Evaluation of the Geochemical Compositions of Western Anatolia (Turkey) Volcanic Rocks and Their Suitability for Rock Fiber Production with the Help of Fiber Modules

Recently, rock fibers have gained attention as versatile and promising substitutes for traditional carbon and glass fibers in a range of industries, including aerospace, defence, construction, and healthcare. Shifting to the use of rock fibers represents a more sustainable and environmentally considerate approach to using natural resources. This transition likely reflects efforts to reduce reliance on less sustainable materials (such as traditional carbon and glass fibers), thereby aligning with broader goals of sustainable resource management and environmental protection. Additionally, their asbestos-free nature in construction materials makes them a healthier industrial raw material, avoiding the health hazards associated with asbestos exposure. As a result, there has been a growing interest in research initiatives aimed at evaluating the potential of volcanic rocks from diverse geographic regions for fiber production. This trend reflects an increased emphasis on understanding the geochemical properties and commercial viability of these rocks in the context of sustainable material development. Turkey's abundant volcanic rock resources offer substantial opportunities for the production of rock fibers. Recent preliminary investigations into the volcanic rocks of Central Anatolia have indicated their suitability for rock fiber production. Within the scope of this study, it is aimed to specifically evaluate the potential of Western Anatolian volcanoes for rock fiber production. Geochemical data obtained in previous studies from volcanic rocks of Western Anatolia (Afyonkarahisar, Denizli, Eskişehir, İzmir, Kütahya, Manisa, Muğla, Uşak) were used. The chemical compositions of 241 rock samples with SiO₂ content of less than 63% by weight were evaluated. Using this data, key descriptive coefficients relevant to rock fiber production were calculated, including the total acidity coefficient (K_total), total acidity modulus (M_total), acidity modulus (M_a), and viscosity modulus (M_v). These metrics were then compared with those derived from rocks from Ukraine, Georgia, and Russia, currently deemed suitable for rock fiber production. Conclusively, this research highlights the potential of Western Anatolian volcanoes as viable sources for rock fiber production.