OUR MISSIONS

From extraction to conversion, Imerys has a technological and industrial lead that allows it to draw maximum benefit from its mineral portfolio. Its integrated industrial model from deposit to end customer delivers flexibility, an optimized cost base and excellence in customer service.


Drawing maximum value from mining assets
Imerys has in-depth knowledge of the specific properties of each mineral in the various grades and applications that provide most value. The refining and conversion tools used to purify minerals and adapt them to precise industrial applications are adjusted for optimum functioning with a given reserve grade.

Whether directly or through research partnerships with institutes and universities, the Group has developed many exclusive processes, technologies and products that it strives to protect. Imerys particularly has cutting-edge know-how in grinding, particle grading, surface chemistry, suspension rheology, calcination and high-temperature melting. On an industrial scale, this enables it to achieve the purity, size, shape or distribution of particles that will make best use of the properties required for a given application.

Developing and improving the industrial base
In all its activities, Imerys constantly optimizes its industrial assets to adapt to market trends, keep its fixed costs under control and improve its flexibility and competitiveness. In 2009, all the business group’s activities reduced their output in order to cut inventory and adjust to demand. A number of development projects were finalized.

• Minerals for Refractories continued to invest in andalusite production assets in South Africa and China.

• Performance Minerals rationalized production, particularly among its various North American units.

• The Pigments for Paper business group continued its strategic development in Asia with the commissioning of two new plants in India (Amritsar and Bhadrachalam) which will enable it to take advantage of calcium carbonates growth in this area, by accompanying major domestic customers.

• In Building Materials, modernization of the Wardrecques (Nord) roof tile plant and optimization of the La Boissière du Doré (Loire-Atlantique) brick plant were completed to improve manufacturing efficiency.