Silicon, the major raw material used in the manufacture of solar panels, requires an energy-intensive process to turn it into solar-grade silicon.

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In the Middle Ages it was discovered to be a rich source of aluminium sulphate - a crucial raw material used as a fixing agent in dyeing cloth.

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On the cost front too, we believe the company will continue to experience pressures despite the falling price of guar gum, a key raw material used in hydraulic fracturing.

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These raw material inputs are used to make many processed products in a number of primary manufacturing industries, including steel, aluminum and various chemical industries.

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But it, like many other chemical companies, feel the pain more acutely because petroleum is used as a raw material and to transport their goods.

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Like many chemical companies, Huntsman suffered from rapidly escalating petroleum costs, which is used as a raw material, to power its processes and transport its goods.

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But some are also thought to harbour water ice, which could be used as a raw material for the manufacture of rocket propellant or even breathable air.

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The raw material is converted into soda ash, used in detergents and pharmaceuticals and in the manufacturing of glass.

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The Yuki-tsumugi technique is employed to produce pongee silk (also called raw silk) - a light and warm material with a characteristic stiffness and softness, traditionally used to make kimonos.

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