Mica; worked mica and articles of mica (excluding plates, sheets and strips) whether or not on a support of paper, paperboard or other materials

HS code 681490 covers a diverse range of mica-based products, which are widely used in various industries due to mica's unique physical and electrical properties. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral that has been utilized for centuries, and its versatility has made it an essential component in numerous applications, from electronics to construction materials. This industry plays a crucial role in supporting the global supply chain, providing essential inputs for a wide range of downstream sectors.

The production of mica-based products under HS code 681490 typically involves several key steps. First, raw mica is extracted from mines and then processed to remove impurities and separate the mica into thin sheets or flakes. These mica sheets are then further processed, depending on the final product, which may include cutting, shaping, or bonding the mica to other materials such as paper, paperboard, or various supports. The specific techniques used can vary depending on the intended application and the desired properties of the final product.

The main inputs required for the production of mica-based products under HS code 681490 include raw mica, which is the primary raw material, as well as various supporting materials such as paper, paperboard, or other substrates. Additionally, specialized machinery and equipment are necessary for the extraction, processing, and fabrication of mica-based products. Energy sources, such as electricity or fuel, are also important inputs for the manufacturing process.

The primary outputs of the industry covered by HS code 681490 are a wide range of mica-based products, including but not limited to electrical insulation, heat-resistant materials, and decorative applications. These mica-based products are then consumed by various downstream industries, such as 854370 Electrical machines and apparatus, having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere in this Chapterfor electrical insulation, 681191 Millstones, grindstones, grinding wheels and the like, without frameworks, for grinding, sharpening, polishing, trueing or cutting, hand sharpening or polishing stones, and parts thereof, of natural stone, of agglomerated natural or artificial abrasives, or of ceramicsfor abrasive applications, and 680800 Panels, boards, tiles, blocks and similar articles of vegetable fiber, of straw or of shavings, chips, particles, sawdust or other waste, of wood, agglomerated with cement, plaster or other mineral bindersfor construction materials.