Algerian Sahara Sand Dunes Characterization

For a possible use of Saharan sands, representative samples were collected and analysed by several physicochemical methods. The results show that quartz (98 %) is the most represented mineral, while the oxides of aluminium, potassium, iron, chromium and manganese probably are included in a clay phase. The granular analysis enabled the determination of uniformity coefficient (CU) and equivalent diameter. On the other hand, a comparison of the Infrared spectrum of the sand (washed and unwashed) was carried out as well as Scanning Electron Microscopy observations and X-Ray analysis.