Physical, Chemical, and Mineralogical Characterization of Soils From the Jandaíra Formation: a Case Study in The Municipality of Mossoró

Objective: The objective of this paper was to conduct the physical, chemical, and mineralogical characterization of soils developed over the Jandaíra Formation, located in the municipality of Mossoró (RN), Brazil. Theoretical Framework: The Potiguar Sedimentary Basin, in the Northeast region of Brazil, includes formations with significant potential for geotechnical and environmental studies. The Jandaíra Formation, composed of carbonate rocks, gives rise to residual soils whose characterization is still limited in certain areas, hindering proper assessments of their use and stability. Method: Four representative samples from different soil classes developed over the Jandaíra Formation were collected. The analyses included particle size distribution tests, Atterberg limits, X-ray diffraction (XRD) for mineralogical identification, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for chemical composition. Results and Discussion: The results revealed significant particle size variation among the samples. Expansive clay minerals such as smectite and non-expansive minerals like kaolinite were identified. Chemically, the soils showed a predominance of silicon and aluminum oxides, which directly influence their geotechnical behavior. Research Implications: The data obtained provide important technical support for civil engineering projects and environmental management in the region, particularly regarding the safe use of soils developed over the Jandaíra Formation, considering the presence of expansive minerals. Originality/Value: This research presents an original contribution to the characterization of soils from the Jandaíra Formation in Mossoró, filling gaps in technical and scientific knowledge and supporting future decisions on land use and occupation.