Distribution, Levels, Potential Sources and Human Health Risk Assessment of Trace Metals in Atmospheric Particulate Matter in Ogbia communities of Bayelsa State, Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

The occurrence of toxic metals in atmospheric particulate matter is of high risk to human health. Hence, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the distribution, concentrations, potential sources and human health risk assessment of trace metals in atmospheric particulate matter in Ogbia communities of Bayelsa State, Niger Delta, Nigeria. Samples of atmospheric particulate matter were digested using a mixture of acids, and quantification of trace metals was achieved using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (Model: Buck 230 ATS). The concentration (µg m^-3) of trace metals in atmospheric particulate matter ranged as follows: Pb (<0.010 - 0.060), Cd (<0.010 - 0.880), Ni (<0.010 - 0.028), Cu (<0.010 - 0.046), Zn (<0.010 - 0.028), and Co (<0.010 - 0.021). Except nickel (Ni) and cadmium (Cd), other metal concentrations were below the US EPA limits. Principal component analysis indicated a common source of the studied metals and two major factors (gas flaring and uncontrollable fossil fuel combustion) were identified; while non-carcinogenic risk due to inhalation indicated negligible health risk. Therefore, hazardous effects due to inhalation of trace metals in atmospheric particulate matter in the study area is minimal.