Ceramic clays

2022

Whiteware ceramic clays

Whiteware ceramic clays deposits occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are 2 types of deposits – the first are the Upper Cretaceous kaolinite clays forming interlayers in sandstones and are represented by the Bolko II and Ocice deposits; the second type are poorly coherent sandstones of kaolinite binder represented by the Janina I, Janina-Zachód and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by the water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

The ceramic clays deposits occurrence in Poland is presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of the exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

As of 31.12.2022, the anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays (faiance and porcelite) amounted to 60.05 million tonnes and decreased by 0.16 million tonnes (it means by 0.27%) in comparison with the previous year. The drop resulted from the exploitation and exploitation losses. Similarly to the previous years, the Janina I deposit was the only whiteware ceramic clays deposit exploited in Poland – the output amounted to 154.98 thousand tonnes of the sandstones of kaolinite binder, that is by 19.00 thousand tonnes less than in 2021 (the drop by 10.92%). The economic resources of the raw material as of 31.12.2022 were equal 0.39 million tonnes and decreased by 0.16 million tonnes (29.09%) in comparison with the previous year – due to the exploitation and losses. List of deposits is presented in Table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of whiteware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2022.

 

Stoneware ceramic clays

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in Świętokrzyskie and Dolnośląskie Voivodeships. Two deposits are located in Mazowieckie Voivodeship, while single ones in Łódzkie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

As of the end of 2022, the anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 76.93 million tonnes and decreased in comparison with the previous year by 0.50 million tonnes (0.65%). The resources drop resulted from the exploitation and exploitation losses.

The anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 6.24 million tonnes which accounted for 8.11% of the total anticipated economic resources. Almost all of these resources were covered by the detailed exploration (A+B, C₁ categories), only in the Baranów deposit remained 3 thousand tonnes of resources explored in C₂ category. The economic resources increased by 2.38 million tonnes in the result of: the approval of a new deposit development plan for the Zebrzydowa-Zachód deposit (+2.39 million tonnes), the exploitation and exploitation losses. The economic resources accounted for 84.94% of the anticipated economic resources of the exploited deposits.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2022, the exploitation of stoneware ceramic clays was carried out from 2 deposits. The total output was equal 246.96 thousand tonnes and grew by 3.49% (8.32 thousand tonnes) in comparison with 2021. The significant output increase was recorded for the Zebrzydowa-Zachód deposit – by 42.75 thousand tonnes (21.41%). The exploitation level of the Baranów deposit decreased visibly – by 26.43 thousand tonnes, that is 85.40%. In 2022, the exploitation from Rozwady I deposit was not carried out (in 2021 the output level was equal 8 thousand tonnes). List of deposits is presented in Table 4.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of stoneware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2022.

 

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

* Galos K., 2020 – ‘Iły biało wypalające się (white-firing clay, ball clay), kamionkowe (stoneware clay, ceramic clay) i ogniotrwałe (refractory clay, flint clay)’. In: ‘Bilans perspektywicznych zasobów kopalin Polski wg stanu na 31.12.2018 r.’ (eds. Szamałek K., Szuflicki M., Mizerski W.): 335-329. PIG-PIB, Warszawa [in Polish].

2021

Whiteware ceramic clays

Whiteware ceramic clays deposits occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits – the first are the Upper Cretaceous kaolinite clays forming interlayers in sandstones and are represented by the Bolko II and Ocice deposits; the second type are poorly coherent sandstones of kaolinite binder represented by the Janina I, Janina-Zachód and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by the water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

The ceramic clays deposits occurrence in Poland is presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of the exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

As of 31.12.2021, the anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays (faiance and porcelite) amounted to 60.21 million tonnes and decreased by 0.18 million tonnes (it means by 0.30%) in comparison with the previous year. The drop resulted from the exploitation and losses. Similarly to the previous years, Janina I deposit was the only whiteware ceramic clays deposit exploited in Poland – the output amounted to 173.98 thousand tonnes of the sandstones of kaolinite binder, that is by 12.06 thousand tonnes more than in 2020 (the growth by 7.45%). The economic resources of the raw material as of 31.12.2021 were equal 0.55 million tonnes and decreased by 0.18 million tonnes (24.66%) in comparison with the previous year – due to the exploitation and losses. List of deposits is presented in Table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of whiteware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2021.

