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SORPTION OF LEAD (II) FROM
AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS USING CHEMICALLY MODIFIED AND UNMODIFIED
Dioscorea alata (Yam) and Manihot esculenta (Cassava) PEELS
B.O. Opeolu1, O.
Bamgbose*1, T.A. Arowolo1 and
M.T.Adetunji2,
1Department
of Environmental Management & Toxicology, University of
Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
2
Department of Soil Science and Land Management, University of
Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
(Received: 20th
January, 2008; Accepted: 16th April, 2008)
Abstract
This study evaluated the
potential of D. alata and M.esculenta peels to remove lead (Pb2+)
from aqueous solutions and industrial wastewaters. Effects of
pH, contact time, agitation, adsorbate concentration,
adsorbent weight and adsorbent modification were assessed.
The experimental data obtained were analyzed in terms of
Freundlich isotherms. Optimal adsorption for both peels was
attained at pH 5, adsorbent weight of 16mgL-1 and a
contact time of 2h. Under agitation at 150rpm, adsorption was
optimal at 30 min for both residues. Adsorption rate constants
for the unmodified yam and cassava biomass were 7.3 x 10-2L/min
and 7.2 x 10-2L/min respectively. Pb2+
removal from battery and paint effluents for yam peels were
99.9% and 79.4% respectively at 2h contact time; corresponding
values for cassava peel were 82.2% and 99.9%. Maximum
sorption (100%) was however achieved for both effluents with
yam peel when agitated for 30min at 150rpm while cassava peel
achieved 86.2% and 100% sorption under similar conditions.
Acid and alkaline modification of yam biomass did not enhance
adsorption, more especially, for the effluents. However,
alkaline modification of cassava peel increased adsorption.
Percentage desorption was between 89.8 and 97.9 for yam peel
while the values ranged between 56.6 and 99.2 for cassava
peel. Characterization of the modified and unmodified biomass
suggests a combination of physio-sorption and chemisorption
mechanisms. The study concludes that unmodified yam and
cassava peels are suitable for application in industrial
wastewater remediation.
MOBILITY PROFILE OF HEAVY
METALS IN SELECTED AUTOMOBILE WORKSHOPS IN ANAMBRA STATE,
NIGERIA
J.O. Ogbuagu, M. Orji and A.S.
Ogbuagu
Chemical Technology Unit,
Production Technology Department,
Microbiology Department, Nnamdi
Azikwe University Awka
(Received: 30th
August, 2007; Accepted: 15th May, 2008)
Abstract
In this research work, samples
of soils were collected at different depths from mechanic
workshops located at Onitsha, Nnewi and Awka metropolis in
Anambra State and analyzed for the heavy metal levels using a
Bulk VGP 210 atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results
showed mean levels of 0.943mg/g for lead; 0.2574mg/g for Zn;
0.03858mg/g for Mg; 1.3640mg for Co; 2.1488mg.g for Ca;
1.121mg/g for Cu and 0.065mg.g for Cr. These results indicate
various levels of soil pollution by heavy metals in these
areas and call for concerns because of the health implication.
EVALUATION OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL
AND SENSORY PROPERTIES OF SOYBEAN-SWEET POTATO SUPPLEMENTARY
FOODS
P.I. Akubor
Department of Food Science and
Technology, Federal Polytechnic, P.M.B. 1037, Bida
(Received: 30th
August, 2007; Accepted: 15th May, 2008)
Abstract
Supplementary foods were
prepared from blends of raw (untreated) and fermented sweet
potato flours, raw, fermented and germinated soybean flours.
The chemical, functional and sensory properties of the
supplementary foods were evaluated. The protein contents of
raw soybean flour (RSBF) and raw sweet potato flour (RSPF)
were 52 and 7%, respectively. Fermentation decreased the
protein content of raw soybean flour (SBF) but improved that
of sweet potato flour. Germination also decreased the protein
content of RSBF. The protein contents of the blends ranged
between 15.2 and 19.5%. The ash contents of the blends varied
from 1.3 to 3.3%. The bulk density of RSPF and RSBF were 0.76
and 0.63 g/cm3; respectively and varied from
0.73-0.81 g/cm3 for the blends. All the flour
samples had low value for hygroscopicity and values ranged
from 0.33-5.07%. The particle density of RSBF and RSPF were
1g/cm3 and ranged from 0.95 to 1 g/cm3
for the blends. The water absorption capacity (WAC) of RSBF
was 2-fold that of RSPF. Fermentation decreased the WAC of
both RSPF and RSBF. The WAC of the blends varied from 94 to
98%. The reconstitution index of the blends ranged between 60
and 98ml. Sensory evaluation showed there was no significant
difference (P>0.05) in colour among the supplementary foods.
