Spatial Distribution of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Okamini Stream, Elioparanwo-Egbelu Axis, Obio/Akpor, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

This work investigated the status of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Okamini Stream in Obio/Akpor, Rivers State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected using standard methods. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined by extraction, purification and analysis using Agilent gas chromatography, model 6890N, coupled with a mass spectrometer (MS). The results of PAH determination showed that all PAHs were not detected in station 1, with a total value of 0.00. Station 2 was more contaminated with PAHs, with the identification of all ring categories in the station and a total value of 0.892 mg/L. The next highest total PAH value was observed at Station 3 where the total value observed was 0.878 mg/L. The mean value of the river was found to be 0.5900.42 mg/L. The observed trend in concentrations of PAH in the stream appears to be related to activity. The diagnostic ratio results showed that the PAHs in Okamini stream were from pyrogenic sources. The water quality of the two streams needs to be adequately monitored to control pollution from heavy metals and PAHs.