Cement Raw Materials in Indiana

Abstract

Limestone that is chemically suitable and easily accessible for cement manufacture can be found at many places in Indiana in the Mississippian limestones and to a more limited extent in the Devonian limestones. Clay, shale, and gypsum, also used in manufacturing cement, are readily available close to limestone reserves. Five areas in Indiana are most favorable for establishing cement plants: Bloomington-Spencer-Gosport, Paoli-Mitchell-Bedford, Greencastle, central Clark County, and southern Harrison County; a sixth area, east of Logansport, also may have limestone suitable for cement manufacture. Five of these areas are close to railroad lines and fuel supplies; the southern Harrison County area is favorably situated for barge transportation on the Ohio River. Reserves of mineral raw materials in 5 of the areas probably are sufficient to supply a cement plant for 50 years. Surface study does not permit an accurate appraisal of the Logansport area, but it probably also has sufficient reserves.