RETRACTED ARTICLE: Exploring Talc Deposits: Physical Characteristics, Geological Factors, and Formation in Ultramafic and Mafic Rocks—A Comprehensive Review

Talc, a versatile hydrous magnesium silicate mineral, is of considerable industrial importance due to its unique properties. A thorough understanding of the geology and mineralogy of talc deposits is essential for optimizing extraction, locating potential mining sites, and maximizing economic returns. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the geology and mineralogy of talc deposits in Egypt, focusing on their formation, distribution, and mining potential within ultramafic and mafic rock environments. Egyptian talc deposits are primarily associated with ultramafic rocks, such as serpentinites and highly sheared meta-basalts, shaped by complex geological processes. Mineralogical analysis shows that these deposits, which can consist of up to 95% talc, strongly influence their physical properties and commercial appeal. The review categorizes talc deposits by structure, noting variations like shear pods and lenticular crystals, each with distinct challenges and opportunities for mining. Structural planes of weakness in host rocks are found to play a key role in talc concentration, impacting exploration and extraction strategies. Quantitative data suggests that these structural planes can improve extraction efficiency, with well-mapped areas achieving recovery rates above 85%. Egypt's prominence as a talc producer is supported by its favorable geological landscape, with production increasing by 20% annually over the past five years. This review provides critical insights for industry stakeholders, emphasizing the economic viability of Egypt's talc resources. With global demand for talc rising due to its applications in cosmetics, plastics, and ceramics, a nuanced understanding of its geology and mineralogy is vital for sustainable mining and resource management. In summary, this review offers a comprehensive assessment of Egypt's talc deposits, highlighting their complex formation, varied characteristics, and economic potential, thereby providing actionable insights for industry professionals and investors. Our review on Egyptian talc deposits offers a comprehensive and insightful overview of the mineral's geology, mineralogy, and economic potential. Highlighting the associations of talc with ultramafic rocks such as serpentinites and meta-basalts captures the geological complexity, while discussing structural planes and shear zones brings attention to the practical challenges in extraction. The emphasis on quantitative data, including the high recovery rates in mapped areas, makes the review particularly valuable for industry professionals. Furthermore, mentioning the global demand for talc in industries like cosmetics, plastics, and ceramics strengthens the case for investment in these deposits. The structured approach covering formation, distribution, mining potential, and economic viability provides a solid framework that industry stakeholders will find actionable.