[Rockhounds] mineral exhibit

[Axel Emmermann]

> The Mineral Information Institute indicates there are 35 
> minerals and metals in a computer. Why they distinguish 
> metals from minerals, I do not know. 

Maybe because some minerals are used "as is" in plastics and ceramics.
For example: micas and clay minerals are often used to enhance electric
insulation of plastics. Silica is used to reduce friction in sheet plastic.

Here's another: sulfur to vulcanize the rubber anti-friction pads under your
keyboard. Gallium, indium, arsenic for the LED lights. Chlorine in the PVC
of the power cables would come from halite. Magnetite for the floppy disks
and harrdive. 
Mercury and xenon for the UV lamps for hardening the glues, plastics and
varnishes are used for making your office but are no longer part of it. Do
you want to include those?

Cheers 
Axel