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Open Access
1D resistivity inversion technique in the mapping of igneous intrusives; A step to sustainable quarry development
(Elsevier, 2017-11-13) . Nwachukwu, Micheal A.; Nwosu, Leonard I.; Uzoije, Patric A.; Nwoko, Christian A.
The use of trial pits as a first step in quarry site development causes land degradation and results in more failure than success for potential quarry investors in some parts of the world. In this paper, resistivity, depth and distance values derived from 26 Vertical Electric Soundings (VES) and 2 profiling inversion sections were successfully used to evaluate a quarry site prior to development. The target rock Diabase (Dolerite) was observed and it had a resistivity range of 3.0 104 e7. 8 106 U-m, and was clearly distinguishable from associated rocks with its bright red color code on the AGI 1D inversion software. This target rock was overlain by quartzite, indurate shale and mudstone as overburden materials. The quartzite, with its off-red colour, has a resistivity range of 2.0 103 e2.9 105 U-m, while the indurate shale, with a yellowish-brown colour, showed resistivity values ranging from 6.1 102 e 2.8 105 U-m. Topsoil was clayey, with a resistivity range from 8 e 8.6 102u U-m and depths of 0.3e1.8 m, often weathered and replaced by associated rocks outcrops. The diabase rock, in the three prospective pits mapped, showed thicknesses of between 40 and 76 m across the site. The prospective pits were identified to accommodate an estimated 2,569,450 tonnes of diabase with an average quarry pit depth of 50 m. This figure was justified by physical observations made at a nearby quarry pit and from test holes. Communities were able to prepare a geophysical appraisal of the intrusive body in their domain for economic planning and sustainability of the natural resource.
Open Access
A comparative analysis of coconut, palm frond and palm stem fibres as erosion control materials on embankments
(U. P., 2009) Egwuonwu, C. C.; Uzorije, A. P.
The research focused on the use of fibres from coconut pud, palm stem and palm frond in erosion control on embankments. It compared single layer performance of the three fibres on three different slopes and a double layer performance of the coconut fibre. Two coconut fibre nets and a single net each for the palm stem and palm frond were used with a cell dimension of 2cm x 2cm and a boundary dimension of 360cm x 122cm. The fibres were in turn placed over a model of soil embankment in a soil bin. Rain was simulated for 30 minutes over the protected soil and the amount of soil loss deter mined. This soil loss was compared to the loss from the unprotected slope. The single and double layered coconut fibre were found to be more effective in reducing soil loss compared with the control experiment and fibres from palm frond and palm stem. For instance, for a slope of 3%, the soil loss from the single and double layered coconut fibres were 279.4g and 204.3, respectively, compared to 1051.6g, 322.80g and 310.60g for the unprotected soil, the palm stem fibre and palm frond fibre, respectively.
Open Access
Activated orange meso-carp carbon (AOMC); an acceptable remediation techniques for crude oil pollution effect
(Maxwell Scientific Organization, 2012-01-01) Atulegwu, Patrick Uzoije; Uzoigwe, Luke O.; Kamalu , C. I. O.
Orange mesocarp with its potentials application to remove spilled crude oil was used to prepare an activated adsorbent. Therefore, adsorption of crude oil onto the activated orange meso-carp (AOMC) was investigated. Batch experiment was adopted for the equilibrium studies and the studies were conducted for various operational parameters such as varying crude oil concentration and temperature values. The crude oil samples of A, B, C, D and E, with concentrations 6045, 4393, 8508, 11583, and 5220, respectively and temperature values varied between 10-50ºC were used for the experiment. The adsorption equilibrium was established at 40 min of adsorption time. Partition coefficients, kd (L/kg) for various samples reacted inversely with temperature and were in the ranges of 0.37-0.69, 0.65-1.11, 1.28-2.04, 1.17-1.39 and 1.23-4.53 for samples A, B, C, D and E, respectively. percentage of crude oil samples on the AOMC decreased with low crude oil hydrocarbons and the trend was shown as follows D>C >A>E>B. Percentage ranges for samples A, B, C,D and E were given to be 86.8-88%, 60.5-72.4, 52.5-55.2, 47.9-55.4 and 45.3-49.2%, respectively. Sorption of the crude oil samples to AOMC was found to be spontaneous, exothermic, and physio-sorption controlled with G values being in the ranges of -71.49 to -21.29, -18.25 to -5.43, -30.24 to -21.11, -28.55 to -11.33 and -50.74 to -50.12 KJ/mol for samples A ,B , C , D and E, respectively. Enthalpy(H) and Entropy changes(S) were also found to be -10.28, -12.24, -8.92, -6.9, -50.28 J/mol/K and -2.92, -0.32, -0.50, -0.44, -0.01 for samples A, B, C, D and E, respectively. Activated orange meso-carp provides a veritable environmentally remediation technique for crude oil spillage.
