Occurrence and distribution of heavy metals in indoor settled particles in Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

The increased application of technology, industrialization and growing population has resulted in the emission of wastes such as heavy metals that pollute the environment. The occurrence and distribution of heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn) in settled particles (indoor) collected from selected residential in Lagos metropolis over a two- year period (February, 2007 – July, 2008) was therefore investigated. The measurements of heavy metals contents were performed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The results showed widespread heavy metals contamination especially Fe and Zn, which were present as the highest concentration while Cd was the lowest in the settled particles (dust). The order of occurrence of heavy metals in settled particles (dust) collected indoor in 2007 and 2008 respectively were as follows, Fe > Zn > Pb > Cu > Cr > Mn > Ni > Cd and Fe > Zn > Mn > Pb > Cr > Cu > Ni > Cd. The outcome of this study implied that dust represent major source of heavy metals around dwelling places in the Lagos metropolis and therefore should be monitored. Additionally, data from this study could stand as a reference point for subsequent monitoring.

Keywords: Heavy metals, Settled particle, Indoor, Dust, Lagos metropolis, Dwelling