

May we take this opportunity to wish all of […]

Fluorine Forum 2017

SUPER EARLY BIRD RATES
FIELD TRIP TO MEXICHEM
CALL FOR PAPERS

In response to customer demand, IMFORMED is delighted to announce its inaugural Fluorine Forum 2017, 30 October – 1 November 2017, in San Luis Potosí, followed by a […]

Oilfield minerals demand in the Middle East: Destination Dubai

The Middle East remains a powerhouse of oil and gas production and thus a major market for oilfield minerals used in drilling fluids, stimulation and cementing applications.

The region is a major importer of key oilfield […]

Graphite Supply Chain 2016 Newport Beach 13-15 November 2016

FINAL PROGRAMME ANNOUNCED

REGISTER NOW!
SUNDAY 13 NOVEMBER 2016
DAY ONE: WELCOME
16:00 Registration Island Hotel, Newport Beach
18:00 Welcome Drinks Reception & Networking
sponsored by Bass Metals Ltd   
MONDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2016
DAY TWO: CONFERENCE
07:30 Registration | Networking Breakfast | Exhibition […]

RHI & Magnesita: how they stack up

One could argue that last week’s announcement of the proposed merger of two of the world’s largest magnesia and refractory groups – RHI AG’s takeover of Magnesita Refratários SA to form RHI Magnesita – was […]

Announcing Forums for 2017

CALL FOR PAPERS
EARLY BIRD RATES AVAILABLE
Oilfield | Recycling | Logistics | Magnesia
Networking and Knowledge for the Industrial Minerals Business
IMFORMED is delighted to announce its Forum programme for 2017.
Following the success of its 2016 Forum series, […]

IBAR pursues refractory grade magnesia exports with Cofermin

IBAR Nordeste Ltda of Brazil has announced the appointment of M!nerals by Cofermin as its exclusive sales agent for dead burned magnesia in Europe and other selected areas.

IBAR Nordeste produces dead burned magnesia (DBM) and […]

Imerys merger with Andalusite Resources prohibited

And then there were…still three producers of andalusite!

The long-awaited decision by South African authorities has appeared to have finally quashed Imerys’ hopes of amalgamating one of the world’s two independent producers of the refractory mineral […]

Will the graphite industry take off?

Supply and demand trends revealed by Simon Moores, Benchmark Mineral Intelligence
The use of graphite in lithium-ion batteries has been a huge topic of discussion over the last few years.

Naturally, this has ramped up interest in the […]

Refractory mineral sources: where are they?

Announcing IMFORMED’s Refractory Raw Material World Sources Map®
Primary world sources and production capacity of key refractory raw materials

As we know, the physical and chemical properties of industrial minerals make good their application in a wide variety […]

Graphite Supply Chain 2016

Early Bird Registration Closing Today

Register Now!
Confirmed speakers
The graphite supply chain: the rising criticality of niche minerals versus commodities
Mike O’Driscoll, Director, IMFORMED, UK
Graphite: An independent supply/demand forecast for 2017 onwards
Simon Moores, Managing Director, Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, […]

Bill McCracken: The passing of a refractory minerals legend

In Memoriam: William H. McCracken 1923-2016
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of William H. “Bill” McCracken, aged 92. Bill passed away of heart failure, in Lima, Peru on 7 August after suffering […]

Jinding USA named exclusive Americas supplier for Liaoning Jinding Magnesite Group

Direct sourcing of Chinese high grade fused and dead burned magnesia
One of China’s leading magnesia producers, Liaoning Jinding Magnesite Group Co. Ltd (JDMG), has named Jinding USA (JDUSA) its exclusive magnesia sales agent and exporter […]

Graphite’s future: what lies ahead?

Graphite Supply Chain 2016 | The world’s new meeting place for the natural graphite industry

As industrial minerals go, graphite can be as exciting as it gets (no disrespect to US frac sand developers in the […]

Houston Highlights

Oilfield Minerals Forum 2016 Review
Despite the cautious rally of oil prices in recent weeks the oil industry has remained depressed. In such downturns it is often imperative to glean market knowledge as never before.

So perhaps […]

Magnesia comes home

MagForum 2016 Review
Austria is host to some wonderful scenery and culture, but it is also the home of the modern magnesia industry, and thus Vienna was a most fitting venue for IMFORMED’s inaugural magnesium minerals […]

Oilfield market outlook: new dawn rises?

The BIG picture for oilfield mineral demand
Have we reached the bottom of the oil price decline and tentative recovery is on the way? Perhaps.

Oil prices have consistently risen in the last few weeks and while […]

Barite capacity impacted by oilfield blues

Halliburton idles Nevada plant; starts new source in Kazakhstan
It’s been a busy month for the barite sector, despite the prevailing dark clouds of the oilfield industry.

