Determination of Heavy Metal (Cu, Cr, Fe, Cd and as) Contamination in Soils Surrounding Palm Oil Processing Sites in Delta State, Nigeria

Journal Article • 2026

Authors

Timothy O. Oni

Abstract / Description

The disposal of wastes generated from palm oil processing activities has raised concerns regarding the accumulation of heavy metals in surrounding soils. This study assessed the concentrations of selected heavy metals, namely iron (Fe), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and arsenic (As), in soils collected from palm oil processing locations within Delta State, Nigeria. Soil samples obtained from various processing sites and control locations were subjected to acid digestion and analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) with a UNICAM 929 instrument. The analytical results revealed the presence of iron and copper in all sampled locations, with concentrations significantly higher in soils collected around palm oil processing areas than in control samples. Iron recorded the highest concentration among the investigated metals, with values ranging from 30.545 ppm to 137.628 ppm, while copper concentrations ranged from 0.011 ppm to 0.668 ppm. The highest iron concentration was observed in the Ozana Farm area of Otibio. Cadmium, chromium, and arsenic were not detected in any of the analyzed samples, as their concentrations were below the instrument detection limits. The observed enrichment of iron and copper in soils surrounding palm oil processing sites may be attributed to the continuous discharge of palm oil residues and processing wastes onto the surrounding environment. The study therefore indicates that palm oil processing activities contribute to changes in soil metal composition and highlights the need for proper waste management practices to minimize environmental contamination.

Publication Details

Type
Journal Article

Journal / Source / Project
Academy of Business Studies Journal

Year
2026

Volume / Issue / Pages
VIII I