Crushed And Ground Barite Sold Or Used By Processors In The United States, By Use

This table presents data on the quantities and values of crushed and ground barite sold or used by processors in the United States, categorized by end-use applications. The information encompasses both domestically mined and imported barite, reflecting its distribution across various industrial sectors such as barium chemicals, fillers, glass, paint, rubber, and well drilling. Understanding these figures is critical for assessing the economic impact of barite processing within the country, as barite is a key mineral used extensively in oil and gas drilling operations and manufacturing processes. Tracking changes in quantity and value over time helps stakeholders monitor market demand, supply chain dynamics, and the overall health of industries reliant on this mineral.

In 2023, the total quantity of crushed and ground barite sold or used by processors in the United States increased slightly to 2,260 thousand metric tons from 2,220 thousand metric tons in 2022, marking a modest growth in volume. More notably, the total value surged significantly from $321 million in 2022 to $504 million in 2023, indicating a substantial rise in market prices or shifts in product mix and demand. Data for specific end uses such as barium chemicals and well drilling were withheld to protect proprietary information, but the overall upward trend in value suggests increased industrial activity or higher barite prices, particularly in sectors like oil and gas drilling where barite is essential. This trend underscores the mineral’s continuing importance to the U.S. economy and highlights evolving market conditions in the mineral processing industry.