Abstract The valorization of the natural resources located in Benin Republic, in particular, marble obtained from Assiyo (Dassa-Zoumè) was the purpose of this study. It was characterized to elucidate its properties for industrial applications. The results of the analysis by X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence and thermal analysis showed that Assiyo marble is dolomitic limestone. This marble sample is basic with pH ≈ 8.6. The particle size analysis of the powder particles of these marbles showed two major size fractions: 35 % of the particles have a size between 250 µm and 500 µm and 23 % of the particles have a size between 125 µm and 250 µm. These characteristics make this marble very good additives that can be used in the production of fertilizer, glass, cement, mortar, concrete and functional construction material. Assiyo marble can be used in metallurgy and as dolomite-based sorbent to remove pollutants from water.
Keywords marble; characterization; calcite; dolomite.