Evaluation of slay composition in the sediments of the Mohamed Ben Abdelkrim El Khattabi Dam, Beni Bouayach, Northern Morocco

Abstract

This research analyses and identifies clays from the Mohamed Ben Abdelkrim El Khattabi dam in Beni Bouayach, northern Morocco, to assess their suitability for various applications. The study employed X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence, infrared spectroscopy, and physicochemical methods. Elemental analysis revealed high silicon and calcium levels alongside iron, aluminum, potassium, titanium, sulfur, manganese, and trace amounts of zinc, nickel, and chromium. These components suggest a clay composed mainly of montmorillonite, calcite, and quartz. The physicochemical characteristics included a neutral pH of 7.6, an average density of 2.04 g/cm3, a 16.01% moisture content, a swelling index above 0.65%, and a 0.64% loss on ignition. The XRD results support these findings. Infrared spectroscopy shows two prominent absorption bands: one at 3620 cm-1, linked to the -OH group, and another indicative of SiO4 and AlO4 tetrahedral units at approximately 400 cm-1 and 600 cm-1, respectively. The comprehensive analysis of this study reveals the clay composition and provides valuable insights into its potential industrial applications. Various elements and specific physicochemical properties suggest that these clays could be valuable in industries requiring specific mineral compositions and characteristics. This work lays the groundwork for future exploration and exploitation of these natural resources, highlighting their potential in diverse fields.