Halliburton’s Q1 2016 operational update last Friday made bleak reading […]

Industrial mineral supply chains explained

Mineral Logistics Forum 2016 Review
Understanding the logistics aspects of mineral supply chains is crucial to the success of any operation and project.

Those attending Mineral Logistics Forum 2016 in Rotterdam last week were fortunate to be […]

Fused magnesia projects: are they always crystal clear?

Outside China, production of fused magnesia has usually been in the hands of the few, and those that at least can negotiate half-decent electricity rates – fused industrial minerals are not known as “crystallised electricity” […]

Recycling industrial minerals: not so “secondary”

Mineral Recycling Forum 2016 Review
Last month witnessed the successful launch of IMFORMED’s inaugural Mineral Recycling Forum held in Rotterdam during 14-15 March.

Over 100 delegates came away enriched with knowledge and new contacts for one of […]

Magnesia market challenges & opportunities

MagForum 2016 eyes options for suppliers & buyers
These are testing times for the global magnesia business. Producers are looking to diversify into non-refractory markets amid a significant downturn in the steel industry.

IMFORMED’s inaugural magnesium minerals and markets […]

Refractory mineral trends: IREFCON16

India sparks healthy prospects for refractories
Courtesy Tata Steel

On 20-22 January 2016, the 11th India International Refractories Congress (IREFCON16), organised by the Indian Refractory Makers Association (IRMA), took place in Hyderabad. This well […]

Mineral Logistics Forum 2016

Programme Update
REGISTER NOW

The networking and knowledge hub for the industrial minerals logistics market
Shipping outlook | Logistics trends | Kaolin | Talc | Borates | Papermaking | Vienna hub | Handling

Without due care and attention in securing optimal […]

Calcined bauxite poised for proppants recovery

Roskill’s new Non-Metallurgical Bauxite & Alumina report
Roskill is releasing its new Non-Metallurgical Bauxite & Alumina report with forecasts to 2021. The report is essential reading for anyone requiring a comprehensive overview of the sector. Non-Metallurgical Bauxite […]

Mineral Recycling Forum 2016

Last Chance for Early Bird Registration
€125 Discount Ends Monday 1 February 2016
Contact: Ismene Clarke | +44 (0)7905 771 494 | ismene@imformed.com

As the minerals industry strives towards sustainable development, Secondary Raw Materials (SRM) have emerged as […]

Recycling refractories: entering a new era

The recycling of refractories has been around for at least the last three decades, although it has only been in the last few years that the sector has witnessed increased commercial activity.

The primary driver has […]

Best Wishes for a Happy & Prosperous 2016

 
As IMFORMED nears its first anniversary, Mike and Ismene would like to thank all our customers, sponsors, friends, and families for their unstinting support during the year.

May we take this opportunity to wish all of you a […]

Last chance for 2016 Forum Super Early Bird Discounts

Significant savings on registrations close Thursday 31 December 2015
Ensure you don’t miss out on next year’s leading networking opportunities for the industrial minerals business
Programmed with Intelligence | Moderated by Experts | To Engage and Serve the […]

Mineral recycling and Secondary Raw Materials on EC’s radar

New Circular Economy Package targets mineral recycling and trade in secondary raw materials
The European Commission (EC) has recently adopted what it calls an “ambitious” new Circular Economy Package in order to propel Europe towards a […]

Graphite Supply Chain 2016

The world’s new meeting place for the natural graphite industry

IMFORMED is proud to announce its first partnership with Benchmark Mineral Intelligence to launch Graphite Supply Chain 2016, 13-15 November 2016, Newport Beach (near LA), California, USA, […]

Seeking that industrial minerals opportunity

Industrial Minerals Basics: An Executive Primer
As the minerals industry hunkers down for the end of the year amid depressed markets and falling commodity prices, it’s surely the time to take stock of what’s what and […]

Magnesia sea change in Japan

A review of synthetic magnesia development
By Akio Ishida, Managing Executive Officer, Ube Material Industries Ltd, Japan

It started with salt
Although Japan has no natural magnesite resources, a number of unique synthetic magnesia producers have emerged since […]

Mineral recycling renaissance

Secondary Raw Materials to become more mainstream source for buyers
There is a sense that the recycling of industrial minerals in Europe is about to take a quantum leap during the next 5-10 years, boosted by […]

Ecutec to build GCC plant in Jordan – industry “picking up”

Manaseer to pursue calcium carbonate fillers market
Ecutec Barcelona SL is to construct a major ground calcium carbonate (GCC) plant for the Manaseer Group in Jordan, as Joe Roettle, Global Sales Manager, provides IMFORMED with a positive […]

European Minerals Day – Minerals Matter!!

IMFORMED welcomes European Minerals Day 2015!
The 2015 European Minerals Day is officially launched today in Rumelange, Luxembourg, at the Cimalux cement facility.

