Mineralogical Study of Lithium -Caesium Tantalum (LCT) Pegmatite Rocks In Makarfi L.G.A, Kaduna State

This research focuses on the Mineralogical Study of Lithium-Caesium-Tantalum (LCT) Pegmatite Rocks in Makarfi Local Government Area (L.G.A), Kaduna State, Nigeria. The primary aim was to systematically characterize the mineralogical composition and assess the economic potential of LCT pegmatites in the region. Field surveys were conducted to identify pegmatite occurrences, and samples were collected for laboratory analysis using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF)techniques. The XRD results revealed the presence of key lithium-bearing minerals such as Spodumene, Lepidolite, and Petalite, along with quartz, albite, and muscovite. AAS confirmed significant lithium concentrations ranging from 120 to 340 ppm, alongside notable caesium and tantalum values, indicating the potential for multielement mining. XRF analysis showed high silica content, consistent with the quartz-rich nature of the pegmatites. Petrographic thin section analysis identified Granoblastic, porphyritic, and interlocking textures, suggesting a complex history of crystallization and minimal alteration, enhancing the economic viability of the deposit. The findings suggest that the Makarfi pegmatites are promising for lithium extraction, with potential by-products of caesium and tantalum. The study recommends further geochemical mapping, exploratory drilling, and pilot metallurgical testing to fully assess the deposit's commercial potential.