Open Access
Addressing corruption practices in agricultural sector to make agriculture demand-driven in Nigeria
(Spring Journals, 2016-11) Godson-Ibeji, C. C.; . Ogueri, E. I.; Chikaire, J. U.
Agriculture is one aspect of Nigeria’s economy that should not be neglected or even marginalised. Not only that agriculture is the major source of food for people and livestock, it also provides earnings to farmers and raw materials for industries as well as providing over sixty-five percent employment to the teeming population of Nigerians. In spite of all these advantages over other professions such as law, medicine, engineering and others, yet, people in Nigeria still express phobia for agriculture as an enterprise. Corruption in agricultural sector is an impediment which, when fought and eliminated will make agriculture demand-driven in Nigeria. This paper therefore takes a cursory look at some aspects of corrupt practices in agricultural sector and their attendants’ effects on agricultural productions. It concludes among other suggestions that to fight and eliminate corruption in agricultural sector and achieve the implementations of the Nigerian agricultural transformation agenda (ATA) as well as make agriculture demand-driven in Nigeria, those actors who perpetuate the nefarious acts of corruption in the sector should be reprimanded by the law and made to face the penalties.
Open Access
Adsorption and corrosion-inhibiting effect of dacryodis edulis extract on low-carbon-steel corrosion in acidic media
(Elsevier Inc, 2010-09-01) Oguzie, E. E.; Enenebeaku, C. K.; Akalezi, C. O.; Okoro, S. C.; Ayuk, A. A.; Ejike, E. N.
The inhibition of low-carbon-steel corrosion in 1 M HCl and 0.5 M H2SO4 by extracts of Dacryodis edulis (DE) was investigated using gravimetric and electrochemical techniques. DE extract was found to inhibit the uniform and localized corrosion of carbon steel in the acidic media, affecting both the cathodic and anodic partial reactions. The corrosion process was inhibited by adsorption of the extracted organic mat ter onto the steel surface in a concentration-dependent manner and involved both protonated and molec ular species. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to illustrate the process of adsorption of some specific components of the extract
Open Access
Adsorption kinetics and Mechanisms of cypermethrin and dichlorovos on heterogeneous activated carbon porous media
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-11-18) Atulegwu, Patrick Uzoije; Kamalu, Clinfford O.; Uzuakpundu, Basil
Adsorption kinetics and mechanism of Cypermethrin (CY) and Dichlorovos (DI) on activated car bons of oil bean seed shell (OBSS), unripe plantain peel (UPP) and castor bean seed shell (CBSS) systems have been studied. The equilibrium adsorption isotherms were modelled by Freunlich, Langmuir and Langmuir-Freunlich (LF) models. Adsorption isotherms of various systems were best described by Langmuir-Freunlich (LF). Mixed 1,2 order equation (MOE), integrated kinetic Langmuir (IKL), pseudo second order equation (PSOE), fractal-like mixed 1,2 order equation (F-MOE), and Boyd and Webbers models were compared and adopted in the analysis of the kinetic data. The models represented different uptake reduction rate of CY and DI by various adsorption systems. F-MOE, IKL and MOE models were in agreement with CY/OBSS, CY/UPP and CY/CBSS sys tem data respectively, hence the conforming models, whereas IKL, MOE and PSOE were the con forming models for DI/OBSS, DI/UPP and DI/CBSS adsorption data systems, respectively. The two diffusion models (Boyd and Webbers) applied confirmed film diffusion pattern as prevailing transportation pathway for CY and DI onto the adsorbents.
