Experimental Analyses of the Physiochemical Parameters for Concentration Distribution in a Polluted Soil Medium

Abstract

This experimental research was undertaken to show the concentration distribution of different physiochemical parameters in a soil polluted by crude oil. Various physiochemical parameters were investigated in the laboratory two months after extensive crude oil spillage using standard procedures. Five (5) soil samples were collected at different depths (0-0.1 m, 0.1-0.25 m, 0.25-0.4 m, 0.4-0.55 m and 0.55-1.0 m). The results of analyses revealed that the contamination of soil with crude oil caused PAHs, BTEX, TPH, nitrogen, and magnesium concentrations to decrease with increasing depth of the soil medium while soil PH, calcium and exchangeable acidity, hydrogen and aluminium concentrations to increase with increasing depth of the soil medium. Also, PH becomes more alkaline as crude oil contamination decreases. Predictive mathematical correlations were derived for each tested parameters from Microsoft excel charts to determine the extent of soil contamination. Therefore, the depth beyond which the soil is free from contamination can be determined from the equations correlated. This research shows different parameters that affects the growth of plants. Khana local government area (Ogoni) in Niger Delta, Nigeria is affected with the oil spillage, therefore, it implies low soil fertility, which in turns implies low agricultural productivity and reduced source of livelihood in the area. Hence, findings reveal the need for holistic and sustainable monitoring, control and remediation of the oil spilled environment.