Assessment of metal contamination in soil and plants from abandoned secondary and primary goldmines in Osun State, Nigeria

• DOI: 10.5897/jssem11.116
• Publication Date: 2012-11-30
• Authors: Y. A. Ekwue; A.M. Gbadebo; T. A. Arowolo; J. K. Adesodun
• Keywords: Soil test

Heavy metal contamination of soil, water, and crops, their health impact on residents, is a persistent social issue, several studies have identified risks residents living near abandoned mines. In this study, the heavy concentrations in soil plants gold mines primary goldmine secondary goldmine, Ilesa-Osun State Nigeria latitude 7°, 27’N to 7°,35’N longitude 4°, 47’E 4°,53’E was investigated. A total 20 samples replicates two [both surface (0 to15 cm) subsurface (15 30 cm)] were collected from both sites eight plant also for study. Metal concentration determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma/ Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP/OES) technique. The trend was, Cr >Zn >Cu >Co >Pb >As >Cd. Soils had mean values Cu, Co higher than NCI standards which indicative general. Chromium 79.4 mg/kg observed soils indicating chromium toxicity, at 0 15 cm depths. While plants, Zn >Pb> >Cd Cd. Cu above normal metals found with considered be high level, (21 mg/kg). study potential phytoextraction certain metals.

Key words: Heavy metals, goldmines, contamination,