Chemical analysis of the Assale (Ethiopia) rock salt deposit

Abstract

This paper describes the chemical analysis for the major constituents and trace (contaminants) elements found in the Assale (Ethiopia) rock salt. The results showed that the rock salt is found to be the best natural common salt. This was proved by comparison with the chemical requirement and trace elements in common and table salt set by the Ethiopian Quality and Standards Authority. However, during excavation together with the rock salt some soil, mud and other contaminants are found that require further processing or separation.

KEY WORDS: Rock salt, Assale (Ethiopia), Major elements, Trace elements

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2006, 20(2), 319-324.