Analyzing the Presence and Dispersion of Hydrocarbons at Mechanic Workshop Dumpsites, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study aimed to analyze the presence and dispersion of hydrocarbons in dumpsites at mechanic workshops in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from within 15-25 cm soil depth from three mechanic workshops in Port Harcourt, situated at Elekahia, Rumeme and Eleme Local Governments. The total petroleum (TPH) and Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) concentrations in the soil samples were determined using standard methods. Total TPH concentration in mechanic workshop dumpsites ranged from 9508.18 ppm to 10342.41 ppm, while in the control the concentration was 424.41 ppm. Total PAH concentration in mechanic workshop dumpsites ranged from 312.45 ppm to 1654.08 ppm, while in the control the concentration was 157.89 ppm. All the dumpsites had high levels of PAHs, which was several folds more than in the control. Results revealed that soil at mechanic workshop dumpsites was highly contaminated with hydrocarbons, exceeding the allowable limit 50 mg/kg by the Department oof Petroleum Resources (DPR). Remediation of the soil is recommended, as well as proper management of waste, where relocation of the dumpsite is not possible.