INDUSTRIAL EVALUATION OF KAOLINITIC ROCKS AROUND ESA – OKE AND ITS ENVIRONS, SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

Residual clay occurrences developed over Basement Complex psammitic rocks in Esa – Oke and its environs in southwestern Nigeria were mineralogically, chemically and physically investigated to evaluate their industrial properties. For the purpose of these investigations, a total number of seventeen (17) soil samples were randomly collected along the road cut. Each of the soil samples was divided into three (3) portions for different tests that were carried out. For mineralogical analysis, two representative clay samples were analyzed using X – ray diffractometer (XRD) at the Petrochemical Engineering Laboratory, Amadu Bello University, Zaria. Chemical analysis of five (5) different samples for major and trace elements using X- ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer were also done at the same Laboratory while the physical properties of thirteen (13) clay samples were carried out at Engineering Geology Laboratory, Federal University of Technology, Akure. Mineralogical analysis showed that kaolinite (43% - 48%) constitutes the dominant clay mineral while phlogopite (40%) and quartz (16% - 52%) made – up the non – clay minerals. Chemical data revealed that SiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 with values of 64%, 27% and 5% respectively constitutes about 90% of the bulk chemical composition. Physical properties assessment of industrial suitability showed that the clay bodies of the study area possess low – moderate mouldability, medium – high plasticity, low compressive strength and moderate water absorption capacity. The study concluded that, with appropriate processing and beneficiation, the clay could serve as raw materials for paints, bricks and structural wares.