Geochemical Investigation of Heavy Metals Characterization of Groundwater in Hydrocarbon impacted site in Part of Niger Delta, Nigeria
- September 1, 2020
- Posted by: RSIS Team
- Categories: Chemistry, IJRIAS
International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science (IJRIAS) | Volume V, Issue VI, June 2020 | ISSN 2454-6194
Ayibawari O, Egai, Cyril Ovuru
Department of Geology, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Abstract: – Heavy metal pollution is ubiquitous in Groundwater especially in hydrocarbon impacted site in the Niger Delta, due to anthropogenic and possible terrigenous sources. A total of ten boreholes were drilled in the study area to assess the degree of contamination; Six boreholes were drilled in the hydrocarbon impacted site, while four boreholes were drilled in the un-impacted site to serve as control. The study is to evaluate and characterize the heavy metals status in the area (Zn, Pb, V, Ni, Cr, Cd, As, Hg, Co, Mn, and Cu) and their trends in order to interpret the environmental implications to Community inhabitants. Groundwater samples were collected and analysed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results indicated higher concentration of iron in the hydrocarbon impacted site than the un-impacted site. Mn, Pb and Zn are relatively higher in concentration in the hydrocarbon impacted site than the un-impacted site. Cr, Cu and Ni also presented higher concentration in the hydrocarbon impacted site than the un-impacted site. V, As and Hg also presented higher concentrations in the hydrocarbon impacted site than the un-impacted site. Cd and Co also indicated higher concentration in the hydrocarbon impacted site than the un-impacted site. When the hydrocarbon impacted site result was compared with WHO (2006) standard, the analysed values were above WHO (2006) standard, which signifies that the study area has been polluted with heavy metals. Hence, these metals will continue to deteriorate the aquifer if not checked. The effects will be on the inhabitants; therefore proactive measures should be taken to remediate the environment.
Keywords: Geochemical Investigation, Hydrocarbon, Groundwater, Heavy Metals
