Abstract:
This study was based on the assessment of heavy metal content of drain water within the vicinity of cement factory and other associated activities. Heavy metal concentration analysis was done using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer as described in APHA 3111B and ASTM D3651 The present research work deals with the study of seven (7) heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb). The result showed ranges of Cr (0.25±0.01-0.29±0.01, Fe (<0.01-0.02±0.00), Mn (0.34±0.01-0.39±0.02), Cu (0.41±0.05-0.52±0.03), Zn (0.44±0.04-0.54±0.04), Cd (0.09±0.03-0.18±0.04), Pb (0.01±0.00-0.02±0.00). There was low concentration of Fe but Cu is gradually building up as its concentration is very close to the WHO limits even though below that of FEPA/ FMENV and SON. A one way ANOVA was used to compare the relationship of the three months (April, May and June) and the three stations (X, Y, Z). Temporal and spatial variation showed result not significant (p<0.05) as F-ratio were 0.1224 and 0.0121 respectively. Similarly, t-test was used to compare the mean values from the control values (p≤0.05). The result showed that for April and June there were statistical significance unlike in May compared to the control station results. The study also revealed that Cr, Mn, Zn, Cd exceeded the regulatory standards but Pb presence is a potential threat. The potential variation of heavy metals in the study was of the trend, Fe<Pb<Cd<Cr<Mn<Cu<Zn. The concentrations of all the heavy metals were larger than their respective control values showing the impact of external factors which must be checked. There should be deliberate attempt to regulate the activities of subsidiary operations within the premises of the cement factory and the associated industries around the area.
