X-Ray Analysis of Igbokoda Sand, Southwestern Nigeria and its Application in Manufacturing and Construction Industries

Abstract

Soils that appear whitish in colour is generally believed to contain mineral called quartz. Quartz is a metamorphic rock which is beneficial to manufacturing and construction industries. This quartz has been discovered in Igbokoda area of Ondo state, south western Nigeria. This study confirmed and examined the nature and abundance of quartz found in the study area for the purpose of recommendation to manufacturing and construction industries. Soil samples were collected within the area and examined. Geotechnical and x-ray analyses were conducted on the sample. A Phillip 71011 Goniometer at 55MA and 40K was used to X-ray the sample at 2o /2θ/min/cm. The radiation and filter used were Copper and Nickel respectively. The specific gravity obtained classified the sample as sandy soil; the grain size distribution result according to AASHTO classified the sample as fine sand. The X-ray result confirmed that Quartz is the most abundant mineral in the sample with peak value of wavelength at 4.33Ao, 3.56Ao, 3.43Ao, 2.43Ao, 2.28Ao, 2.25Ao, 2.10Ao, 1.97Ao. Also, Kaolinite and Vermiculite traces appeared at 6.81Ao and 11.05Ao respectively. It was established that Igbokoda sand is dominated with quartz. It is therefore recommended that industries like fabricating industries can be located around the area to tap the mineral as raw material. The soil in the area is also suitable as sub base material in road construction