CHARACTERIZATION OF ASHAKA LIMESTONE FOR POTENTIAL DIVERSIFICATION OF ITS APPLICATIONS

This study is on the characterization of Ashaka limestone for potential diversification of its applications. The analyses were performed on finely ground sample of the limestone. X-ray Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to determine the chemical compositions of the limestone. Its mineralogical composition was determined by X-ray Diffractometer (XRD). Size analysis of the limestone was carried out, and scanning electron microscope, (SEM) was used to study the surface morphology of the sample. Analyses of the results revealed that Ashaka limestone has CaO (66.9%) as the predominant constituent in respect of chemical composition, and calcite as the major mineral. Density Functional Theory (DFT) cumulative surface area of the limestone is 1.041 X/g. Langmuir method of size analysis grossly estimated the surface area, while DFT method yields reliable surface area and pore volume measurements. The DFT adequately accounted for the effects of microporocity. The surface morphology of the limestone sample showed that the particles are packed together in powdered form with visible pores that will allow passage of fluids. Ashaka limestone is a potential source of acidic soil ameliorant. Thus, besides using it for cement production, it should be diversified into its application in agriculture (in terms of acidic soil amelioration).