DEPOSITIONOAL ENVIRONMENTS OF CLAY IN IBA, EMUOHA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, RIVERS STATE.

The research investigates the geological characteristics, depositional environment, and mineralogical composition of clay deposits in Iba Community, Emohua Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. The study highlights the significance of understanding these factors for optimizing clay exploitation and ensuring environmental sustainability. It identifies that the clay deposits are primarily found in a fluvial to shallow marine environment and are associated with the Tertiary-age Benin Formation. The study aims to characterize the types of clay present, analyze their mineralogical and geochemical composition, and evaluate their economic potential for various industrial applications. Key objectives include assessing the depositional processes that formed these clays and understanding their implications for paleoclimate reconstructions. The research employs field observations and laboratory analyses to gather data over a defined geographical area. This work addresses a gap in existing literature regarding the sedimentary processes and paleoenvironmental significance of clay deposits in the Niger Delta region, which has been largely overlooked in favor of hydrocarbon exploration. Overall, the findings are expected to contribute to geological knowledge, inform responsible mining practices, and support local economic development through resource management and industrial applications.