limestone

1. GLYZA MAYE B. MAGDUA - Group leader #5
GEOLOGY FOR CIVIL
ENGINEERS
LIMESTONE

2. LIMESTONE
Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium
carbonate (CaCO3) in the form of the mineral calcite. There are
many exceptional kinds of limestone formed thru a ramification
of tactics. It may be precipitated from water ( non-clastic,
chemical or inorganic limestone), secreted by using marine
organisms including algae and coral (biochemical limestone), or
can shape from the shells of lifeless sea creatures (bioclastic
limestone). Some limestones form from the cementation of sand
and / or mud by way of calcite ( clastic limestone), and these
often have the appearance of sandstone or mudstone.
INTRODUCTION

3. COMPOSITION
LIMESTONE
• Limestone is primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in
the form of the mineral calcite.
• It may also contain other minerals such as dolomite
(CaMg(CO3)2), clay minerals, and other impurities.
• The purity of limestone depends on the geological conditions
under which it formed.
• Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is typically white, gray, or
tan in color, but it can also be found in various shades of blue,
green, pink, or red.
• It is often composed of small fossils or shell fragments, indicating
that it formed from the accumulation of calcium carbonate-rich
marine organisms, such as coral, shellfish, and algae.

4.  Most limestones have a granular texture. Their
constituent grains range in size from 0.001 mm
(0.00004 inch) to visible particles. In many cases, the
grains are microscopic fragments of fossil animal
shells.
 Clastic and Non Clastic Texture
 Rocks that have been weathered, eroded, and
deposited are called clastic rocks.
 Non-clastic rocks are created when water evaporates
or from the remains of plants and animals.
TEX TURE
LIMESTONE

5. OCCURRENCE
LIMESTONE
• It forms from the accumulation of shells, coral, and other debris of marine
organisms, as well as the precipitation of calcium carbonate from seawater.
• The process of limestone formation typically occurs in shallow, warm, marine
environments where the accumulation and compaction of sedimentary
materials takes place over long periods of time.
• Limestone can also form from the evaporation of water in caves and other
confined spaces.
• Limestone is found all over the world, with some of the largest and most
extensive deposits located in the United States, China, and Europe.

6. Usage in any engineering projects
LIMESTONE
Calcium Carbonate (Limestone) in Cement:
A large portion of the cement composition is composed of Limestone. The presence of limestone
gives satisfactory concrete strength, durability, and workability. Limestone is added to the cement
because, when mortar or concrete is prepared, the presence of limestone makes the cement to
react with water and produce an adhesive property in the cement. It improves the compacting,
hardening, and adhesive quality of the cement.
Limestone in the decoration of Buildings:
Apart from being used in the construction material of the building structure, limestone is widely
used as a decorative material for the buildings. The white color of the limestone is fascinating, thus
it is used in whitewash and painting of houses and buildings.

7. Other Uses of Calcium Carbonate (Limestone):
LIMESTONE
 It is used as the basic raw material for the manufacturing of calcium oxide
(quicklime), calcium hydroxide (slake lime), mortar, and cement.
 A type of limestone known as pulverized limestone, which is used as a soil
conditioner. It neutralizes the acidic nature of the soil.
 Limestone can be crushed in small coarse, pebbles, and gravels to make aggregate.
 It can be used as asphalt concrete.
 Limestone stone is used in filling the gaps of pavers.

8. Distinctive Qualities of Limestone which makes it to be used in Construction:
LIMESTONE
Strength and durability of Limestone:
As the blocks of limestone are cut from a natural source, therefore, their durability and
strength are higher than other artificially made bricks. Constructors prefer limestone brick
on other types of bricks and blocks.
Readily Availability of Limestone deposits:
Almost in all the countries of the world, huge deposits of limestone are available. The ready
availability of limestone makes its use very economical. Its excavation is also very easy. The
layers of sedimentary limestone are easily dismantled and separated from the quarry.

9. LIMESTONE
Limestone is Weather Resistant:
The limestone bricks are weather resistant. It is resistant to sulfate attack and other
chemical attacks. The rapid fall and increase in temperature in days and nights also seldom
influence surface stability. Unlike other types of bricks, the limestone bricks are not eroded
with rainfall and waterlogged areas.
Limestone is Bad Conductor of Heat:
Almost all the rocks of white color are bad conductor of heat. Limestone because of its
being non-crystalline and white in color makes it a poor conductor to the heat. In the
warmer regions of the country, limestone brick is a bad conductor of heat. This means that
homes that are built with limestone bricks will have a much cooler interior. It is a natural way
to keep a home cool without resorting to air conditioning.

10. Thank You
For your attention!