fosforihartsit

Fosforihartsit is a sedimentary rock that contains a high concentration of phosphate minerals, most commonly apatite, and serves as the principal source of phosphorus for fertilizer production. The ore is typically composed of phosphate grains bound with carbonate minerals, clays, and sometimes organic matter, and occurs as nodules, beds, or chalk-like layers within marine sediments. Phosphorite deposits form in marine environments with elevated biological productivity, where phosphate-rich detritus accumulates and becomes concentrated through diagenesis.

Global phosphorite deposits are widely distributed. Major reserves are found in North Africa (notably Morocco and Western Sahara), the Middle East, the United States (notably Florida), China, and Russia. The P2O5 content varies considerably from one deposit to another, commonly ranging from about 15% to over 30% in higher-grade ores.

Extraction and processing of fosforihartsit typically involve open-pit mining. After crushing, ore is beneficiated by washing and flotation to increase phosphate content and remove impurities. The concentrated ore is then processed to produce phosphoric acid, which is used to manufacture phosphate fertilizers such as single superphosphate, triple superphosphate, and diammonium phosphate.

Environmental and economic context: Phosphorite mining underpins global agricultural production but is energy- and water-intensive and generates waste streams, including gypsum from processing. Phosphorus is a finite, non-renewable resource, with strategic considerations for supply security and environmental stewardship.