Abstract

The weathering of some granitic rocks in the West Region of Cameroon (Central Africa) was examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence Spectrometer (XRF) in conjunction with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Kaolinite and illite were the most predominant weathering products whereas gibbsite, goethite and maghemite were also found in small amounts; only residual quantities of quartz and potassium feldspar were observed. The geochemical study shows the mobility of major elements during the progressive kaolinization of granitic rocks. The main trend is the loss of elements, with high losses of CaO, Na₂O and MgO, slight losses of SiO₂ while Al₂O₃ and K₂O appear to increase with weathering intensity. Chemical index of alteration (CIA) shows a high value (68-95%). The scanning electron microscope analysis reveals the existence of several surface features that reflect the effect of mainly chemical actions on the quartz and K-feldspar grains. Quartz and K-feldspar crystals from kaolinized granitic rocks show low to very high chemical etching attributed to weathering under moderate to severe environmental conditions such as low pH, high temperature and humidity and extreme leaching typical of tropical climatic conditions. Etched pit densities on quartz surfaces increase with weathering, as a result of increasing silica concentrations in pore fluids.

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