Open Access
Adsorption of cupper (II) ion on heterogeneous surfaces of selected low-cost precursors; an application of isotherm, thermodynamic and kinetic models
(U. P., 2015-01) Uzoije , Atulegwu .Patrick; Okolie, Justus I.; Njoku, P. C.; Enwereuzo., Uzo
Cupper ions occur naturally in the environment and also prevalent in the waste from metal smelting industries through which it gets to the environment. Excessive intake of cupper results to adverse health effects on plant, animals and humans. The present study therefore studied the Adsorption of Cupper (II) ion on three activated bio-adsorbents; Unripe plantain peel, pineapple peel and commercial activated carbon. The activated carbons were characterized for surface morphology and functional groups for removal of Cupper (II) ion from aqueous solution. Batch process was adopted to study the time, temperature effect and isotherm equilibrium of Cupper (II) ion on. Adsorption of Cupper (II) ion on the three adsorbents got to equilibrium at between 80-100 minutes. Adsorption capacity of the three adsorbent was in this order at all temperature values; Unripe plantain peel greater than pineapple peel and greater than commercial activated carbon. Adsorption of Cupper ion increased with temperature, adsorption got to its plateau at 45oC and began to decrease. Langumuir-freunlich and Dubini-Radushkevichmodels were applied to analyze the Isotherm data. Langumuir-freunlich described the data better than Dubini-Radushkevich. Also, Pseudo-first order, pseudo-second-order, and intra-particle diffusion models were applied to test the kinetic data, pseudo-second-order fitted the data better than pseudo-first order. Pore-pore particle diffusion was observed to be the controlling step. Endothermic and non- spontaneous processes characterized Cupper ion adsorption on the three adsorbents .
Open Access
Agricultural land use in peri-urban communities in Nigeria: A review
(Tapas Institute of Scientific Research and development, 2007-04) Ajaero, J. O.; Matthews-Njoku, E. C.; Ehirim, N. C.
This paper reviewed the emerging problems of agricultural land use in Nigeria outlying communities. The outlying communities are known to be major sources of agricultural products to nearby urban areas. However, agricultural activities are under the threat of being abandoned due to the transfer of arable land other uses apart from agriculture. This was found to be due to the increased economic value (price) of land, which makes land a source of immediate income to escape chronic poverty. The emerging scenario is the replacement of traditional communal landholding by individual arrangement in the outlying agrarian rural communities to facilitate permanent alienation so that individuals can dispose of their farm lands to other uses. This would have the effects of forcing a significant population engaged in agriculture to the unemployment market, the emergence of landless farmers and compound problem of resource accessibility by disadvantaged groups like women farmers. It has also led to the increase in land rates for agricultural purposes and unabated decrease in farm size among farmers. The paper suggests that farming layouts should be mapped out and given equal attention as accorded to industrial and residential areas by urban development authorities. It concludes that extension service activities should be directed toward the dissemination of innovations like vegetable and small ruminant production, which does not require large expanse of land and compatible with land situations in these areas.
Open Access
Agricultural Production and Climate Change: Need for Proper Extension Policy Formulation in Nigeria
(U. P., 2012-08) Anaeto, F. C.; Asiabaka, C. C.; Onweagba, A. E.; Ohajianya, D. O.; Nnadi, F. N.; Ifeanyi-Obi, C. C.; Ajaero, J. O.; Ukpongson, M. U.; Ugwoke, F. O.
Changes in climate are expected to have significant impacts on farm yields and product quality as a result of changes in temperature, moisture, air and soil. This paper reviews the effects of climate change on agricultural production and the need for extension policy formulation. The paper further dwelt on the need for sound agricultural policy but observed that much cannot be achieved in that direction without efficient and effective extension system. It recommends a well articulated and comprehensive agricultural extension policy which will address properly the issue of climate change and its mitigations/adaptation.
