Simplified method for solubilization of agricultural limestone samples for determining calcium and magnesium

Abstract

Two methods for solubilization of agricultural limestone samples for determination of calcium and magnesium were studied. One method, supported on vigorous acid digestion, is indicated for determination of the total of those elements; and another one, simple and rapid, is used in routine laboratories; both were applied to different granulometric fractions of the samples. The results, statisticaly analysed, did not show significative differences between both methods as well as between calcium and magnesium oxide percentages contained in the different granulometric fractions that compose the commercial limestones. The simplified solubilization method is indicated to characterize soluble calcium and magnesium oxides in agricultural limestones.