Project Abstract

Abstract
The presence of mechanic workshops in urban and industrial areas often leads to the contamination of soil with petroleum-based waste oils. This study aimed to investigate the effects of petroleum levels from waste oil on soil fertility in the vicinity of a mechanic workshop. Soil samples were collected from different distances from the workshop, with varying levels of waste oil contamination. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, organic matter content, nitrogen levels, phosphorus content, and potassium levels were analyzed to assess soil fertility. The results indicated a clear correlation between the proximity to the workshop and the level of waste oil contamination in the soil. Soil samples taken from closer proximity to the workshop showed higher concentrations of petroleum compounds compared to samples taken from farther distances. This increase in petroleum levels was found to have a significant impact on soil fertility. The pH levels of the soil were observed to decrease with higher concentrations of petroleum, leading to soil acidity. Organic matter content was also negatively affected by the presence of waste oil, as petroleum compounds hindered the decomposition of organic materials in the soil. Furthermore, nitrogen levels in the soil were found to be reduced in areas with higher petroleum contamination, which can limit plant growth and microbial activity. Phosphorus content was also impacted by waste oil, with lower levels observed in contaminated soil samples. This nutrient deficiency can affect plant root development and overall soil productivity. Additionally, potassium levels were found to be lower in soils with high petroleum concentrations, further exacerbating the negative effects on soil fertility. Overall, the findings of this study highlight the detrimental effects of petroleum-based waste oil on soil fertility in the vicinity of mechanic workshops. The results underscore the importance of proper waste oil management practices to prevent soil contamination and maintain soil health. Implementing remediation techniques such as soil aeration, phytoremediation, and microbial remediation may help mitigate the impacts of petroleum contamination on soil fertility. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and sustainable solutions to address soil degradation caused by waste oil pollution.

Project Overview

1.0       INTRODUCTION

Used motor oil is a very dangerous polluting product. It contains PAH’s and high levels of metals. PAH’s such as benzo[a]pyrene, are well known for their high carcinogenity. Considerable quantities of heavy metals such as Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, Ni, and Cd are contained in used crankcase oil, these metals are highly toxic to organisms

In Nigeria, it is common among motor mechanics to dispose waste oils into gutters, water drains and soil (Okonokhua et al., 2007). Waste oils is defined as used lubricating oils obtained after servicing and subsequently draining from automobile and generator engines. Spent oils contain high percentage of aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons, nitrogen and sulphur compounds and metals (magnesium, calcium, zinc, lead) than fresh oils, these metals are introduced into the oil as a result of wear and tear of the engine (Mohd et al., 2011) (Mohd. Mozamil Bhat; Shiv Shsankar, Shikha, Mohammad Yunus and Shukai R. N (2011): Remediation of hydrocarbon contaminated soil through microbial degradation – FTIR based prediction. Advances in Applied Science Research 2(2): 321 – 326.).