 

Stoneware ceramic clays

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in Świętokrzyskie and Dolnośląskie Voivodeships. Two deposits are located in Mazowieckie Voivodeship, while single ones in Łódzkie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

As of the end of 2021, the anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 77.43 million tonnes and decreased in comparison with the previous year by 0.36 million tonnes (0.46%). The resources drop resulted from the exploitation and losses.

The anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 6.74 million tonnes which accounted for 8.70% of the total anticipated economic resources. Almost all of these resources were covered by the detailed exploration (A+B, C₁ categories), only in the Baranów deposit remained 3 thousand tonnes of resources explored in C₂ category. The economic resources decreased by 0.35 million tonnes (10.70%) as a result of the exploitation and losses. They amounted to 2.92 million tonnes and accounted for 43.32% of the anticipated economic resources of the exploited deposits.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2021, the exploitation of stoneware ceramic clays was carried out from three deposits. The total output was equal 238.64 thousand tonnes and grew by 4.10% (9.40 thousand tonnes) in comparison with 2020. The significant output increase (more than double) was recorded for the Baranów deposit – by 17.46 thousand tonnes. The exploitation level of the Zebrzydowa-Zachód deposit remained almost unchanged (a slight drop by 0.06 thousand tonnes, that is by 0.03%), whereas there was a visible decrease noted for the Rozwady 1 deposit (by 8 thousand tonnes, that is 50.00%). List of deposits is presented in Table 4.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of stoneware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2021.

 

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

* Galos K., 2020 – ‘Iły biało wypalające się (white-firing clay, ball clay), kamionkowe (stoneware clay, ceramic clay) i ogniotrwałe (refractory clay, flint clay)’. In: ‘Bilans perspektywicznych zasobów kopalin Polski wg stanu na 31.12.2018 r.’ (eds. Szamałek K., Szuflicki M., Mizerski W.): 335-329. PIG-PIB, Warszawa [in Polish].

2020

Whiteware ceramic clays

Whiteware ceramic clays deposits occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are the Upper Cretaceous kaolinite clays forming interlayers in sandstones and are represented by Bolko II and Ocice deposits. The second type are poorly coherent sandstones of kaolinite binder represented by Janina I, Janina-Zachód and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by the water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

The ceramic clays deposits occurrence in Poland is presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of the exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

As of 31.12.2020 the anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays (faiance and porcelite) amounted to 60.39 million tonnes and decreased by 0.17 million tonnes (it means by 0.28%) in comparison with the previous year. The drop was the result of the exploitation and losses. Similarly to the previous years, Janina I deposit was the only whiteware ceramic clays deposit exploited in Poland – the output amounted to 161.92 thousand tonnes of the sandstones of kaolinite binder, that is by 40.77 thousand tonnes less than in 2019 (the drop by 20.11%). The economic resources of the raw material as of 31.12.2020 were equal 0.73 million tonnes and decreased by 0.17 million tonnes in comparison with the previous year – due to the exploitation and losses. List of deposits is presented in Table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of whiteware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2020.

 

Stoneware ceramic clays

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Świętokrzyskie and Dolnośląskie Voivodeships). Couple of deposits are located in Mazowieckie Voivodeship, while single ones in Łódzkie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

As of the end of 2020, the anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 77.79 million tonnes and decreased in comparison with the previous year by 0.96 million tonnes (1.22%). The resources drop resulted from: – crossing out two deposits from ‘The balance…’: Borkowice II (−0.56 million tonnes) and Borkowice-Radestów 1 (−0.04 million tonnes); – the exploitation and losses.

The anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 7.10 million tonnes which accounted for 9.13% of the total anticipated economic resources. Almost all of these resources were covered by the detailed exploration (A+B, C₁ categories), only in Baranów deposit remained 3 thousand tonnes of resources explored in C₂ category. The economic resources decreased by 0.90 million tonnes (21.58%) as a result of the crossing out Borkowice II deposit from ‘The balance…’ (−0.56 million tonnes), the exploitation and losses. They amounted to 3.27 million tonnes and accounted for 46.06% of the anticipated economic resources of the exploited deposits.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2020, the exploitation of stoneware ceramic clays was carried out from three deposits. The total output was equal 229.24 thousand tonnes and dropped by 11.22% (28.96 thousand tonnes) in comparison with 2019. The significant output increase was recorded for Zebrzydowa Zachód deposit (by 13.80 thousand tonnes, that is by 7.42%), whereas there was a slight growth noted for Baranów deposit (by 0.04 thousand tonnes, that is 0.30%). The exploitation level from Rozwady 1 deposit dropped by 4.80 thousand tonnes (23.08%). The negative output balance was also caused by the crossing out Borkowice-Radestów 1 deposit from ‘The balance…’ – the output volume from this deposit was equal 38 thousand tonnes in 2019. List of deposits is presented in Table 4.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of stoneware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2020.

 

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

* Galos K., 2020 – ‘Iły biało wypalające się (white-firing clay, ball clay), kamionkowe (stoneware clay, ceramic clay) i ogniotrwałe (refractory clay, flint clay)’. In: ‘Bilans perspektywicznych zasobów kopalin Polski wg stanu na 31.12.2018 r.’ (eds. Szamałek K., Szuflicki M., Mizerski W.): 335-329. PIG-PIB, Warszawa [in Polish].

2019

Whiteware ceramic clays

Whiteware ceramic clays deposits occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are the Upper Cretaceous kaolinite clays forming interlayers in sandstones and are represented by Bolko II and Ocice deposits. The second type are poorly coherent sandstones of kaolinite binder represented by Janina I, Janina-Zachód and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by the water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

The ceramic clays deposits occurrence in Poland is presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of the exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

As of 31.12.2019 the anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays (faiance and porcelite) amounted to 60.56 million tonnes and increased by 2.58 million tonnes (it means by 4.45%) in comparison with the previous year. It was the result of the new documentations with recalculated resources elaborated for: Janina I deposit (+2.78 million tonnes) and Janina-Zachód deposit (−0.20 million tonnes). Similarly to the previous years, Janina I deposit was the only whiteware ceramic clays deposit exploited in Poland – the output amounted to 202.69 thousand tonnes of the sandstones of kaolinite binder), that is by 3.07 thousand tonnes less than in 2018 (the drop by 1.49%). The economic resources of the raw material as of 31.12.2019 were equal 0.90 million tonnes and decreased by 0.22 million tonnes in comparison with the previous year – due to the exploitation and losses. List of deposits is presented in Table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of whiteware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2019.

 

Stoneware ceramic clays

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Świętokrzyskie and Dolnośląskie Voivodeships). Couple of deposits are located in Mazowieckie Voivodeship, while single ones in Łódzkie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

As of the end of 2019, the anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 78.75 million tonnes and decreased in comparison with the previous year by 0.29 million tonnes (0.37%). The resources change was the result of the exploitation and losses.

The anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 8.06 million tonnes which accounted for 10.23% of the total anticipated economic resources. Almost all of these resources were covered by the detailed exploration (A+B, C₁ categories), only in Baranów deposit remained 3 thousand tonnes of resources explored in C₂ category. The economic resources decreased by 0.24 million tonnes (5.44%) as a result of the exploitation and amounted to 4.17 million tonnes. These resources accounted for 51.74% of the anticipated economic resources of the exploited deposits.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2019, the exploitation of stoneware ceramic was carried out from 4 deposits. The total output was equal 258.20 thousand tonnes and dropped by 3.99% (10.72 thousand tonnes) in comparison with 2018. The output increased only from Rozwady 1 deposit (by 18.40 thousand tonnes, that is almost 9-fold), in the case of Zebrzydowa Zachód deposit there was the output drop recorded by 26.78 thousand tonnes (12.59%), whereas for Baranów deposit the drop was equal 7.98 thousand tonnes (37.24%). In 2019, the exploitation of Borkowice II was not carried out, however, the output from Borkowice-Radestów 1 (Mazowieckie Voivodeship) started – it amounted to 38 thousand tonnes. List of deposits is presented in Table 4.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of stoneware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2019.

