Heritage Cases

Idwala currently operates a Pyrophyllite mine located near Ottosdal in the North West Province. This deposit’s life of mine (LOM) is nearing the end. Idwala, therefore, has to source another similar deposit to replace the current one. Several potential deposits have been evaluated and the one located within Farm Portion 19 of the Farm Syferfontein 303IP was the most viable option. The extent of the area applied for; under the ambit of the Mining Right application is approximately 149 hectares. Assessment of the geological data available has determined that the above-mentioned area is suitable for mining the mineral pyrophyllite - a hydrous aluminium silicate with a structure similar to the mineral talc. Mining this deposit also ensures that the current staff compliment remain employed. Idwala is the currently the largest producer of pyrophyllite in South Africa. This market base therefore needs to be maintained. Major markets for pyrophyllite are paint, paper, synthetic diamond manufacture, resin filler and refractory applications, which account for the majority of total sales. Niche/ growth markets for pyrophyllite include specific refractories, wear chute linings, special paints, chromic acid pots, wire drawing, new crucible products, import replacement in the paper industry, personal healthcare, brake linings, white cements and other civil applications. In the high-value pyrophyllite market, international competition is intense. These markets include refractories, synthetic diamond manufacture, kiln furniture and wear-linings.