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World Gypsum Producing Countries

by poonam bisht

Gypsum is an abundant mineral that was formed millions of years ago due to evaporation of shallow seas. Gypsum is a common, very soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate…


World Gypsum Producing Countries Map

Gypsum is an abundant mineral that was formed millions of years ago due to evaporation of shallow seas. Gypsum is a common, very soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate. The second softest mineral, it is found in alabaster.

Gypsum is extensively found in sedimentary rocks. It is deposited from saline lake and sea water, as well as in hot springs from volcanic vapors. Gypsum is also found disseminated in limestones, dolomitic limestones, and some shales.

The World Map of Gypsum producing Countries shows a list of countries that have large gypsum deposits and produce the mineral in large quantities.

As shown in the map, China is the largest producer of gypsum; in 2010 it produced an estimated 45,000 metric tonnes of gypsum. The second-largest gypsum producer is Iran followed by Spain, the United States, Thailand, Japan, Mexico, Italy, Canada, Australia, Turkey, Russia, Egypt, India, France, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Germany, Algeria, United Kingdom, Poland, and Argentina.

In the United States, commercial sedimentary gypsum deposits occur in New York and Michigan. In France, gypsum is common in the marls and clays of the Paris basin, especially in Montmartre.

Crude gypsum is used as a fluxing agent, fertilizer, and as a filler in paper and textiles. It is also often used as a retarder in portland cement.

Major Producers of Gypsum in world-2010

Country Production (Thousand Metric Tonnes)
China 45,000
Iran 13,000
Spain 11,500
United States 9,400
Thailand 8,500
Japan 5,800
Mexico 5,800
Italy 4,100
Canada 3,500
Australia 3,500
Turkey 3,100
Russia 2,900
Egypt 2,500
India 2,500
France 2,300
Saudi Arabia 2,100
Brazil 1,900
Germany 1,900
Algeria 1,700
United Kingdom 1,700
Poland 1,500
Argentina 1,300
Other Countries 11,400

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