Explanation

Also known as foid. Similar to feldspar in chemical composition, it is the general name of aluminum silicate mineral with anhydrous framework structure and metal cations of potassium, sodium or calcium. It is named after its similarity in chemical composition to feldspar minerals. It includes nepheline, garnet, scapolite, calcium nepheline and sodalite, but nepheline and leucite are the most important and common. Compared with feldspar group minerals, these minerals have higher aluminum, potassium and sodium contents, but silica is not saturated, so they do not coexist in equilibrium with quartze. It is the main rock forming mineral of alkaline igneous rocks. It can be used as raw materials for ceramics and glass, as well as fillers for coatings and paints. Those with beautiful color can be used as gemstones. Potassium rich species can be used as raw materials for the production of potassium salt. It has a broad prospect for comprehensive utilization.

Classification