 

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

* Galos K., 2020 – ‘Iły biało wypalające się (white-firing clay, ball clay), kamionkowe (stoneware clay, ceramic clay) i ogniotrwałe (refractory clay, flint clay)’. In: ‘Bilans perspektywicznych zasobów kopalin Polski wg stanu na 31.12.2018 r.’ (eds. Szamałek K., Szuflicki M., Mizerski W.): 335-329. PIG-PIB, Warszawa.

2018

Ceramic clays are generally represented by sedimentary clays of a marine or lacustrine origin and with minerals of the kaolinite and illite group as the major rock-forming components. The clays, also known as kaolinite rocks, are raw materials for the production of whiteware ceramics. From the technology process point of view, the fired products may be assigned to whiteware or stoneware. Whiteware ceramic clays, attaining almost 50% whiteness when fired at the temperature of 1,300 °C, are used for the production of porcelite and faiance. In turn, stoneware ceramic clays are characterized by a worse whiteness degree, but they obtain a high bending strength, a big mechanical and chemical resistance and very low level of water absorption.

Whiteware ceramic clays deposits occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are the Upper Cretaceous kaolinite clays forming interlayers in sandstones and are represented by Bolko II and Ocice deposits. The second type are poorly coherent sandstones of kaolinite binder represented by Janina I, Janina-Zachód and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by the water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

The ceramic clays deposits occurrence in Poland is presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of the exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2018 anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays (faiance and porcelite) amounted to 57.98 million tonnes and decreased by 0.23 million tonnes (0.40%) in comparison with the previous year. Similarly to the previous years, Janina I deposit was the only whiteware ceramic clays deposit exploited in Poland with the output equal 206 thousand tonnes (the sandstones of kaolinite binder). The exploitation dropped by 8 thousand tonnes (3.74%) in comparison with the previous year. Economic resources of the raw material were equal 1.12 million tonnes and decreased by 0.23 million tonnes due to the exploitation and losses. List of deposits is presented in Table 2.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of whiteware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2018.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Dolnośląskie and Świętokrzyskie Voivodeships). Couple of deposits are located in Mazowieckie Voivodeship, while single ones in Łódzkie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

In 2018 anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 79.04 million tonnes and decreased by 0.19 million tonnes (0.24%). The resources change was the result of a new deposit – Borkowice-Radestów 1 – documentation (+0.08 million tonnes), the exploitation (−0.21 million tonnes) and losses.

Anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 8.27 million tonnes which accounts for 10.46% of total anticipated economic resources. Almost all of these resources were covered by the detailed exploration (A+B, C₁ categories), only in Baranów deposit remain 3 thousand tonnes of resources explored in C₂ category. Economic resources decreased by 0.25 million tonnes (5.36%) as a result of the exploitation and amounted to 4.41 million tonnes. These resources accounted for 53.33% of anticipated economic resources of exploited deposits.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2018, the output of stoneware ceramic clays came from 4 deposits and was equal 269 thousand tonnes (the growth by 8.03% – 20 thousand tonnes). The output increased by 16 thousand tonnes from Zebrzydowa Zachód deposit (8.12%) and by 2 thousand tonnes from Baranów deposit (10.53%). In the case of Borkowice II deposit there was the output drop recorded – by 1 thousand tonnes (3.03%). In 2018, the exploitation of Rozwady 1 deposit (Mazowieckie Voivodeship) started – the output amounted to 2 thousand tonnes. List of deposits is presented in Table 4.

PGE Górnictwo i Energetyka Konwencjonalna SA (PGE GiEK SA) informed that the exploitation of refractory and ceramic clays from non-documented deposits (so-called exploitation points) in the KWB Turów Mining Plant amounted in 2018 to 0.51 thousand tonnes.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of stoneware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2018.

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

2017

Ceramic clays are generally represented by sedimentary clays of a marine or lacustrine origin and with minerals of the kaolinite and illite group as the major rock-forming components. The clays, also known as kaoline rocks, are raw materials for the production of whiteware ceramics such as porcelain and bone china.

