Some High-Calcium Limestones in Kansas

Abstract

Industries in Kansas and adjacent states have a growing need for local sources of high-calcium limestone. In order to help fill this need the Geological Survey undertook a study of selected limestones; a more complete inventory is under way. Chemical analyses of 14 limestones from 18 locations were made. Evaluation of chemical characteristics with known specifications for quick and hydrated lime, metallurgical lime and limestone, chemical and industrial uses, and glass and glass-fiber industries was made. Three of the limestones compare favorably with the highest grade of high-calcium limestones being used at the present time; the average calcium (plus magnesium) carbonate content is 98.5 percent (the range is 97.7 to 99.1 percent). Half the samples showed an average calcium (plus magnesium) carbonate content of 97.6 percent and the other half averaged 95.4 percent. Sulfur and phosphorus were not present in deleterious amounts in any of the samples. Silica, alumina, and ferric oxide make up the remainder of the constituents.