Moses Ogbochi Ogar^1,, Abiodun Ogunjinmi², Alfred Navokhi Apaji³, Akinwole Ifeoluwa Emmanuel², Joshua Dan Oroshioshemeh⁴

This study provides a thorough geological, chemical, and mechanical assessment of the Itobe marble deposit in central Nigeria, with the objective of clarifying its viability as a sustainable resource for high-quality construction materials. The research, which incorporates mineralogical analysis, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), density and porosity measurements, as well as mechanical testing, identifies calcite as the predominant mineral component, exhibiting negligible impurities. Chemical assays verify a substantial calcium carbonate content, correlating the deposit's composition with recognized requirements for cement manufacturing. Physical analyses reveal minimal porosity and a dense interior structure, suggesting restricted permeability and favorable durability attributes. The mechanical evaluation, including Vickers hardness and strength testing, highlights the marble's advantageous load-bearing capability and durability against surface damage, establishing it as a strong contender for cement production and direct use in structural elements. The positive geological, chemical and mechanical properties combine to make Itobe marble a strategic local material that is suitable for the Nigerian construction industry and may therefore be one of the choices for the development and move towards resource-efficient and sustainable material alternatives. This holistic study sets a reference for the better use of local marble in advanced civil construction.

Marble, construction, mineralogical, mechanical, porosity, density