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Clean Sampling and Analysis of River and Estuarine Waters for Trace Metal Studies
Published on: July 1, 2016
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Source Evaluation and Trace Metal Contamination in Benthic Sediments from Equatorial Ecosystems Using Multivariate
Nsikak U Benson1, Francis E Asuquo2, Akan B Williams1
1Environmental Chemistry Unit, Department of Chemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria.
Plos One
|June 4, 2016
Summary
Trace metals like copper and chromium contaminate Niger Delta ecosystems, posing ecological risks. Multiple pollution sources contribute to this significant metal contamination in benthic sediments.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
- Ecotoxicology
Background:
- Estuarine, riverine, and freshwater ecosystems in the Niger Delta face contamination challenges.
- Understanding trace metal pollution is crucial for environmental management and ecological health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trace metal (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb) concentrations in benthic sediments.
- To assess contamination levels and identify pollution sources in Niger Delta ecosystems.
- To evaluate the ecological risk associated with metal contamination.
Main Methods:
- Multi-step fractionation scheme for trace metal analysis.
- Calculation of individual contamination factors (ICF) and global contamination factor (GCF).
- Application of multivariate statistical methods: Principal Component Analysis (PCA), cluster analysis, and correlation tests.
Main Results:
- Spatial distribution pattern of metal concentrations: Pb>Cu>Cr>Cd>Ni.
- High potential mobility and bioavailability indicated for copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni).
- Contamination trend (ICF) in benthic sediments: Cu>Cr>Ni>Cd>Pb.
- Multivariate analyses confirmed multiple pollution sources influencing trace metal contamination.
Conclusions:
- Trace metal contamination is a significant issue in Niger Delta benthic sediments.
- Copper and nickel pose notable ecological risks due to their mobility and bioavailability.
- Multiple anthropogenic and natural sources contribute to the observed metal pollution patterns.
