With almost 60% by weight of the available rocks in the earth's crust, feldspars represent by far the dominant group of minerals. They are chemically resistant tectosilicates with a robust grain morphology. Feldspar belongs to the group of alkali and alkali earth metal silicates and is an essential raw material for numerous economic sectors. Its hardness and resistance make it an indispensable component in the production of ceramics, glass, and as a filler in the plastics industry. Nepheline syenite is an igneous rock with a unique chemical composition.

Chemical formula

FELDSPAR
Sodium feldspar: NaAl[Si₃O₈]
Potassium feldspar: KAl[Si₃O₈]

Feldspars exhibit crystalline structures in both the monoclinic and triclinic systems. Monoclinic crystals are typical of orthoclase, adularia, and sanidine, while microcline, as an intermediate and final member of the plagioclase series, crystallizes in the triclinic system.

HPF’s feldspar and nepheline syenite: Products of the highest quality

The products distributed by HPF bear the following brands:

Feldspar and nepheline syenite find multiple applications in the world of polymers, where their unique properties are utilized in various sectors:

The MICROSPAR^® feldspar product range has proven to be particularly effective in dentistry, where it is used in prosthetics, filling materials, and impression materials.

Paints and Coatings

Powder coatings
A type of TREMINEX® with special surface treatment opens new horizons in the world of powder coatings based on polyester resin. The exceptional properties of this special filler offer a clear added value:

• Excellent mechanical properties
• Good incorporation into the formulation thanks to surface treatment
• Better results in salt spray and condensation tests on steel
• Cost savings due to higher yield

Industrial paints – HPF Minerals

Wood paints
The advantages of a surface treated nepheline syenite of the TREMINEX^® 958 range in parquet paints include:

• Improved scratch resistance
• Excellent transparency

Wood and decor coatings – HPF Minerals

The traditional use of feldspar and nepheline syenite extends across a wide range of industries. Feldspar, as a significant component, plays a key role in the production of ceramics and porcelain. Its chemical resistance and ability to aid in melting and sintering make it indispensable in glass production.

The versatility of feldspar is also evident in the insulation industry, where it is used in the production of mineral wool. Additionally, feldspar finds its application in the jewelry industry, where it is used to produce gemstones and decorative elements; in this context, labradorites are particularly suitable. Nepheline syenite is used in the art industry. Its pigments and glazes are appreciated for creating unique artistic expressions.

Feldspar, being the predominant mineral in the earth's crust, plays a central role in various industrial applications and is valued for its unique properties. The name of this mineral is based on its cleavage and ability to detach fine lamellae under mechanical action.

Feldspar minerals are found in a variety of rock types, including eruptive, metamorphic, and sedimentary formations. This mineral variety is presented as a chemically resistant tectosilicate with a thick and tabular grain morphology. European deposits are often characterized by mixed feldspars composed of potassium and sodium feldspar. An example of pure and homogeneous potassium feldspars comes from the Amberger Kaolinwerke in Hirschau, a company of the Quarzwerke group; they are a significant component of HPF's product range.

Through complex processing processes, HPF offers both potassium and sodium feldspars that meet the highest quality standards. These high-quality fillers, with their chemical resistance, play a crucial role in various industrial processes, particularly in the production of ceramics, glass, and other high-quality materials, such as for the plastics and dental industry.

Nepheline syenite consists of feldspars and feldspar-like minerals such as albite, microcline, and nepheline. This raw mineral material does not contain crystalline quartz. Nepheline syenite is inert and, like feldspar, is distinguished by its remarkable hardness and a high degree of whiteness.

Feldspar and nepheline syenite are widely distributed raw mineral materials found in various geological formations worldwide.

Feldspar is globally found in various rock types. Major deposits can be found in different countries such as China, India, Turkey, Italy, Brazil, and the United States, as well as Germany. These countries host vast deposits, exploited through mining to meet the growing demand in the ceramics, glass, and construction materials industry.

Nepheline syenite is also widely distributed, with significant deposits in countries such as Canada, Russia, Norway, and India. These regions are characterized by magmatic processes leading to the formation of nepheline syenite, making it a sought-after raw material for the production of pigments, glazes, and other applications.

In Germany, feldspar is extracted from the rich deposits of Hirschau/Schnaittenbach. Here, vast feldspar deposits are made accessible through careful mining. The extraction takes place in several stages, starting with the identification and extraction of deposits. State-of-the-art technologies and geological expertise are used to locate deposits and extract high-quality feldspar.

The actual extraction involves separating feldspar from rock layers. In Hirschau/Schnaittenbach, the quality of feldspar is evident in its purity and composition, making it a sought-after raw material for various industries.

Afterward, feldspar is carefully processed and reduced to the desired grain size. This process is crucial to meet the specific demands of various applications, whether in the production of ceramics, glass, or other industrial sectors.

The extraction of nepheline syenite follows a similar process. This type of magmatic rock, composed of feldspars, albite, microcline, and nepheline, is extracted and carefully processed to exploit its multiple properties.

Mindful and sustainable extraction is a central principle. State-of-the-art technologies are used to minimize environmental impact and ensure ecological sustainability.

Feldspar has a long history. Already in antiquity and ancient China, it was used for the production of ceramics and glass. Its ability to melt at high temperatures and create a smooth and shiny surface made it a valuable raw material in art and craftsmanship. Over time, the use of feldspar has further diversified, finding applications in modern industries, from porcelain and ceramics production to glass production to plastics production.

Nepheline syenite also has an interesting and impressive history. The discovery and use of this type of rock are closely related to advances in mining and processing technology. In the history of art, nepheline syenite plays a role as a pigment and material for glazes.

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