From the technology process point of view of, the fired products may be assigned to whiteware or stoneware. Whiteware ceramic clays, attaining almost 50% whiteness when fired at the temperature of 1,300 °C, are used for the production of porcelite and faiance. In turn, stoneware products are characterized by a very low level of water absorption and a high mechanical and chemical resistance.

Whiteware ceramic clays occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are kaolinite clays in sandstones of the Upper Cretaceous represented by Bolko II and Ocice deposits. The second are poorly coherent sandstones of kaolinite binder represented by Janina-Zachód, Janina I and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by the water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

Ceramic clays deposits are presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of the exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2017 anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays amounted to 58.21 million tonnes and decreased by 0.26 million tonnes (0.44%) in comparison with the previous year. Janina I deposit was the only whiteware ceramic clays deposit exploited in Poland with the output equal 214 thousand tonnes. The exploitation increased by 18 thousand tonnes (9.18%) in comparison with the previous year. Economic resources of the raw material were equal 1.35 million tonnes and increased by 1.03 million tonnes (more than four times) due to the new deposit development plan approved for Janina I deposit. List of deposits is presented in Table 2.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of whiteware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2017.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Dolnośląskie and Świętokrzyskie Voivodeships). Couple of deposits are located in Mazowieckie Voivodeship, while single ones in Łódzkie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

In 2017 anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 79.23 million tonnes and increased by 2.95 million tonnes (3.87%) – due to the new geological documentation with recalculated resources approved for Zebrzydowa Zachód deposit.

Anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 8.41 million tonnes (it accounts for 10.61% of total anticipated economic resources). Almost all of these resources were covered by the detailed exploration (A+B, C₁ categories), only in Baranów deposit remain 3 thousand tonnes of resources explored in C₂ category. Economic resources decreased by 0.25 million tonnes (5.09%) as a result of the exploitation and amounted to 4.66 million tonnes. These resources accounted for 55.41% of anticipated economic resources of exploited deposits.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2017, the production of stoneware ceramic clays came from 3 deposits and was equal 249 thousand tonnes (increased by 2.05% – 5 thousand tonnes). The growth was recorded only for Zebrzydowa Zachód deposit (by 18 thousand tonnes – 10.06%), the exploitation from Baranów deposit has not changed and remained at the level of 19 thousand tonnes, whereas the output dropped from Borkowice II deposit (by 13 thousand tonnes – 28.26%). In 2017, there was the concession for the exploitation of the raw materials from Rozwady 1 deposit (Mazowieckie Voivodeship) issued. List of deposits is presented in Table 4.

PGE Górnictwo i Energetyka Konwencjonalna SA (PGE GiEK SA) informed that the exploitation of refractory and ceramic clays from non-documented deposits (so-called exploitation points) in the KWB Turów Mining Plant amounted in 2017 to 0.50 thousand tonnes.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of stoneware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2017.

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

2016

Ceramic clays are generally represented by sedimentary clays of marine or lacustrine origin and with minerals of the kaolinite and illite group as the major rock-forming components. The clays, also known as kaoline rocks, are raw materials for production of whiteware ceramics such as porcelain and bone china.

From the technology process point of view of, the fired products may be assigned to whiteware or stoneware. Whiteware ceramic clays, attaining almost 50% whiteness when fired at temperature of 1,300 °C, are used to produce porcelite and faiance. In turn, stoneware products are characterized by very low level of water absorption and high mechanical and chemical resistance.

Whiteware ceramic clays occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are kaolinite clays in sandstones of the Upper Cretaceous represented by Bolko II and Ocice deposits. The second are poorly coherent sandstones with cement, rich in kaolinite represented by Janina-Zachód, Janina I and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

Ceramic clays deposits are presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2016 anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays amounted to 58.47 million tonnes and decreased by 0.06 million tonnes in comparison with the previous year. It was due to the exploitation from Janina I deposit and approving the new geological documentation with recalculated resources for this deposit. Janina I was the only whiteware ceramic clays deposit exploited in Poland with the output equal 196 thousand tonnes. The exploitation increased by 84 thousand tonnes (75%) in comparison with the previous year.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of whiteware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2016.

