In order to clarify the advantages and significance of using desert sand to synthesize silicate materials, the author’ s team has on-site investigated four deserts, namely Hobq, Ulanbuh, Tengri and Badain Jaran in the western Inner Mongolia of China, collected sand samples around the deserts and studied their basic physical and chemical characteristics. The research and application of desert-sand materials at home and abroad are also summarized, the social and economic benefits of using desert sand to synthesize silicate materials are expounded, and ultimately, the development prospects, main problems and countermeasures are pointed out. It is suggested that existing issues require comprehensive researches in term of the materials and manufacturing science, ecological environment, resource management, and policy to form a clear development goal and specific actions shared by the whole society. The results of this paper have important value for research, development, and application of desert-sand materials, exploitation of mineral resources, and desertization governance.

silicate materials  /  saving resources  /  ecological environment  /  desert governance  /  sustainable development