Ep 126: The Hidden World of Silica Sands

In this episode of the Fresh Thinking podcast, Laurie Hassall (Senior Consultant, Geology) and Senzeni Matondi (Principal Consultant, Geology) from Snowden Optiro's UK office explore the fascinating world of silica sands.

Often overlooked, silica sands are vital for producing glass, solar panels, and high-tech products that shape our modern world. Laurie and Senzeni discuss what makes silica sands so unique, how they are processed, and why demand for this industrial mineral is growing.

Whether you work in mining, processing, or downstream industries, this episode provides valuable insights into how silica sands are transforming from a bulk commodity into a critical mineral for the future.

Key Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction to the hosts and today’s topic 0:48 – What silica sands are and why they matter 2:00 – What sets silica apart from other industrial minerals 3:10 – Purity levels and the critical role of Fe₂O₃ in glass production 5:01 – Key factors for processing silica sands 5:35 – Typical processing pathway explained 7:25 – Resource estimation for silica sand deposits 9:43 – Why silica sands are now seen as a critical mineral 10:38 – The future of silica sands: geometallurgy and sustainability 12:01 – Final thoughts and takeaways

Have a question about silica sands or you'd like to contact Laurie and Senzeni: [email protected]

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