Spatial Distribution and Levels of Air Quality Parameters Within Asaba And Environs, Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the levels and spatial distribution of key air quality parameters within Asaba and environs.Five locations were sampled to assess the concentration of Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Sulphur dioxide (SO2), hydrogen sulphide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Measurement of Air pollutants methods approved by ASTM was adopted for each specific parameter. All equipment and meters were properly precalibrated before each usage for quality assurance.Findings of the study showed that measured levels of CO (0.08-0.20 ppm),H2S (0.01-0.10 ppm) and VOCs (13-20 ppm) in all sampling areas were below World Health Organization (WHO) and National Air Quality (NAQ) Guidelines and Standards for ambient conditions. However, NO2 (0.11-0.25 ppm) in all sampling areas was quite high and above regulatory limits.SO2 (0.15-0.25 ppm) was within the acceptable limit in Okwe and Ibusa but above regulatory limits in Asaba,Anwai and Okpanam.The results suggest Routine measurements should be made on a continuous basis to ascertain the volume of gaseous pollutants in the urban and rural environments