Geological study of limestones in the Cajamarca Formation for the production of calcium oxide (lime) in the Chamis Locality, Cajamarca, Peru

Abstract

The non-metallic mining industry plays a crucial role in the economic and industrial development of Peru. In the Cajamarca region, there is significant demand for calcium oxide, both in the agricultural and mining sectors. In the locality of Chamis, located northeast of the city of Cajamarca, extensive outcrops of limestones from the Upper Cretaceous Cajamarca Formation are observed. Chemical results and macroscopic observations indicate highly favorable conditions for the exploitation of calcium oxide in this area. The proximity of these outcrops to the main road presents a significant logistical advantage, as it would contribute to reducing the costs associated with the transportation of extracted material, its transfer to calcination furnaces, and subsequent product marketing. This strategic factor not only enhances operational efficiency but also boosts the project's competitiveness, thereby consolidating the economic viability of limestone exploitation in the Cajamarca Formation in the Chamis locality.