Optimizing the Choice of Limestone Deposits for the Production of Portland Cement in Cameroon

Abstract

Despite the presence of raw materials (limestone and clay) deposits for Portland cement production, the major part of cement sold in Cameroon is from crushed imported clinker. This contributes to high cost of this material and reduction of local employment. In this study and based on existing data, a multi-criteria analysis tool was developed and applied to guide decision in the choice of limestone deposits in Cameroon for the production of Portland cement. The criteria evaluated were: calcium carbonate (CaCO 3) content of limestone, proximity of the limestone deposit to a qualified clay source, estimate of its capacity, area covered by the limestone deposit, extraction of limestone easiness, accessibility to the limestone deposit and the proximity of the limestone deposit to a source of energy. The study is conducted on twelve limestone deposits identified by previous studies around the country. The PROMETHEE II methodology used made it possible to highlight the best deposits with respect to the criteria set. The results showed in terms of preference that, the Bidzar and Mintom deposits respectively in the North and South Regions are the two best deposits to be considered for the local production of Portland cement. Their exploitation will more promote purely local cement industry in Cameroon.