Impact of Carbonised Briquette on the Fractionation of Trace Metals in Dumpsite Soils

Abstract

Increase in domestic and industrial waste increases the concentration of trace metals in dumpsites soil. The level of trace metal concentration of dumpsite soil needs to be analysed for proper metal contamination management. Soil metal contamination can be managed using organic material such as carbonised sawdust. In this study, soil samples were collected from selected dumpsites in Benin City, using standard method. Carbonised briquette was prepared from softwood sawdust obtained Carbonised briquette was prepared from softwood sawdust obtained from a sawmill in Sapele Town. The effects of carbonised briquette on metal fractionation were investigated using standard method. Fraction studies revealed that carbonised briquette the amendment results in the decrease in the levels of Zn, Cu, Mn and Cr in the different fractions. The decrease follows the order: exchangeable < carbonate < Fe-Mn oxide < organic < residual. Suggesting reduction in mobility and bioavailability of the metals after carbonised briquette amendment. Therefore, this study revealed that carbonised briquette can be used to immobilise metals and also as a medium to manage trace metals soil contamination.