V2I10P36

Analytical Study of Soil Contamination Due to Unregulated Solid Waste Disposal and Leachate Generation in Selected Area in Imo State

Okoro M. U. ^1*, Alisa C.O.¹, Opara A. I.¹, Nkwuada A.U.¹, Uzoukwu C. S.¹, Obi J. N.¹, Monday O. A.¹, Onuoha O. I.¹, Osukalu E.I.¹

Abstract

The work centered on the physico- chemical features of soils components in a selected area in southeastern Nigeria. A particular location in Nekede town of Imo, was used as the case study. The study majored mainly on the soil quality status and potential environmental risks. Using a Dutch soil auger, soil sample were taken from different points, and this was done at the depth of 15cm, 30cm on an open waste. The physicochemical parameters of the soil were determined using standard laboratory methods, while EDXRF was used for heavy metal determination. It was also observed that soil component has   PH value indicating slightly acidic to moderately alkaline, Nitrate levels up to 101.60 ppm and nitrate–nitrogen up to 22.80 ppm exceed WHO safety limits (50 mg/L nitrate; 10 mg/L nitrate–nitrogen), Other results were observed and noted. Lead (Pb) was highest at the surface (211 mg/kg) and decreased slightly with depth, indicating partial retention in upper layers. Zinc (Zn) values suggested strong contamination from metallic and electronic was, while Iron (Fe), reached an exceptionally high at the surface, likely from corroded ferrous materials. The control site showed much lower values across all metals, confirming anthropogenic input as the primary contamination source. The soils under study are severely contaminated with Ni, Cu, Pb, and Zn, which show values far above pollution thresholds. The geo accumulation factor reveals Copper is at the top while Iron is at the lowest quantity. Also, the result confirmed that severe ecological risk posed by these contaminants, suggesting the possibility of strong anthropogenic influences. Concentrations of several metals exceed permissible limits, highlighting the urgent need for regular monitoring, pollution control measures, and remediation strategies to protect soil and groundwater quality.

Keywords:

Leachate, Physicochemicals Tatus, Enrichment Factor, Soils, Dumpsite