Open Access
Agricultural production and climate change: Need for proper extension policy formulation in Nigeria
(U. P., 2012) Anaeto, F. C.; Asiabaka, C. C.; Onweagha, A. E.; Ohajianya, D. O.; Nnadi, J. O.; Ajaero, J. O.; Ukpongson, M. U.; Ugwoke, F. O.
Changes in climate are expected to have significant impacts on farm yields and product quality as a result of changes in temperature, moisture, air and soil. This paper reviews the effects of climate change on agricultural production and the need for extension policy formulation. The paper further dwelt on the need for sound agricultural policy but observed that much cannot be achieved in that direction without efficient and effective extension system. It recommends a well articulated and comprehensive agricultural extension policy which will address properly the issue of climate change and its mitigations/adaptation.
Open Access
An application of probit analysis to factors affecting small fertilizer in Ohaji/Egbema area of Imo State, Nigeria
(U. P., 2017-03-31) Anaeto, F. C.; Ohajianya, D. O.; Mathew-Njoku, E. C.; Ani, A. O.; Korie, O. C.; Osuagwa, C. O.; Uzor, U. C.; Adolph-Nnebene, E.
This study analyzed factors affecting smallholder farmers’ decisions to use fertilizer in Ohaji/Egbema area of Imo State, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained between April and June 2015 with structured questionnaire from 202 randomly selected smallholder farmers. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and probit model. Factors affecting smallholder farmers’ decisions to use fertilizers were farm size, education level, extension contact, net farm income, farming experience, cost of fertilizer, and perceived soil fertility status. Mc-Fadden’s Pseudo-R2 value of 0.6879 indicates that the independent variables included in the probit model explain 69% significant proportion of the variations in smallholder farmers’ decisions to use fertilizer. The pobit model predicted 82% of the factors affecting fertilizer use by smallholder farmers. The role of extension service in improved technology use cannot be over emphasized. The distribution of fertilizers to farmers through the GSM services should be restored since it proved an effective mechanism to reach smallholder farmers in input supply and distribution
Open Access
Analysis of heavy metals concentration in prawn (Macrobrachium Sp) harveted from Gberikoko River, in Sapele Delta State, Nigeria
(U. P., 2015-08) Obasi, kalu O.; Enemchukwu, S.; Okereke, J. N.; Ezeji, E. U.; Oparaigbo, M. I.
The concentrations of selected heavy metals: cadmium, arsenic, lead and mercury in prawn (Macrobrachium sp) were analyzed. The morphometric records of the prawn samples were taken. The specimens were subsequently weighed and individually pulverised to a uniform particle size. Ten(10)grams of each pulverised sample were put in a 200ml digestion conical flask, 30ml of aqua regia, which constitutes of hydrochloric acid, nitric acid and hydroflouric acid in the ratio 1:3:1 was added and placed uprightly for 10-15 minutes. The mixture was heated in a water bath until the whole sample dissolved and a yellow tint of the solution appeared. The solution was filtered using a filter paper into centrifuge tubes and made up to 50ml mark with deionized water. It was transferred into sample vials for analysis. The heavy metal analysis was done according to the standard methods for heavy metal determination using the FS 240 Varian Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Lead had the highest concentration in sample F and the lowest in sample H, with concentrations of 1.75ppm and 1.54ppm respectively. Also, the prawn samples exhibited the highest record of Mercury and lowest mean value of Arsenic with values of 6.9±3.95and0.00±0.00 respectively. For Mercury, the highest concentrations occurred in sample G and lowest in F, with concentrations of 12.6ppm and 4.1ppm respectively. Arsenic showed its highest concentration in sample F and lowest in sample H with concentrations of 0.65ppm and 0.64ppm, respectively, whereas Cadmium wasn’t detected in any of the samples. From the analysis of data, since F > Fcrit and p < 0.05, there is a significant difference in the mean concentrations of the prawn samples from Gberikoko river in Sapele, Delta State Nigeria.
