Hydrogeochemical quality and characterisation around the sediment-basement contact of Akamkpa and environs Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

Twelve water samples were collected around the Odukpani-Akamkpa southeastern Nigeria. The goal was to assess the drinking water sources in the farming and quarrying land use areas. This was achieved by determining hydrochemical facies, water types and suitability of the water quality for domestic, irrigation and other uses. Concentrations of Fe, Mn, As and NH4+ recorded mean values that exceeded acceptable limits for potable water using potable water guidelines and are potentially toxic elements. Ferruginous waters rust borehole installation materials, impart reddish colour while arsenic is carcinogenic. (NH4+) recorded the highest cationic mean value in the water samples. The ionic ratios: Na+/Ca2+, HCO3−/Cl indicated fresh water condition. The ionic ratio values of Cl−/HCO3−, CEV and Mg/Ca2+ show that the groundwater is of low salt inland origin. The water type in the study area is HCO3−, Na+K and Cl-SO42−, Na+Mg. Cations trend as: NH4+>Ca2+>Mg2+>Na+>K+. Anions trend in the order HCO3−>Cl−>SO42−>NO3−.