Processing of Yandev quicklime for potential amelioration of acidic soil

This study focused on processing of Yandev quicklime for potential amelioration of acidic soil. It involved production of quicklime from the Yandev limestone, characterization and slaking of the quicklime. In a batch process, 10g of the limestone (90mm particle size) was calcined for 3hrs to produce the quicklime. Mineralogical composition of the quicklime was determined by X-ray Diffractometer (XRD), while scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine its surface morphology. The CaO was hydrated for the production of slaked lime (Ca (OH) 2). The slaking process was carried out by digesting CaO in distilled water. During the slaking/hydration process, values of reactivity (rise in temperature) were recorded. Central composite design (CCD) tool of Design Expert Software 11 was used to design the experiment of the slaking process. Quicklime/water ratio, particle size and time were the considered slaking variables, while reactivity was considered as the response. Analysis of the results quicklime is made up of pure calcite with visible pores. Quadratic model adequately described the relationship between reactivity and the considered slaking factors of quicklime/water ratio, particle size and time. Optimum reactivity was obtained as 58.4 0C with the corresponding optimal factors of quicklime/water ratio (0.26 g/ml), particle size (93.0 µm) and time (16.4 minutes). Properties of the slaked lime showed that it is suitable for acidic soil amelioration.