Evaluation of Diesel Range Organics of Some Petroleum Polluted Remediated Soils within Rivers, South-East Region, Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluated the levels of Diesel range organics (DRO) in soil samples of some petroleum polluted remediated sites within the Rivers State South-East geographical region of Nigeria. The research provides insight into the level of contamination and the effectiveness of remediation efforts in the region. Forty soil samples were collected from eight remediated sites, and were analyzed using Agilent GC equipped with a Flame Ionization Detector. The mean DRO values obtained ranged from 36.10 to 84.75 mg/kg. The results of their mean values were compared to their control values which ranged between 10.96 and 19.32 mg/kg. The DPR, NOSDRA, and EGASPIN standard limits were used to compare the obtained results. The results showed varying levels of DRO in the soil samples, with some sites showing high levels of contamination and others showing successful remediation efforts in the region. It also buttressed the importance of effective regulation of the petroleum industry in Nigeria.