The Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) put out a large fire at a mineral plant Friday morning, after evacuating the surrounding area.

The fire occurred at 3450 Avenue B, and firefighters were dispatched at 11:40 a.m.

The plant, operated by Performance Minerals Corp. (PMC), produces calcium sulfate based industrial fillers. PMC is based in Birmingham and also operates in Anniston. 

Fire officials said there was a large amount of smoke showing and received a report of an unknown chemical in the plant.

Because of the unknown chemical and the structure of the building, the BFRS evacuated everyone within 1,500 feet. 

The evacuation has now been lifted. Around 3 p.m., the BFRS announced that the fire was under control.

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