Exfoliated vermiculite, expanded clays, foamed slag and similar expanded mineral materials (including intermixtures thereof)

HS code 680620 covers a diverse range of expanded mineral materials, including vermiculite, clays, and slag. These materials play a crucial role in various industries, serving as insulation, absorbents, and specialty fillers. The global market for these products has been steadily growing, driven by increasing demand from construction, agriculture, and industrial sectors. As a versatile and essential commodity, the 680620 industry is an integral part of the broader economy, supporting a wide range of downstream applications.

The production of the materials covered under HS code 680620 typically involves a process of thermal or chemical expansion. Vermiculite, for example, is mined and then subjected to high temperatures, causing the mineral to exfoliate and expand. Similarly, clays may be treated with various chemicals to induce a foaming or expansion effect. Foamed slag, on the other hand, is produced by rapidly cooling molten slag, resulting in the formation of a lightweight, porous material. These production techniques aim to create materials with unique properties, such as low density, high insulation value, and enhanced absorption capabilities.

The main inputs required for the 680620 industry include raw mineral resources, such as vermiculite, clays, and slag. These raw materials are sourced from mining and industrial operations. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized equipment and machinery for the thermal or chemical expansion processes. Energy sources, such as natural gas or electricity, are also essential for powering the production facilities. Depending on the specific product, various chemical additives or binders may be used to enhance the desired properties of the expanded mineral materials.

The primary outputs of the 680620 industry are the various types of expanded mineral materials, including 680620 Exfoliated vermiculite, 680620 Expanded clays, 680620 Foamed slag, and other similar products. These materials find applications in a wide range of industries, such as construction (as insulation and fillers), agriculture (as soil conditioners), and industrial processes (as absorbents and specialty fillers). The outputs of the 680620 industry are often consumed by manufacturers and industries covered under other HS codes, such as 6806 Slag wool, rock wool and similar mineral wools; exfoliated vermiculite, expanded clays, foamed slag and similar expanded mineral materials; mixtures and articles of heat-insulating, sound-insulating or sound-absorbing mineral materials, other than those of heading 6811 or 6812.