Mineralogical and Structural Characterization of Sedimentary Rocks from Leang Panning Karst Region, Maros, Indonesia

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the elemental composition and phases in rock minerals collected from Leang Panning Park, Mallawa, Maros Regency, South Sulawesi. The methods employed included X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Optical Microscopy. The XRF results indicated the presence of elements such as Ca, Si, Al, Mg, Zr, and Fe. XRD analysis revealed the presence of three main crystalline phases: Calcium Silicate (80.2%), Brownmillerite (11.9%), and Iron Oxide (7.9%). Optical microscopy and ImageJ analysis provided visual confirmation of mineral grains. The characterized sample was identified as sedimentary limestone, notable for its physical strength yet susceptibility to erosion. This study contributes to the mineralogical mapping of the region and supports the potential for further geoscientific exploration.