The mineral talc is produced at several Rio Tinto facilities in North America, Europe and Australia by the Luzenac group. The largest use of talc is in paper production. Other major uses include ceramics, plastics, paints and cosmetics. Luzenac carries out research and development studies, including with its customers, on new applications for talc. An example is the use of the mineral to enhance the performance of activated sewage treatment plants.

The company also has a number of programmes associated with understanding the impacts of the use of talc on the environment and human health.