List of deposits is presented in table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Dolnośląskie and Świętokrzyskie Voivodeships). Single deposits are located in Łódzkie, Mazowieckie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

In 2016 anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 76.28 million tonnes and decreased by 0.12 million tonnes – due to the exploitation and losses (−0.24 million tonnes) and resources growth from a new documented deposit – Rozwady 1 (+0.13 million tonnes).

Anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 5.47 million tonnes (it accounts for 7.17% of total anticipated economic resources). Almost all of these resources were covered by the detailed exploration (A+B, C¹ categories), only in Baranów deposit remains 3 thousand tonnes of resources explored in C² category. Economic resources increased by 0.43 million tonnes as a result of a new deposit development plan approved for Borkowice II deposit and amounted to 4.91 million tonnes. These resources accounted for 89.76% of anticipated economic resources of exploited deposits.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2016, production of stoneware ceramic clays came from three deposits and was equal 244 thousand tonnes (increased by 5.63% – 13 thousand tonnes). The significant growth was recorded for Borkowice II deposit (by 10 thousand tonnes) and the exploitation from Baranów deposit has increased slightly (by 6 thousand tonnes), whereas the output dropped from Zebrzydowa Zachód deposit (by 3 thousand tonnes). List of deposits is presented in table 4.

PGE Górnictwo i Energetyka Konwencjonalna SA (PGE GiEK SA) informed that the exploitation of refractory and ceramic clays from non-documented deposits (so-called exploitation points) in the KWB Turów Mining Plant amounted in 2016 to 3.50 thousand tonnes.

The figure given below shows changes in domestic resources and production of stoneware ceramic clays in Poland in the years 1989-2016.

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

2015

Ceramic clays are generally represented by sedimentary clays of marine or lacustrine origin and with minerals of the kaolinite and illite group as the major rock-forming components. The clays, also known as kaoline rocks, are raw material for production of whiteware ceramics such as porcelain and bone china.

From the technology process point of view of, the fired products may be assigned to whiteware and stoneware. Whiteware ceramic clays, attaining almost 50% whiteness when fired at temperature of 1,300 °C, are used to produce porcelite and faiance. In turn, stoneware products are characterized by very low level of water absorption and high mechanical and chemical resistance.

The whiteware ceramic clays occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are kaolinite clays in sandstones of the Upper Cretaceous represented by Bolko II and Ocice deposits. The second are poorly coherent sandstones with cement rich in kaolinite represented by Janina-Zachód, Janina I and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

Ceramic clays deposits are presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2015 anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays amounted to 58.53 million tonnes and decreased by 0.27 million tonnes in comparison with the previous year. It was due to the crossing Janina deposit out from ‘The balance…’ (0.15 million tonnes) and due to the exploitation and the change of the mining area border of Janina I deposit (0.12 million tonnes). Janina I was the only whiteware ceramic clays deposit exploited in Poland with the output equal 112 thousand tonnes. The exploitation decreased by 31 thousand tonnes (21.68%). List of deposits is presented in table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Dolnośląskie and Świętokrzyskie Voivodeships). Single deposits are located in Łódzkie, Mazowieckie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

In 2015 anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 76.40 million tonnes and decreased by 0.34 million tonnes – due to the crossing five deposits out from ‘The balance…’: Barbara Sadlno (kop.), Gierałtów, Kleszczowa, Nowogrodziec II and Zebrzydowa (total resources equal 0.64 million tonnes); the exploitation and losses in exploited deposits (0.21 million tonnes). The resources growth (by 0.51 million tonnes) in Borkowice II deposit was caused by the approving of the new documentation with recalculated resources.

Anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 5.72 million tonnes (it accounts for 7.5% of total anticipated economic resources). Almost all of these resources were covered by the detailed exploration (A, B, C₁ categories), only in Baranów deposit remains 3 thousand tonnes of deposits explored in C₂ category. Economic resources amounted to 4.48 million tonnes and accounted for 78.3% of anticipated economic resources of exploited deposits.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2015, production of stoneware ceramic clays came from three deposits and was equal 231 thousand tonnes (increased by 12.1% – 25 thousand tonnes). The significant growth was recorded for Zebrzydowa Zachód deposit (by 14 thousand tonnes) and the exploitation from Borkowice II deposit has not changed in comparison with the previous year (it amounted to 20 thousand tonnes). The output dropped in the Baranów deposit (by 5 thousand tonnes). List of deposits is presented in table 4.

