OTHER MINERAL RESOURCES
In the future, new uses will be made of the Illinois industrial minerals already discussed. In addition, other mineral resources of the state that are not now being used may be the bases of new mineral industries. Some of these minerals are at present too costly to mine because the deposits are deeply buried or are not sufficiently rich to be worked at a profit. Others are not convenient to markets, and still others have no present commercial use. In years to come, however, changes may occur that will make it practical to mine, process, and use some of these resources. Furthermore, some other mineral deposits that are now being utilized in a limited way may have greater future use. The Illinois Geological Survey continues to study the location, character, and composition of many such mineral materials and is alert for the development of new uses. Some of the materials are discussed briefly below.
Figure 22—Peat from Kane County showing its fibrous nature and remains of plants.