Evaluating the suitability of Avroman limestone, Halabja governorate for cement industry

Abstract EN

Limestone of Avroman Formation in Halabja Governorate – Kurdistan Region, northeast Iraq were subjected to elemental and mineralogical analysis by X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction, as well as petrophysical and mechanical study with the aim of accessing its extent as potential raw material for manufacturing Portland cement.

The results reflect rising the concentrations of CaO and loss on ignition, and the decrease of the concentrations of SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, SO3, Na2O, K2O, and insoluble residue, According to these geochemical properties, the tested samples are reliable as carbonate component for cement industry.

Mineralogical study shows that calcite is the main component of limestone samples which is more than 99% of the total constituent.

The petrophysical tests reflect the increase of total density, apparent specific gravity, and the decrease of porosity and moisture content of the samples and most of the studied samples are in agreement with natural ranges for carbonate rocks used in cement industry.

The mechanical tests reflect high compressive strength of the studied samples and it can be concluded that the processes of crushing and grinding need a suitable force (energy) during the extraction of samples from the quarry.

The estimated raw mixture and clinker composition are calculated and the results show that all samples are in agreement with standard specification for production of Portland cement.