Geochemical, Geotechnical, and Validity Evaluation of the Nfayil Formation Limestone for Portland Cement Industry at Diwaniyah Governorate, Iraq

Abstract

The limestone of the Nfayil Formation was studied in Diwaniya Governorate, west Euphrates River, southern Iraq. The analyses of the Geochemical and Geotechnical properties showed that the Nfayil Formation limestone is suitable for the Portland cement industry. The results indicated that the averages are 91% lime, 4.9% magnesia, and 0.4% alkalis. While, the average uniaxial compressive strength is 95 mega N/m², reflecting high toughness on average. These oxide percentages are expected to theoretically achieve the mineral phases of the produced clinker when using Bogue equations, which are compatible with international standards. This studied site contributes extra quantities to the reserves of limestone raw materials suitable for the cement industry. It opens prospects for establishing a new cement factory close to cities in central Iraq.