Silica (SiO₂) is a mineral composed of silicon and oxygen and is one of the most abundant materials in the Earth’s crust. It mainly occurs as quartz and has been used for thousands of years in industries such as glass, ceramics, and modern technologies like computer chips.

Silica is extracted from natural deposits such as sand, sandstone, and quartzite, typically through open-pit mining. For industrial applications, a high purity level is required (usually at least 95% SiO₂).

Due to its hardness, heat resistance, and chemical stability, silica is widely used in applications such as casting, filtration, and glass production. In addition, its high absorbency and odor control properties make it an excellent—one of the most effective—materials for cat litter.

After extraction, it is processed (washed, screened, and purified) to achieve the desired quality and grain size.