Characterisation of Hydrocarbon Pollutants in Soils from Selected Areas in Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria

The concentration, distribution and sources of petroleum hydrocarbons in soils from selected areas in Abraka, Delta State, were evaluated. Soil samples were collected from areas suspected to be contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons, which were also in proximity to human population. These areas included busy junctions, generator maintenance workshops, suya joint, drainage and fuel stations. Samples were extracted using nhexane/dichloromethane mixture and quantified using gas chromatograph-flame ionization detector. The concentrations of nalkanes ranged from generator maintenance workshops > drainage > fuel station > busy junction, while the occurrence pattern with respect to ring size was of the order: 3-rings > 4-rings > 2- Rings > 5-rings > 6-rings. The lower molecular weight (2-3 rings) and non-carcinogenic PAHs were predominant in the studied soils. The isomeric ratios and principal component analysis indicated that PAHs in these soils originated from high temperature combustion of biomass and fossil fuels, as well as traffic emissions.