Two North Carolina facilities that produce high-purity quartz used in semiconductors and other tech products have suspended operations following Hurricane Helene. Sibelco and The Quartz Corp halted their activities in Spruce Pine as the storm caused significant damage, impacting the local community and economy, which heavily relies on these mines. Both companies are prioritizing the safety of their employees while assessing the situation, but the local town council member emphasized the urgency of restoring operations due to the economic challenges many families face. The quartz from Spruce Pine is instrumental in manufacturing the equipment needed for silicon chip production, with an estimated majority of global crucibles sourced from this area.