Open Access
Analysis of the Actual and Assigned Roles Performed by Extension Personnel of Imo State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP)
(U. P., 2016) Anaeto, F. C.; Ajaero, J. O.; Anyoha, N. P.; Chukwu-Okonya, C.; Ani, A. O. .; Nnadi, F. N.; Onwukwe, S. C.; Ugwoke, F. O.; Asiabaka, C. C
This study comparatively analyzed the actual and assigned roles of extension personnel in Imo State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP). Data were collected with structured questionnaire and interview schedule from 100 farmers and 120 extension personnel randomly selected from the three agricultural zones in the state. Data were analyzed and interpreted using appropriate statistical tools such as frequency distribution table, percentages, mean score and chi-square was used to test if there is any significant difference between the actual and assigned roles of the respondents. The results among others showed that the assigned roles performed by the extension workers differ greatly from their actual role in the field. Most of the assigned roles performed by the extension personnel include; visitations to farmers, conducting trails and attending trainings (FNT & BM), while most of the actual role performed include; Tax collection, revenue generation, selling of materials, school runs, office work, farm hands and helping farmers have access to loan. Factors which influence these roles include; motivation, level of education of the staff, income level and the policy of the agency which had great influence on the assigned roles of the extension workers while greed, low income level and low motivation of the staff had great influence on their actual roles. The recommendations among others include the following: Policy should be developed by which the extension workers gain adequate incentive on the job, the agents should be given necessary transportation facilities and more in-service training for extension workers should be provided..
Open Access
Analysis of thermodynamics, kinetics and equilibrium Isotherm on Fe3+/Fe2+ adsorption onto palm kernel shell activated carbon (PKSAC): A low-cost adsorbent
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2014-01-15) Uzoije, Atulegwu Patrick; Uche, Cosmas Chinedu; Ashiegbu, Darlington
Adsorption of Fe3+/Fe2+ from a polluted shallow well water onto a palm kernel shell activated carbon (PKSAC) has been studied. Batch experiment was adopted to study the Removal efficiency of Fe3+/Fe2+ on varying contact time, temperature, adsorbent loading and concentrations. Equilibrium isotherm and kinetic were also studied. Removal efficiency progressed with contact time till the peak adsorption time of 100 minutes when the efficiency remained at equilibrium. Also, removal efficiency got to equilibrium at the peak values of 80ºC, 4.8g and 12.5mg/l for temperature, adsorbent loading and concentration variations respectively. The adsorption isotherm models fitted the isotherm data got at 25ºC, 40ºC and 80ºC in this order; Langmuir > Temkin>Freunlich. The dimensionless separation factor of 0.012, 0.017 and 0.015 for 25ºC, 40ºC and 80ºC respectively confirmed favorable adsorption of Fe3+/Fe2+ on the PKSAC adsorbent. Langmuir adsorption capacity increased from 203.9mg Fe3+/Fe2+/g to 389.3 mg Fe3+/Fe2+/g when the temperature increased from 25ºC to 40ºC but decreased to 308.1 mg Fe3+/Fe2+/g at temperature of 80ºC. The kinetic models described the kinetic study data got at 25ºC, 40ºC and 80ºC as follows; power-function>second-order>Elovick>intra-diffusion>first-order kinetics. Mass transfer through liquid film diffusion controlled the adsorption of Fe3+/Fe2+ onto PKSAC. Negative values of the Thermodynamic parameters (Δ􀀂􀀃 , Δ􀀅􀀃 and Δ􀀆􀀃) got at various temperature values showed favorability of adsorption of Fe3+/Fe2+ onto PKSAC.nIt is therefore concluded that PKSAC removed Fe3+/Fe2+ from aqueous solution.
Open Access
Application of geographic information system (GIS) in accuracy assessment of existing land use map a case study of Enugu Area, South-Eastern Nigeria
(Scientific & Academic Publishing, 2012) Onunkwo, A. A.; Nwankwo, G. I.; Uzoije, A. P.; Okereke, C. N.
