Make a list of items where substitutes are being used instead of minerals. Where are these substitut

Question

Make a list of items where substitutes are being used instead of minerals. Where are these substitutes obtained from?

Accepted Answer

Substitutes are increasingly used to replace minerals:
- **Plastics for Metals:** PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is used for pipes instead of copper or iron. It is derived from petrochemicals.
- **Fibre Optics for Copper:** Optical fibre cables are used for telecommunications instead of copper wires. They are made from silica (glass).
- **Composites for Steel/Aluminium:** Carbon fibre composites are used in aerospace and automotive parts instead of steel or aluminium. They are derived from polymers.
- **Engineered Wood for Natural Timber:** Plywood and MDF are used in furniture instead of solid wood.