Toormaterjal

Toormaterjal (Estonian for raw material) is a basic input used in manufacturing that has not undergone substantial processing to become a finished product. It includes natural materials extracted from the environment as well as synthetic materials created through chemical or physical processes. Raw materials are evaluated for properties such as purity, grade, moisture content, and suitability for later processing.

Natural raw materials include commodities such as minerals, metals, timber, agricultural products, and energy resources. Synthetic or refined raw materials include chemicals, polymers, and alloys produced to meet specific performance requirements. Some materials are classified as primary raw materials, while others come from recycling and are referred to as secondary raw materials.

Raw materials are procured through supply chains governed by contracts, specifications, and sustainability criteria. Quality control, testing, and standardization ensure that inputs meet required tolerances before they enter production. Price volatility, geopolitical factors, and logistics can affect availability and total cost.

During manufacturing, raw materials are processed into intermediate forms or finished goods. The choice of raw material affects product properties, cost, and environmental impact. Increasing emphasis on the circular economy drives recycling and recovery of materials from used products to reduce waste. International standards from ISO, ASTM, and others guide testing and labeling.