It is suspected that continuous building collapses within Enugu area is due to faulty landuse map. This work aims at employing geographic information system principles to assess the validity of the existing landuse map of Enugu area. Three landuse options were considered (Industrial, residential and waste). The study was undertaken using Arc view 3.2a academic, Excel Statistical Software and autocard software of GIS. A total of 12 landuse determinants were selected as thematic data layers and basic factors influencing the choice of industrial, residential and waste disposal landuses. Soil characteristics and geology were integrated into the thematic maps to facilitate the weighting of the basic determinants. The thematic layers were weighted on a scale of 0% - 100% and 0-2 inclusive, using the criteria obtained from field work and laboratory investigation. The thematic layers for each landuse were subjected to overlay using arc view software overlay model builder. The operation yielded three (3) different landuse maps (Industrial, residential and wasted disposal,) which were further superimposed to produce a composite landuse map useful for regional and urban planning. Correlation with existing landuse map, exposed a lot of limitations of the existing landuse map. All the residential and industrial areas of the existing landuse map fall within the low capacity areas of the present study. Areas selected as open space by the existing landuse map correspond to the areas of industrial and residential land uses of the present study. Areas limited for use by the present study due to hazards of flooding, landslide, fault and gully erosion were not considered by the existing landuse map, rather they were mapped out for industrial, residential and partly as open space. The existing landuse map has no provision for waste disposal. The present study shows that areas to the West, Southwest and Southeast are highly suitable for industrial and residential landuses. The limitations of the existing landuse map exposed by the present study must have accounted for the cases of building collapses in the area.
Open Access
Application of geographic information system (GIS) in composite land capability index mapping of a developing country (A case study of Enugu area, South -Eastern, Nigeria,
(U. P., 2011) Onunkwo, A. A.; Ibeneme, S. I.; Onyekuru, S. O.; Uzoije, A. P.
Enugu, the area under study is experiencing a high rate of population growth. Problems of housing, on employment, waste disposals and the general lowering of standard of living are always associated with over population. It has therefore become necessary to map out areas of residential, industrial and waste disposal land use for future utilization. Land capability index mapping using geographic information system(GIS) is one of the appropriate tools for solving these impending problems. Land capability index mapping of Enugu environs in composite form has been undertaken using Arc view 3.2 academic, excel statistical software and GIS Authcard software. A total of 12 land use determinants have been selected as the thematic data layers and the basic factors influencing the choice of waste, residential and industrial land use. These themes which are in map form are slope, water table, surface and subsurface water conditions, elevation, geology, soil, drainage and geo-structural stability(fault, erosion, landslide and flooding). These maps have been scanned, geo-referenced , digitized and polygonized using authcard drawing capacities to convert them to vector formats and later exported to arc view software environment for analysis. The thematic layers were weighted using the criteria obtained from fieldwork, laboratory and literature surveys. The thematic layers were further subjected to overlays using the arcview software overlay model builder. The operation yields layers showing areas of preferred waste disposal, residential and industrial landuse options in a map form. Three different maps of land use options(waste, industrial and residence) were produced. Areas of varying suitability were isolated, 3 each for waste, residence and industry, indicating suitable, low suitability and unsuitable areas respectively. The three land use maps were superimposed to obtain a single one appropriate for purposes of urban environmental planning.
Open Access
Application of geographic information system (GIS) in industrial land capability index mapping of a developing country . a case study of Enugu area , South- Eastern Nigeria
(2011-08-05) Onunkwo, A. A.; Uzoije, A. P.; Onyekuru, S. O.
It was projected that the population of Enugu area will grow at approximately 300% by the year 2020. The information is further strengthened by the projected 3,237,298 population figure of the area. This implies that there is the expectation of overpopulation of the area in future. Unemployment and lowering of people’s standard of living are always associated with over population. It therefore, becomes necessary to map out areas on a sustainable basis and most suitable for the sighting of industries to employ the teeming population. Land capability index mapping using Geographic Information System (GIS) principles was used for this study. The study was undertaken using Arc View 3.2a academic, Excel statistical soft-ware and auto card software of GIS. A total of 12 land use determinants were selected as thematic data layers and basic factors influencing the choice of industrial land use. Soil characteristics and geology were integrated into the thematic maps to facilitate the weighting of the basic determinants. The thematic layers were weighted on a scale of 0%-100% and 0-2 inclusive, using the criteria obtained from field work and laboratory investigation. The thematic layers were subjected to overlay using arc view soft ware overlay model builder. The operation yielded a layer of preferred industrial land use options in a map form. 3 areas of varying suitabilities (Area 7,8 and 9) resulted from this operation. Area 7 occupies 10% of the study area suitable for industrial land use options; area 8 occupies 70% and has low suitability for industrial land use while area 9 occupies 20% of the land unit unsuitable for industrial land use.