PGE Górnictwo i Energetyka Konwencjonalna SA (PGE GiEK SA) informed that the exploitation of refractory and ceramic clays from non-documented deposits (so-called exploitation points) in the KWB Turów Mining Plant amounted in 2015 to 4.08 thousand tonnes.

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

2014

Ceramic clays are generally represented by sedimentary clays of marine or lacustrine origin and with minerals of the kaolinite and illite group as the major rock-forming components. The clays, also known as kaoline rocks, are raw material for production of whiteware ceramics such as porcelain and bone china.

From the technology process point of view of, the fired products may be assigned to whiteware and stoneware. Whiteware ceramic clays, attaining almost 50% whiteness when fired at temperature of 1,300 °C, are used to produce porcelite and faiance. In turn, stoneware products are characterized by very low level of water absorption and high mechanical and chemical resistance.

The whiteware ceramic clays occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are kaolinite clays in sandstones of the Upper Cretaceous represented by Bolko II, Janina and Ocice deposits. The second are poorly coherent sandstones with cement rich in kaolinite represented by Janina-Zachód, Janina I and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

Ceramic clays deposits are presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2014 anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays amounted to 58.81 million tonnes and decreased by 0.15 million tonnes in comparison with the previous year mainly due to the exploitation of Janina I deposit. The exploitation increased by 7.3 thousand tonnes (5.4%) and amounted to 143.32 thousand tonnes. List of deposits is presented in table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Dolnośląskie and Świętokrzyskie Voivodeships). Single deposits are located in Łódzkie, Mazowieckie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

In 2014 anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 76.74 million tonnes and decreased by 0.61 million tonnes – due to the exploitation and overlooking of the resources within protecting pillars of Wierzbka 1 deposit. Anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 5.41 million tonnes (it accounts for 7% of total anticipated economic resources).

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2014, production of stoneware ceramic clays was equal 206 thousand tonnes (increased by 0.5%) and was coming from three deposits. The significant growth was noted for Baranów deposit (by 7 thousand tonnes) and the exploitation from Borkowice II deposit was started in 2014 (it amounted to 20 thousand tonnes). List of deposits is presented in table 4.

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Marcin Tymiński

2013

Ceramic clays are generally represented by sedimentary clays of marine or lacustrine origin and with minerals of the kaolinite and illite group as the major rock-forming components. The clays, also known as kaoline rocks, are raw material for production of whiteware ceramics such as porcelain and bone china.

From the technology process point of view of, the fired products may be assigned to whiteware and stoneware. Whiteware ceramic clays, attaining almost 50% whiteness when fired at temperature of 1,300 °C, are used to produce porcelite and faiance. In turn, stoneware products are characterized by very low level of water absorption and high mechanical and chemical resistance.

The whiteware ceramic clays occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are kaolinite clays in sandstones of the Upper Cretaceous represented by Bolko II, Janina and Ocice deposits. The second are poorly coherent sandstones with cement rich in kaolinite represented by Janina-Zachód, Janina I and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

Ceramic clays deposits are presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2013 anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays amounted to 58.96 million tonnes and decreased by 0.14 million tonnes in comparison with the previous year.

Production of whiteware ceramic clays was equal 136.02 thousand tonnes in 2013 and was coming only from the Janina I deposit (production increased by 44%). List of deposits is presented in table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Dolnośląskie and Świętokrzyskie Voivodeships). Single deposits are located in Łódzkie, Mazowieckie and Śląskie Voivodeships.

In 2013 anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 77.35 million tonnes and increased by 0.27 million tonnes – due to the new documentation with recalculated resources approved for Zebrzydowa Zachód deposit. Anticipated economic resources within exploited deposits amounted to 5.48 million tonnes (it accounts for 7% of total anticipated economic resources).

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2013, production of stoneware ceramic clays was equal 205 thousand tonnes (increased by 16%) and was coming from two deposits – Zebrzydowa Zachód (with production growth by 30 thousand tonnes) and Baranów (with drop of production by 2 thousand tonnes). List of deposits is presented in table 4.