However, the sensory scores for texture and flavour differed
significantly among the supplementary foods (P<0.05). The
overall acceptability scores for the blends of RSPF and RSBF
and germinated soybean flour (GSBF), FSPF and RSBF were higher
than those of the other blends. All the supplementary foods
were generally accepted by the panelists
COLORIMETRIC DETERMINATION OF
MEBENDAZOLE USING CHLORANILIC ACID
U.
Ajali1, B. Ezema2 and P.O. Ukoha2
1Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, University of
Nigeria, Nsukka
2Department
of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Faculty of Physical
Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State.
(Received: 15th
January, 2008; Accepted: 2nd June, 2008)
Abstract
Spectrophotometric analysis of mebendazole-chloranilic acid
complex was studied. Stable and instantaneous purple complex
was formed on mixing mebendazole solution with chloranilic
acid in dioxan at ambient temperature. The Job's plot of
continuous variation method indicated a 1.1 stoichiometry for
the interaction and the product exhibited maximum absorption
band at 500 nm. The complexation attained equilibrium after
30min from time of mixing and was found to be stable-over a
period of 2.5 h after which marked reduction was observed as
there was decrease in absorbance. Beer's Law was obeyed over
the concentration range of 3.4 x 10-5 -2.30
x 10-2 molL-1.
The molar absorptivity was 1.43x10-4Lmol-1cm-1.
The mean percentage recovery for assayed mebendazole tablet (vitameb
®) was 97.35%.
.
BASELINE HEAVY METALS
CONCENTRATION IN RIVER SEDIMENTS WITHIN OKITIPUPA SOUTHEAST
BELT OF THE NIGERIAN BITUMINOUS SAND FIELD
Ademola F. Aiyesanmi
Chemistry Department, Federal
University of Technology, P.M.B. 704, Akure, Nigeria.
(Received: 31st
March, 2008; Accepted: 2nd June, 2008)
Abstract
Sediment samples from the course
of four major rivers within the Okitipupa southeast belt of
the Nigerian bituminous sand field were taken over three years
and analysed for As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, V,
and Zn using the atomic absorption spectroscopic method. Some
specific physico-chemical characteristics, such as sediment
particle size, pH and organic carbon content, which are known
to influence the interactions and dynamics of metals within
the sediment matrix, were also determined. Significant
difference (p<0.05) in Ba, Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and V levels for
dry and wet seasons’ results was recorded with significant
seasonal variation in Pb and V concentrations. Different
levels of variability in metal concentrations among the
sampling points were also revealed in the calculated
coefficient of variation, which ranged between 38.03% in As
and 260.67% in Hg. The concentration ranges of metal (in mg/kg
of dry sediment) measured were in the order of Fe(70.62 –
799.97) > Ni(15.48 – 133.47) > Cu(0.33 – 25.94) > Mn(0.88 –
15.72) > As(1.01 – 9.04) > V(nd – 2.59) > Cr(0.13 – 2.40) >
Pb(0.08 – 2.18) > Hg(nd – 1.51) > Ba(0.09 – 1.19) > Zn(0.05 –
0.79 > Cd(nd – 0.08). The significant correlation (p<0.05),
which, however, exists between some of the metals, suggests
that they are more of lithological or crustal origin. Since
bitumen exploitation is yet to commence in the area these data
could serve as baseline information for future environmental
performance evaluation of bitumen exploration and production
processes.
TEMPORAL AND SPATIAL
VARIATIONS OF BENZENE IN THE ATMOSPHERE
E.G. Olumayede1,
J.M. Okuo*2, E.E. Ukpebor2 and A. P.
