CERIUM-BASED POLISHING COMPOUNDS - DISCOVERY TO MANUFACTURE

An overview of cerium as a polishing compound from discovery to manufacture is presented. The historical record of cerium began with its discovery in 1803. Although other grinding and polishing compounds were known from the 15th century, cerium's use as a glass polish did not begin until the 1930s. The mining, refining and recovery of cerium is reviewed with emphasis on the refining process. Cerium concentrates and compounds are manufactured into various grades of polishing compounds. Basic manufacturing processes are examined including calcining, milling and particle size classification. Following the mine-to-manufacture sequence, prices are traced from the ore, concentrate and oxide through to the polishing compound. Prices and principal applications for various polishing compounds are listed. Demand for US manufactured cerium polishing compounds has increased. Shipments doubled between 1985 and 1991. World demand is expected to continue to increase, especially in the rest of the world.