Oil residuals in lowland forest soil after pollution with crude oil

Abstract

Research on oil residuals in lowland forest soil was carried out in 6 sample plots in the lowland forest ecosystem located in an oil field. Four plots were differently affected in terms of discharged oil and the time lapsed after the accident, as well as in terms of micro-relief terrain features. One plot was established in a reclaimed mud ditch site, while the control plot was set up in a micro-relief elevation outside the influence of oil pollution.Total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations were measured at three soil depths at the beginning and the end of the vegetation period. The analysis of the results revealed significant differences in petroleum hydrocarbon concentrations among the sites. Increased TPH concentrations were recorded in several plots, while the values measured in some other plots indicated very low quantities of residual TPH in the soil. The highest average TPH concentrations (200-400 mg kg −1 ) were recorded in the mud ditch site. In one of the plots exposed to oil pollution after an oil pipe rupture, there was the constant presence of increased TPH concentration in the surface soil part (>200 mg kg −1 on average). The sporadic presence of increased TPH concentrations in micro-depressions that cannot be attributed to a local accident indicates seasonal soil pollution with petroleum carbohydrates from floodwater.The soil in the sample plots is not contaminated with soluble salts or heavy metals. Low values of TPH concentrations in the soil water eluate indicate that the soil does not represent a source of hydrospheric pollution with petrol hydrocarbons.

Biostimulation potential of biochar for remediating the crude oil contaminated soil and plant growth

“…More reduction was encountered at a 15% level of oil as compared to a 10% level of oil. Plants growing in oil-contaminated soil are documented to have a reduction in growth due to the accumulative impact of toxicity of hydrocarbons and inadequate aeration because of blockage of soil pores with crude oil ( Pernar et al, 2006 ). Soil with a high level of oil has led to an increase in growth inhibition because of difficulty in the water and ion absorption.…”

Evaluation of Some Organic Remedies Effects on Some Soil Properties and Crop

“…Petroleum hydrocarbons (PHCs) usually consist of alkanes (linear or branched), cycloalkanes, aromatic hydrocarbons or more complex chemicals (Pernar et al, 2006). There are three main approaches in dealing with contaminated sites: identification of the problem, assessment of the nature and degree of the hazard, and the best choice of remedial action.…”

Resource Productivity under Yam Based Crop Mixture in Crude and Non-Crude Oil Producing Communities of Imo State, Nigeria

“…The 47 kobo profit difference could be attributed to effects of crude oil exploitation activities in crude oil producing communities. These effects resulted principally from oil spillage that reduced the fertility of most arable lands and gas flaring which reduced yield of food crops in the area (Odu, 1983;Ukaegbu and Okeke, 1987;Olemeforo, 2000;Ezedike, 2000;Pernar et al, 2006).…”

“…Okoli (2006) reported that pollution due oil exploitation is caused by gas flaring, pipeline leakage, oil water dump and oil spills. They have deleterious consequences on the agro-ecosystem that in turn adversely affects food crops productivity (Ukaegbu and Okeke, 1987;Olemeforo, 1994;2000;Ezedike, 2000;Pernar et al, 2006;Alam et al, 2010). Besides, Opukri and Ibaba (2008) also observed that oil related environmental problems such as oil spillages, gas flaring, among others, have diminished the productivity of oil producing communities.…”