Australia has some of the world's largest mineral sands deposits encompassing 32% of the worlds ilmenite (titanium) resources, 62% of rutile resources and 68% of global zircon resources.
Rutile and ilmenite are used in the production of paint, titanium metal and medical implants. Zircon is used in ceramics, digital printing, dentistry and electrical components.
Quantities of Rare Earth elements are also produced through mineral sands, which are used in wind turbine magnets, and in medical, manufactured and electornic products - for example in rechargable batteries and hybrid cars.
"Mineral Sands: From ancient oceans to modern technology"
Mineral Sands End Uses A to Z