Primary Materials Processing

Since 1790, newly discovered materials, new uses for old materials, better and cheaper isolation and preparation techniques, and new derivative materials made from those already known, contributed significantly to higher American living standards.   Of the 91 naturally occurring elements found on earth, the fundamental materials from which all other materials are made, 63 were discovered since 1790, our base reference year.   The properties and contributions of 52 elements useful in various industries are listed alphabetically and by year of discovery.   More complex materials that contributed significantly to living standards fall into the following groups:

Biomass
Coal and Coal Products
DNA and RNA
Food and Feed
Glass and Ceramic Products
Iron and Steelmaking
Natural Gas
Natural Gas Products
Paper and Paper Products
Petroleum
Petroleum Products
Rubber and Rubber Products
Semiconductors
Steel Alloys
Wood and Wood Products

Natural Compounds:

• Sodium Chloride, NaCl ("salt")
• Limestone, CaCO₃
• Nitrates
• Phosphates