Geophysical investigation of the effects of waste dump on groundwater quality in Rukpokwu, Port Harcourt Metropolis
1 Department of Geology, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
2 Department of Geology and Mining Technology, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Research Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2022, 13(01), 583–589
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2022.13.1.0074
Publication history:
Received on 18 December 2021; revised on 20 January 2022; accepted on 22 January 2022
Abstract:
Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) was carried out in Rukpokwu, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria to investigate the effect of waste dump on groundwater quality in the study area. An ABEM SAS 300 terrameter was used. Schlumberger configuration was adopted for the sounding to acquire a 4 point data, and at Rukpokwu adjudged to be free from waste dumps which served as control. The result of the resistivity survey was interpreted by IPI2WIN computer software, revealing the subsurface lithology, thickness of lithology, prolific auriferous zones, curve types and zones of contamination. The Niger Delta has a shallow water table which makes it prone to easy contamination. Different resistivity values were obtained; high resistivity values are an indication of uncontaminated subsurface lithologic zones while low resistivity values are an indication of contaminated subsurface lithologic zones as a result of dissolved ions and metals from waste dumps decomposing through biochemical reactions, hydrolysis, oxidation and reduction processes which subsequently leads to the formation of leachate. This leachate is in hydraulic continuity with groundwater flow which eventually leads to groundwater contamination. Therefore a geophysical survey is essential and necessary before a borehole drilling project is carried out in order to ascertain the depth to prolific aquifer which will give potable water free from contamination.
Keywords:
Geophysical investigation; Resistivity; Waste Dump; Groundwater; Rukpokwu; Rivers State
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