Description:
The nonmetallic mineral resources of Arizona are attracting
increased attention because of their possible utilization in
future industrial expansion of the Pacific Coast region and the
Southwest.
Production of nonmetallics in Arizona has been small compared
with that of metals. Of the $3,500,000,000 value of all minerals
produced in the State prior to 1944, nonmetallics constituted possibly
$48,000,000 or about 1% per cent.
Development and mining of nonmetallics have been handicapped
by costs of transportation to the industrial centers that
offer steady markets. Because of their natural abundance, most
nonmetallics are relatively low priced. The potential value of a
deposit depends largely upon its location in reference to transportation,
its adaptability to low-cost mining, and its quality and
tonnage.
Most of the nonmetallics mined in Arizona have been used
locally, but some find their chief markets outside the State.
There is room for much research upon the geology, methods of
beneficiation, and possible new uses- for Arizona's minerals. 58 p.