Physicochemical and mineralogical characterization of silica sand from the Lemi region, Blue Nile Basin, central Ethiopia: Evaluating industrial applications and resource potential.

ABSTRACT

Silica sand is an essential industrial mineral composed predominantly of quartz, formed through the weathering of rocks. In Ethiopia, silica deposits are geologically widespread, including the Lemi area in the Blue Nile Basin. This study investigates the physicochemical and mineralogical properties of silica sand from the Lemi region to determine its suitability for industrial applications. Samples from four villages in Lemi were collected, prepared, and analyzed using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), grain size analysis, bulk density measurement, and geochemical analysis. The results indicate that Lemi silica sand is predominantly composed of medium-sized, well-sorted, sub-rounded to rounded quartz grains with high silica purity (average SiO2 content of 96.13 %). Mineralogical analysis confirms high crystallinity and a low presence of contaminants. The grain size distribution and bulk density of Lemi silica sand meet industry standards for glass, foundry, and abrasive applications. Comparative analysis shows that Lemi silica sand has comparable or superior qualities to other Ethiopian deposits, making it a promising resource for industrial use. The study estimates a total resource of approximately 6.94 billion tons of silica sand in the Lemi area, highlighting its significant economic potential.