Exploration unearths critical mineral deposits

Newly discovered ore expected to reduce the country's heavy reliance on imports

China's Ministry of Natural Resources recently identified high-purity quartz as the country's 174th mineral type, as multiple ore deposits have been discovered in the country, the ministry announced on Thursday. These discoveries are expected to reduce the country's heavy reliance on imports.

This newly recognized mineral ore can achieve a silicon dioxide purity of at least 99.995 percent after processing and purification. The impurity levels, inclusion content and particle size are suitable for high-tech applications such as semiconductors and photovoltaics.

"High-purity quartz is notable for its resistance to heat and corrosion, low thermal expansion, excellent insulation and light transmission properties. It is a foundational material for strategic emerging industries like semiconductors and photovoltaics, and plays a crucial role in enhancing national high-tech competitiveness," said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Natural Resources.