EVALUATION OF THE SUITABILITY OF BEKUMA MARBLE DEPOSIT FOR DIMENSION STONE PRODUCTION

Abstract

This research was carried out to assess the suitability of Bekuma marble deposit for dimension block production. The reserve of the deposit was evaluated using rectangular method of reserve estimation and tested for physical, mechanical and chemical properties, as well as economic viability. In the study, the tests that were carried out included; porosity, water absorption, slake durability, uniaxial compression and the X-ray diffraction analysis. The results of the analysis from the two formations were compared with each other to project the economic feasibility of the research work. The reserve of the Bekuma formation study was estimated to be 79.3 x 106 tonnes. The results of formation I for Uniaxial Compressive strength, porosity, water absorption, Slake durability were; 172 MPa, 0.502%, 88.7 and 89.3% respectively. Formation two results for Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS), porosity, water absorption and slake durability were: 136 MPa, 0.868 %, 36.32 and 52.1 % respectively. The discontinuity mapping carried out on the two formations revealed that, Formation I had less and scattered micro fractures with wide spacing. Formation I marble had a sound economic standing with inexhaustible reserves, dense strength, white and blackish aesthetic appearance. Formation II showed intense fracturing and brittleness which makes it unsuitable for dimension block production. Analytical dependences have been specified making it possible to evaluate the marble deposit reserve, mechanical characteristic and the suitability of the deposit for dimension block production. The studied marble deposit revealed two formation results from diagenesis differentia. The test quarry carried out by development of a 50m by 50m size using Dozer D8k and Excavator 320BL. A diamond cutting machine was used to cut the formation vertically and horizontally. A test block of 4m by 3m by 2m was achieved. The cut section of the formation further confirmed the suitability of the formation for dimension stone production. Bekuma marble formation I analytically suit production of dimension block. This study helps to create alternative use for the deposit and means of raw material for tiles and other slab manufacturing industries.