RAWMATERIAL

Raw material, sometimes written as rawmaterial, is a basic input used in the production of goods and services. It refers to materials that are extracted or harvested from nature, or produced with minimal processing, and that are subsequently transformed into finished products through manufacturing, refining, or fabrication.

Common natural raw materials include crude oil, natural gas, iron ore, coal, timber, agricultural crops, minerals, and water. Synthetic or derived raw materials are produced by processing feedstocks into polymers, chemicals, metals, and compounds that producers then convert into components.

In supply chains, raw materials differ by availability, geographic distribution, extraction and processing costs, and regulatory frameworks. Price and supply volatility can affect manufacturing planning, procurement strategies, and capital expenditure.

Most raw materials must undergo processing before use. This may involve refining, smelting, polymerization, milling, or other treatments to produce usable forms such as fuels, metals, plastics, fibers, or chemicals.

Environmental considerations include resource depletion, energy intensity, and emissions from extraction and processing, as well as land and water use. Sustainable practices, recycling, and substitution can reduce reliance on virgin raw materials and support a circular economy.