Chemical content analysis of coral limestone as prospecting of extractive development in Gorontalo City

Abstract

The potential of limestone in Gorontalo City is very large and distributed over a wide area. This enormous potential has not yet been exploited. This study aims to determine the chemical content of limestone and the use solution of limestone to improve regional development. Field data collection was carried out in two places, namely Tanjung Keramat and Buli’ide. Sampling was conducted at the coordinates N 0°29′38.93″ and E 123°2′49.62″ for station 1, N 0°32′53.7″ and E 123°1′56.19″ for station 2. The method used in this research is chemical composition analysis using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). The results of the analysis of the chemical constituents of Coral Limestone are CaO 83.35%, Fe2O3 6.92%, SrO 9.35% and ZrO2 3.25%. The prospect of Coral Limestone can be used in various industrial fields. Coral Limestone can be used in the mining industry, the cement industry, the sugar industry, ceramic raw materials, building materials, agricultural and road stabilizers. This indicates that the City of Gorontalo has the prospect of development and utilization of limestone resources available, in order to encourage self-reliance and open employment for community.