MINERALOGICAL STUDY OF KALAMBAINA LIMESTONE AND ITSINDUSTRIAL SIGNIFICANCE

Abstract

This study investigates the mineralogical composition, geochemical characteristics, andindustrial potential of the Kalambaina Limestone within the Sokoto Basin, northwesternNigeria. The research integrates field mapping, petrographic examination, and X-rayfluorescence (XRF) analysis to determine the quality and industrial suitability of thelimestone. Field investigations revealed that the Kalambaina Formation consistspredominantly of soft, whitish, fossiliferous limestone underlain by the Dange Formationand overlain by the Gwandu Formation, suggesting a Paleocene shallow marinedepositional environment. Petrographic analysis of thin sections under plane- and crosspolarized light identified calcite as the dominant mineral, with minor dolomite, quartz, andclay minerals. The limestone displays a fine micritic matrix with patches of sparry calcite,indicating post-depositional recrystallization. XRF results show high CaO (76.60%) andlow MgO (0.97%) contents, with minor oxides of SiO₂ (11.60%), Al₂O₃ (2.73%), and Fe₂O₃(6.06%), confirming a chemically mature, high-calcium limestone. Trace element data,including elevated Sr and S values, reflect marine influence with limited terrigenous input.Integrating the petrographic and geochemical data indicates that the Kalambaina Limestonemeets industrial-grade standards for cement and lime production, with additional potentialfor use in agriculture, metallurgy, and environmental management. The study concludesthat the Kalambaina deposit is a high-quality, economically viable carbonate resource ofnational importance, and recommends further geotechnical and reserve quantificationstudies to enhance its sustainable utilization