Trona

Trona is a naturally occurring mineral composed mainly of sodium carbonate and bicarbonate. It forms in alkaline lakes when mineral-rich waters evaporate, leaving behind deposits of trona. This mineral is the primary raw material used to produce soda ash (sodium carbonate), which is vital for manufacturing glass, paper, detergents, and various chemicals. Trona mining involves extracting large deposits from underground or surface deposits, and then processing it to produce high-purity soda ash. Its role is essential in industries that require basic, versatile chemicals for production processes.