Phosphorite Rock Phosphates (or phosphorites) are sedimentary phosphatic deposits comprising a fine-grained mixture of various calcium phosphates, the most important being hydroxyl-apatite, carbonate-apatite, fluor-apatite and their solid solutions. About 80% of phosphate production in the world is derived from phosphate rocks (phosphorite) containing one or more phosphatic minerals. Uses Rock phosphate is used primarily as a plant nutrient, either by direct application to the soil as a powdered product or in the manufacture of superphosphate, triple superphosphate, or diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizers. Elemental phosphorus and phosphoric chemicals derived from phosphate rock are also used in detergents, insecticides, matches, fireworks, military smoke screen, incendiary bombs, and other products. Sources Geological Survey of India National Mineral Inventory - An Overview