Mining & Processing

How Fluorspar Is Mined and Processed

Fluorspar (CaF2) is a industrial mineral with global annual production of approximately 8.5 million tonnes, primarily from China and Mexico. Typical ore grades range from 30-80% CaF2.

Mining Methods

Fluorspar is extracted through the following methods, selected based on deposit type and geology:

• Open-pit mining
• Underground mining

Ore Types and Mineralogy

The principal ore types and mineral sources for Fluorspar include:

• Fluorite - CaF2

Processing and Beneficiation

Following extraction, Fluorspar ore undergoes the following processing stages:

1. Dense media separation
2. Flotation
3. Acid-grade beneficiation

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Mining and processing of Fluorspar must comply with environmental regulations governing water use, tailings management, emissions, and land rehabilitation. Increasingly stringent environmental standards are raising production costs but also driving innovation in cleaner extraction technologies. The social license to operate and community engagement have become critical factors in project development, particularly in China where 65% of global production is concentrated.