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Janina Dyląg

2012

Ceramic clays are generally represented by sedimentary clays of marine or lacustrine origin and with minerals of the kaolinite and illite group as the major rock-forming components. The clays, also known as kaoline rocks, are raw material for production of whiteware ceramics such as porcelain and bone china.

From the point of view of process technology, the fired products may be assigned to whiteware and stoneware. Whiteware ceramic clays, attaining almost 50% whiteness when fired at temperature of 1,300 °C, are used to produce porcelite and faiance. In turn, stoneware products are characterized by very low level of water absorption and high mechanical and chemical resistance.

The whiteware ceramic clays occur only in Dolnośląskie Voivodeship. There are two types of deposits. First of them are kaolinite clays in sandstones of the Upper Cretaceous represented by Bolko II, Janina and Ocice deposits. The second are poorly coherent sandstones with cement rich in Kaolinite represented by Janina-Zachód, Janina I and Nowe Jaroszowice deposits. The usable fraction is separated from these rocks by water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

Ceramic clays deposits are presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2012 anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays amounted to 59.1 million tonnes and decreased by 0.1 million tonnes.

In 2012, production of white firing ceramic clays was equal 94.34 thousand tonnes and was coming only from the Janina I deposit. List of deposits is presented in table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Stoneware ceramic clays occur mainly in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country (Dolnośląskie and Świętokrzyskie Voivodeships).

In 2012 anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 77.08 million tonnes and decreased by 0.04 million tonnes.

In Paszkowice deposit there was underground mining abandoned in 2012 and therefore economic resources decreased by 3.91 million tonnes.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2012, production of stoneware ceramic clays was equal 177 thousand tonnes (decreased by 18%) and was coming from two deposits – Zebrzydowa Zachód and Baranów. List of deposits is presented in table 4.

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Janina Dyląg

2011

Ceramic clays are generally represented by sedimentary clays of marine or lacustrine origin and with minerals of the kaolinite and illite group as the major rock-forming components. The clays, also known as kaoline rocks, are raw material for production of whiteware ceramics such as porcelain and bone china.

From the point of view of process technology, the fired products may be assigned to whiteware and stoneware. Whiteware ceramic clays, attaining almost 50% whiteness when fired at temperature of 1,300 °C, are used to produce porcelite and faiance. In turn, stoneware products are characterized by very low level of water absorption and high mechanical and chemical resistance.

The majority of deposits of ceramic clays occur in the Lower Silesian region (Bolesławiec Clays) and the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship. The Bolko II, Janina and Ocice deposits of white firing stoneware clays are related to intercalations of kaolinite clays in sandstones of the Upper Cretaceous.

The other lithological type includes ceramic clay deposits such as Nowe Jaroszowice and Janina-Zachód and Janina I. These deposits are related to poorly coherent sandstones with cement rich in kaolinite. The usable fraction is separated from these rock by water-washing and the obtained concentrate contains about 30% of kaolinite clay.

Ceramic clays deposits are presented on the map.

Table 1 shows the current state of exploration and development of the above discussed deposits.

Table 1. Whiteware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2011 anticipated economic resources of whiteware ceramic clays amounted to 59.2 million tonnes and decreased by 0.14 million tonnes.

In 2011, production of white firing ceramic clays was equal 130.88 thousand tonnes and was coming from the Janina I deposit only. List of deposits is presented in table 2.

Table 2. List of whiteware ceramic clays deposits – thousand tonnes

Stoneware ceramic clays occur in the Lower Silesian region and central parts of the country.

In 2011 anticipated economic resources of stoneware ceramic clays amounted to 77.12 million tonnes and decreased by 0.22 million tonnes.

Table 3 shows the current state of exploration and development of these deposits.

Table 3. Stoneware ceramic clays – million tonnes

In 2011, production of stoneware ceramic clays was equal 215 thousand tonnes (increased by 16%) and was coming from three deposits – Zebrzydowa Zachód, Paszkowice and Baranów. List of deposits is presented in table 4.

Table 4. List of stoneware ceramic clays deposits- thousand tonnes

Prepared by: Janina Dyląg