Hydrogeochemical Classification and Groundwater Quality Status of Paiko Sheet 185, North-Central, Nigeria.

Abstract

Abstract

Paiko Sheet is witnessing increasing population due to its proximity to Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, presence of economic minerals and fertile land for agriculture. Increase in human activities increases waste generation that could affect the quality of groundwater if not properly disposed. Hydrogeochemical studies was carried out to classify and determine the quality status of groundwater of the area. Groundwater physical parameters were analyzed in the field while the chemical parameters were analyzed in the laboratory. Cations were analyzed with Micro-Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy while anions were analyzed with Ion Chromatography. Ca2+ and SO42- were the most abundant of the cations and anion respectively. The groundwater of the area was classified as fresh with TDS values. The dominant water type was Ca2+- Mg2+ and Cl-- SO42--HCO3-; and four groundwater sources that could have resulted from four hydrochemical processes of which simple dissolution or mixing is dominant were observed in the area. The pollution index shows that groundwater within the studied area was polluted by Fe2+, Ni2+, K+, Mg2+, Al3+, Cd2+, As+, Hg2+ and Pb2+. This implies that the groundwater should not be consumed without treatment. Treatment with some local materials have been suggested.