Austria's Magnesite Production: World-Leading Output?

Austria ranks 6th in the world for the production of magnesite, a mineral composed primarily of magnesium carbonate. In recent years, Austria's magnesite output has ranged from 760,000 to 810,000 metric tons, with a peak production volume of 867,900 metric tons in 2011. While Austria is a significant producer of magnesite, it is not the world's biggest producer. That title goes to China, which accounts for roughly 60% of global output, with an estimated production of 13 million metric tons in 2023.

Magnesite production in Austria peaked in 2011

Magnesite is a mineral composed primarily of magnesium carbonate, and is used to produce magnesium oxide, which has many industrial applications. It is used as a refractory material in steel fabrication, as well as in the production of synthetic rubber, fertilisers, and other chemicals.

Magnesite production in Austria has remained relatively flat in recent years, ranging from 760,000 to 810,000 metric tons. Austrian magnesite producer Styromag operates five mines in the country and produces roughly 120,000 metric tons of material per year.

Austria ranks 6th in the world for magnesite production

Magnesite is a mineral composed primarily of magnesium carbonate. It is used to produce magnesium oxide, which has industrial applications such as refractory material in steel fabrication. It is also used in flooring materials, synthetic rubber production, and the production of fertilizers and chemicals.

Austria's magnesite output has remained relatively stable in recent years, ranging from 760,000 to 810,000 metric tons. In 2011, the country's magnesite production volume peaked at 867,900 metric tons. Austrian magnesite producer Styromag operates five mines in the country and produces roughly 120,000 metric tons of material per year.

The global magnesite market is projected to reach US$14.9 billion in 2028, driven by rising demand from the construction, chemical, metallurgical, and automotive industries. While Russia has the largest magnesite reserves, China leads the world in production, accounting for roughly 60% of global output.

The Austrian mining sector extracts mineral raw materials in over 1,200 quarries

Austria ranks 6th worldwide in the production of magnesite, a mineral composed primarily of magnesium carbonate. It is used to produce magnesium oxide, which has many industrial applications, including refractory materials, flooring materials, synthetic rubber production, and fertilisers.

The extraction of mineral raw materials makes a significant contribution to regional added value in Austria, with the raw materials industry providing the basis for generating about 25% of Austria's GDP. The country has a notable production of some raw materials, such as magnesite and tungsten, and is considered self-sufficient in aggregates (construction raw materials) like sand and gravel.

Austria's mining sector is known for its sustainability and innovation, producing high-quality raw materials that are processed into sought-after products worldwide. For example, Austrian micaceous iron ore is used in anti-corrosion paints on bridges like the Bosporus Bridge in Turkey and the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia.

The Austrian refractory industry is also recognised for its special services, including fireproof products for "Clean Steel", 3D printing, and simulation programs for production lines. Additionally, Austrian companies are global market and technology leaders, with their products sought after for their unique characteristics.

Styromag is an Austrian magnesite producer that operates five mines

Magnesite is a mineral composed primarily of magnesium carbonate, and is used in steel fabrication, as a catalyst and filler in the production of synthetic rubber, and in the production of magnesium chemicals and fertilizers. The global magnesite market was estimated to be worth US$12.37 billion in 2023, and is projected to reach US$14.9 billion in 2028.

While Russia has the largest magnesite reserves in the world, China leads the world in magnesite production, accounting for roughly 60% of global output.

Styromag's magnesite is kilned soft (caustic) in fluidized bed ovens and multiple hearth furnaces. The company has over 100 years of experience in Oberdorf, and uses modern technology to work effectively.

China is the world's top producer of magnesite

Magnesite is a mineral composed primarily of magnesium carbonate and is a major source of magnesium in China. The country has 27 proven deposits of magnesite, mainly located in the provinces of Liaoning, Shandong, Xinjiang, Tibet, and Gansu. Liaoning province holds the largest reserves in China, accounting for about 85.6% of the country's total.

China is not only a major producer but also a significant exporter of magnesite. It exports the mineral to various markets worldwide, including the United States. In 2023, China's magnesite exports to India grew by 9% due to increased demand for steel fabrication in India's infrastructure projects.

China is also a major consumer of magnesite, accounting for about 65% of global consumption. The mineral is used in steel fabrication, synthetic rubber production, and the manufacturing of magnesium chemicals and fertilizers. However, strict environmental regulations have led to the closure of several key magnesite mines in China.

In summary, China's large-scale production, export, and consumption of magnesite make it the world's top producer and a key player in the global magnesite market.

Frequently asked questions