X-Ray Diffraction Characterization of Sedimentary Rocks in Demsa Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria

This work involves the qualitative analysis and mineral (elemental) composition of rock samples in six sites (locations) in Adamawa State (Kenya) using several physical properties including colour, streak, hardness, specific gravity, luster, magnetism, taste and reactions to Hydrochloric acid (HCl). X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy was used in the identification of minerals in rock samples including:calcite, quartz, rutile, augite, srebrodolskite, sanidine and plagioclase. The samples were analyzed using an Emission-Transmission spinner stage with the theta-theta settings. Two theta starting positions were 0.0001 ending at 75,000, with a two steps 0.026 at 3.57 seconds per step. The tube current was 40mA and a generator voltage of 45V untilizing a copper anode. Qualitative analysis indicated the presence of carbonate ions in all the rock samples. Calcite was found to be predominant in four study locations. Therefore the possibility to harness calcite for indigenous economic development is possible.