Open Access
Application of soil quality morphological index in assessing soil health of arable farms on isophyperthermic ruptic-alfic dystrudepts in Owerri, Southeastern Nigeria
(R. Durson Associates, 2006) Onweremadu, E. U.; Opara, C. C.; Oti, N. N.; Uozoho, B. U.; Ibe, A. E.; Tom, C. T.; Onwubiko, N. C.; Nwokeji, E. M.
Soil quality morphological index (SQMI) was used to assess soil health of arable farms on soils along Otamiri River in Owerri, Nigeria. Sampled points were identified based on physiography and linked using a transect. Three minipedons were dug at equal inter minipedal distance of 35 metres and sampled. Results showed that soils on a levee had the best quality (SQM1 = 3. 52), followed by Terace (SQMI = 2.83), Backswamp (SQMI 2: 75) and least in Upland soils (SQMI =2.64). Soil quality has a good relationship with organic matter (r = 0.92; r2 =0.84; 1 r2— 0.16; P-0.05). Results of soil properties were used to classify soils of the site as Isohyperthermic Ruptic-Alfic Dystrudepts (USDA. Soil Taxonomy).
Open Access
Assessment of multi-band capabilities in the detection of build-up area in Northwest Nigeria
(U. P., 2006) Njoku, D. John; Okoli Chidi G; Atulegwu P. Uzoije; Iwuji, Martin C
Corrected and uncorrected SPot XS Imagiries are used to achieved comparative assessment of build - up area land use and land use cover classes in Northwest Nigeria. The build -up environment showed on both imageries. The PAVM was used to determine the ability of data sets to produce similar results over the area . Result indicate a low PAVM value for the tertiary level urban land use and land cover classes except the commercial area. vacant lands, industrial area and open spaces show zero values. The results have implications on the planning of urban and natural resources development in the ecologically fragile region of Northwestern NIgeria.
Open Access
Assessment of sullage chemical properties treated with activated carbon from selected agrowastes
(Elixir Publishers, 2019) Nduka, Chidimma Adamma; Okereke, Josephath Nwabueze; Chukwudi, Peter
Sullage was treated with selected carbonized Agro-wastes (rice husk, corn cob and coconut husk). The Agro-wastes were first carbonized at 600oC and chemically activated using phosphoric acid (H3PO4). They were then used as adsorbents for the removal of chemical compounds: pH, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), nitrate (NO3-), phosphate (PO4-), chloride (Cl-) and sulphate (SO4 2-) from sullage using titration and spectrophotometer methods. Initial concentration of the chemical parameters of sullage samples showed COD to be 486.2±87 mg/l; BOD: 175.0±3.1 mg/l; pH: 7.33±0.1; Cl-: 31.0±5.5 mg/l; NO3-: 28.6±24 ppm; PO4-: 7.08±3.2 ppm and SO4 2-:347.08±67.1 ppm. After treatments, COD ranged from 122.2±10 - 190.5±25 mg/l; BOD: 44.0±3.5 – 68.6.0±9.0 mg/l; pH: 7.08±0.1 - 7.18±0.1; Cl-: 17.28 - 21.13 mg/l; NO3-: 0.0 - 12.79 ppm and SO4 2-: 117.7 - 251.7 ppm. There was significant difference (p≤0.05) between the untreated and the treated sullage samples. The efficiency of the individual adsorbents in absorbing the chemical parameters was of this order: ricehusk>corncob>coconut husk. In combination it was, rice husk+corncob+coconuthusk > ricehusk+corncob > corncob+coconuthusk > ricehusk+coconuthusk. High percentage reduction observed of chemical properties revealed that activated carbons from rice husk, corn cob and coconut husk can be used singly or combined for the purification of sullage.