The event will take place under the Luxembourg EU Presidency, welcoming Mr François Bausch, […]

Refractory minerals outlook: slow growth period looms

Mineral supply chain and market competition awareness urged
One of industrial minerals’ key consuming markets, refractories, is expected to undergo a period of slow growth for the next few years, meaning at least steady, if not […]

Save the dates!

IMFORMED announces H1 2016 conferences
Recycling | Logistics | Magnesia | Oilfield
IMFORMED is delighted to announce confirmed dates and venues for the first half of 2016.

In response to this year’s success of our inaugural Mineral Logistics […]

Refractory graphite supply under spotlight as battery market evolves

Graphite users are closely monitoring the emergence of the new generation battery market as its market share grows.

The evolution of Li-ion batteries and their growing application in electric vehicles, utility storage facilities, and consumer-led electronic […]

Ceramic proppant producers unite for Indian shale gas market

LWP/Ashapura fly ash proppants JV: a future supply for the Middle East?
Described as a “quantum leap” for LWP Technologies Ltd, the Australian ceramic proppant developer has just announced a joint venture with Indian ceramic proppant producer […]

Foundry Minerals Forum casts weather eye over mineral supply & demand

Precursor to GIFA/METEC sets scene for foundry market week
Chromite | Bentonite | Carbon | Andalusite | Cenospheres | Zircon | Dunite | Silica sand | Mullite | Bauxite

Just about anyone who’s anyone in the metal […]

Oilfield Minerals Forum goes down a storm in Houston

IMFORMED conference abuzz with discussion and networking
Barytes | Barite | Bentonite | Hectorite | Garnet | Frac sand | Ceramic proppants | Shipping | Grinding | Drying | Handling | India | China | Argentina

IMFORMED’s […]

Gear up for GIFA: Foundry Minerals & Markets Forum 2015

Atlantic Congress Hotel, Essen, Monday 15 June 2015
Chromite | Zircon | Graphite | Andalusite | Mullite | Bentonite | Silica sand | Dunite | Cenospheres

IMFORMED’s 1-day conference for the foundry mineral business is of high interest […]

Chromite market challenge continues

Refractories and chemicals show bright spots
The overall situation for non-metallurgical chromite supply is one of weak demand and oversupply, particularly for foundry grade, although there are some signs of improvement in refractory and chemical markets.

World […]

Indian barytes tender concluded

Garuda starts new barytes processing plant
India’s tender for sale of crude barytes ore concluded earlier this week, with a total of 400,000 tonnes of barytes sold by the country’s dominant producer, state government-owned Andhra Pradesh […]

Zircon plant opened in US by Southern Ionics Minerals

Timing good as Iluka winds down US operations
Southern Ionics Minerals LLC has formally opened its new Mineral Sands Plant (MSP) in Offerman, Pierce county, Georgia, with zircon and titanium minerals production scheduled to start in […]

Foundry Minerals & Markets Forum 2015, 15 June, Essen

Chromite, zircon, graphite, andalusite, mullite, bentonite, silica sand, dunite, cenospheres
Only 1 week to Early Bird Rate cut-off 15 May 2015. Book now for a €125 saving!
IMFORMED’s high profile 1-day conference for the foundry mineral business […]

Indian barytes upgrade jv between APMDC and ONGC

Revised barytes tender outcome uncertain
India’s vast stockpile of low grade barytes material will be the feedstock for a new upgrading initiative planned between the country’s largest barytes producer, Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corp. Ltd (APMDC), […]

Ceramic proppant pilot plant commissioning in Australia

Coretrack Ltd has commenced commissioning at its recently constructed pilot-scale proppant plant at Clontarf, near Brisbane, Queensland.

Coretrack is developing a new ceramic proppant grade based on fly-ash for use in hydraulic fracturing of oil and […]

Mineral Logistics on a high in Rotterdam

IMFORMED’s first event a success
IMFORMED’s inaugural event, Mineral Logistics Forum 2015, took place last Friday, 24 April 2015, in Rotterdam, and by common consent of the attendees was an unqualified success.

A total of 92 international […]

Imerys move to buy Andalusite Resources quashed

SEE NEWSFILE UPDATE
SA Competition Commission found deal “significantly preventing competition”
The acquisition of Andalusite Resources (Pty) Ltd, which would have bolstered Imerys’ already strong grip on the global andalusite supply sector, has been prohibited by South […]

Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum Houston 2015

Only 1 week to go until Early Bird Rate cut-off 27 April 2015!
Book now for a US$300 saving!
IMFORMED’s high profile conference for the global oilfield mineral business is attracting much attention as the market adjusts […]

Barytes US imports up in 2014

Port of Houston tour confirmed for Oilfield Minerals & Markets Forum
According to the USGS, estimated US barytes imports in 2014 increased by more than 29% to 2.9m tonnes compared with those of 2013, indicating increased demand […]

