The Chemours Company, a global chemistry company with leading market positions in titanium technologies, thermal and specialized solutions, and advanced performance materials, invited key community stakeholders and legislators to a ribbon cutting event on Oct. 14 to officially recognize the startup of its newest mineral sand mine, Trail Ridge South. The new mining operation represents a $93 million investment that will create approximately 50 new jobs in the three-county area.
The more than 30-acre project to expand its mining operations will allow Chemours – the only domestic producer of titanium and zirconium minerals and one of only two domestic producers of rare earth minerals – to have additional access to these high-quality concentrated deposits used to produce Chemours’ Ti-Pure brand of titanium dioxide (TiO₂).
“A reliable supply of quality ilmenite and other minerals is critical to our ability to serve customers. Sourcing those resources from a community we’re already so deeply connected to makes it even better – it’s a win-win,” said Mark Smith, vice president of operations for Chemours’ titanium technologies. “We’re incredibly proud to call Clay County home and look forward to many years of safe operations and partnership.”
Chemours’ sand mining approach uses environmentally responsible processes that have minimal impact on the environment and provides for full land reclamation when mining is complete. Constructed in approximately 13 months, the Trail Ridge South facility was designed using a modularization concept, where modules were built off-site and then shipped to the site for assembly.
Modularization allows the facility to be more easily moved in a shorter timeframe at the end of the mining life of the site, which is anticipated to be approximately eight years. The new mining facility took 150,000 man-hours to construct with zero recordable injuries. In addition, the site’s leaders worked closely with state and federal regulatory agencies to obtain required permits and ensure there was no adverse impact to the environment.
In addition, Trail Ridge South will incorporate Mobile Mining Units (MMUs) that address environmental concerns with traditional dredge mining. The MMUs allow the site to have much lower emissions, reduced dust levels, and improved safety by removing conventional hauling trucks.
In addition, the facility will recycle 98% of the water used in the manufacturing process – providing sustainable solutions while still meeting the Chemours’ commitment to process minerals. Trail Ridge South process water and water treatment ponds are all constructed above ground, with approximately 39 million gal. of storage capacity.
“Chemours is a great community partner, and they have invested significantly in the Bradford and Clay County area by providing good-paying jobs and contributing donations and outreach to their local communities. Whether their employees are helping with a Keystone Heights lakes cleanup with Keep Clay Beautiful, or donating funds for STEM projects, Chemours is committed to helping their neighbors, and we look forward to the company’s long-term success in our state and this region in particular,” said Rep. Bobby Payne (R-Fla.) 19th District. “In addition, Chemours provides vital sources of minerals such as titanium found specifically in our North Florida area that supply the world’s needs in many different products.”
With open positions still available, Trail Ridge South is hiring for operators, technicians, heavy equipment operators, and mechanics. Chemours offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package. For those who do not have mining experience, Chemours offers an apprentice program. Interested applicants can learn more and apply by visiting its Minerals Jobs Page.