Evaluation Of Industrial Potentials Of Alluvial Clays From The Confluence Of Rivers Niger And Mimi

Abstract

Physio-chemical and mineralogical studies were carried out on alluvial clay samples obtained from the confluence of River Niger and Mimi River in lokoja (Kogi state), to determine their suitability for industrial applications. Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) analysis of the composite sample indicated very low levels of alumina (13.76%) and silica (27.18%). The alkaline earth (CaO) and alkali (K₂O) minerals were 1.17% and 2.68% respectively. Other impurities such as TiO₂ and CuO were in traces. The % Fe₂O₃ was 5.82. X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated laumontite as the main clay mineral phase in the composite sample with minor amounts of plancheite, Hibonite-5H, Sym; and Chlorocalcite. The unified classification of the composite sample indicates the clay sample has limited industrial potential because of the high silty organic content. However, the clay sample is suitable for making building blocks, traditional ceramic pots and insulation bricks. The clay may be beneficiated to enhance its porosity for application as an adsorbent.