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.
[Illustration: Figure 22—Peat from Kane County showing its fibrous
nature and remains of plants.]