Mineral Logistics Forum 2015

THIS FORUM HAS TAKEN PLACE – FOR DETAILS ON PROGRAMME, ATTENDEES, PICTURES, & FEEDBACK PLEASE CLICK HERE

With just a month to go until IMFORMED’s inaugural Mineral Logistics Forum 2015, 24 April 2015, in Rotterdam, there […]

Proppants: Carbo Ceramics idles US & China plants in 18% capacity cut

First it was Oxane Materials, then Saint-Gobain, followed by Imerys, and now the mighty Carbo Ceramics. All of the US major ceramic proppant producers have now been forced to idle capacity in the face of […]

Imerys seals S&B acquisition: so what does it mean?

Imerys, the world’s leading industrial minerals group, in a significant move for the industrial minerals sector has closed its purchase of Greek industrial minerals group S&B Industrial Minerals SA.

The buy brings considerable mineral assets to […]

Rio Tinto moves uranium into industrial minerals group

Titanium dioxide feedstock output to remain steady
In expectation of a challenging 2015 and “to drive greater value”, Rio Tinto Plc today announced an organisational restructure, essentially a streamlining in splitting up its Energy business and […]

Imerys, Sibelco, Rio Tinto, & Magnesita talk about their mineral supply chains

Where? Right here at the Mineral Logistics Forum 2015, 23-24 April 2015, Rotterdam – the networking and knowledge hub for all those active in logistics for industrial minerals.

IMFORMED announces an exciting speaker panel with Imerys, […]

Proppant prospects postponed? Be patient

The sharp drop in oil price has clearly impacted the ceramic proppants market with major producers halting expansion plans and in more severe cases closing plants. How long can we expect these doldrums to last?

The […]

Haydn Murray: Industrial minerals world mourns passing of a legend

Prof. Haydn H. Murray, world renowned industrial minerals geologist and long time professor of geology at Indiana University passed away peacefully on 4 February 2015 in Bloomington, Indiana.

Haydn Murray was a great worker and friend […]

Mineral supply logistics: often underestimated, always vital

Logistics is one of the most important components of any industrial mineral operation or project development.

And yet it is the one aspect in industrial mineral project due diligence that is most often overlooked. It can […]

Industrial Minerals Market Embraces New Provider of Information and Events

IMFORMED launches new platform for industrial minerals networking and research, announcing high profile Forums on mineral logistics, oilfield, and foundry markets.
A new source of information and networking events dedicated to the global industrial minerals business […]

World’s second hectorite source on stream

Hectatone’s first shipment of organoclay for oilfield drilling
Hectatone Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Western Lithium USA Corp., has produced an organoclay, branded Hectatone™, from its processing plant near Fernley, Nevada, using lithium-rich hectorite from the […]

Rio Tinto Minerals borates production up 3%

Rio Tinto Minerals (RTM), which claims to supply almost 50% of the world’s refined borates, has reported that its 2014 borates production was up 3% over 2013 to 508,000 tonnes B2O3 content.

Barytes UK mine replacement for M-I SWACO by 2017

Oil price crisis, what crisis? Despite apparent gloom for the outlook of drilling activity and its impact on oilfield mineral demand, M-I SWACO appears to be pressing ahead with plans to open a new barytes […]

Barytes developments continue amid Baker Hughes-Halliburton merger

Last year’s news of the mega-merger of oilfield supply giants Baker Hughes and Halliburton continues to reverberate.

Among a number of issues that the proposed transaction raises is the prospect of two of the largest producers […]

Proppant promise from Australian fly ash

A pilot plant to be operated by Ecopropp Pty Ltd in Australia for producing ceramic proppants manufactured from fly ash is aiming for commissioning in early 2015.

Most recently, Ecopropp also reported that “highly positive” results […]

Proppant players feel the squeeze

Ceramic proppant producer Oxane Materials Inc. is to close its Van Buren, Arkansas plant on 23 January 2015.

News of the closure was delivered on 24 November in a letter to Van Buren Mayor Bob Freeman […]

Proppant players in Europe: ceramic proppant options limited as Baltic Ceramics gears up

With European shale gas development a question of an uncertain when, rather than if, it would seem prudent for those wishing to enter a looming proppant market to start securing suitable reserves and preparing production […]

Shale gas market in Europe remains uncertain

Further withdrawals by overseas oil and gas exploration companies from Ukraine is seriously hindering the country’s ability to swiftly realise its shale gas resource potential, and thus provide a potential market for proppants.

That said, the […]

Mining supergroups – do industrial minerals get a look-in?

Glencore acquiring Rio Tinto would have established a world mining supergroup. For the time being it now looks as if the deal is off, with both parties now assessing options as the mineral community ponders […]