Oviawe2
1Chemistry
Unit, LEM Department, Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State
2Air
Pollution Research Group, Department of Chemistry, University
of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
(Received: 2nd
February, 2008; Accepted: 4th June, 2008)
Abstract
The quantification of benzene in
the ambient air of cities is important due to its carcinogenic
effects in human’s health. Temporal and spatial variations of
benzene distribution in Benin City have been assessed.
Passive sampling approach (Diffusion tubes from Drager Safety,
Lübeck, Germany) was adopted in this study. The samplers were
exposed at a height of about 1.5m at the sampling sites and
seven days sampling duration was observed. Measurement was
done between February and July, 2007. One way analysis of
variance (Anova) revealed significance difference (P
<
0.01) in the spatial distribution of this carcinogens.
Temporal variations were also significant, with higher benzene
values measured in dry season. Quite remarkably, the European
Union threshold benzene limit of 5mgm-3
was complied with at the sampling sites.
CHELATION OF ZINC (II) METAL
ION FROM WASTE WATER WITH BIOPOLYMERIC CHITOSAN LIGAND
PRODUCED FROM SNAIL SHELL
S. Adewuyi,
T.F. Akinhanmi, E.O. Taiwo and A. A. Adeyemi
Chemistry Department, University of Agriculture Abeokuta, P M
B 2240, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
(Received: 10th April, 2008; Accepted: 6th
June, 2008)
Abstract
A new bioligand chitin was
extracted from snail shell and employed for the production of
high purity and porous chitosan. The chitin and chitosan were
analysed using IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis to show
the efficiency of N-deacetylation. The prepared chitosan was
investigated as a chelating material for zinc (II) metal ion
from ZnO waste water by equilibrium method. Atomic absorption
spectrophotometer (AAS) was used to determine the milligram of
chelated Zn (II) ion per gram of ligand molecule. At pH 4.5,
the maximum chelation capacity was 6.5 x 106 mg of
zinc per gram of chitosan over 24 hrs of the experimental
duration.
ENHANCED METAL ADSORPTION BY
GROUNDNUT HUSKS MODIFIED WITH CITRIC ACID
M.E. Chukwuedoa*
and F.E. Okiemenb
aDepartment
of Chemistry, Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma, Edo State
bUniversity
of Benin, Department of Chemistry & Centre for Biomaterials
Research, Benin City
(Received: 6th April,
2008; Accepted: 10th October
2008)
Abstract
A method was developed to
enhance metal ion adsorption of groundnut husks for wastewater
treatment. Groundnut Husk were extracted with 0.1M NaOH and
modified by treatment with 0.6M citric acid solution at 290C.
Batch adsorption studies of Cd2+, Pb2+
and Ni2+ from aqueous solution were carried out at
ambient temperature. The effects of concentration and time on
the metal ions uptake were investigated. The sorption data
fitted Langmuir isotherm equation. The maximum adsorption
capacities (xm) of the three metal ions were 5.49mgg-1,9.11mgg-1
and 16.34mgg-1 respectively. Base –
extraction before citric acid modification of husks resulted
in appreciable increase in the amount of cadmium and lead ions
adsorbed and slight increase in the amount of nickel ion
adsorbed. Citric acid modification of groundnut husks greatly
enhanced metal ions removal which makes the citric acid
modified groundnut husks suitable for metal ions removal from
wastewater.
THE FLUORIDES CONTENT OF
DRINKING WATER SAMPLES FROM NDOKWA AREA, SOUTH - SOUTH
NIGERIA.
S.H.O. Egboh and E.M.
Emeshili
Chemistry Department, Delta
State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
(Received: 23rd
October, 2007; Accepted: 11th June, 2008)
Abstract
Dental caries and fluorosis have
been observed as major adverse effects of the insufficient or
excess presence of fluorides in drinking water and general
diets of man. Fluoride concentrations present in the drinking
water sources from Ndokwa area were studied and analysis of
samples done using Standard Methods according to American
Public Health Association. Values obtained is 0.15 ± 0.002mgL-1
in surface waters while underground water shows values of
0.139 ± 0.010 mgL-1. These values falls below the
1.5 mgL-1 optimum guideline expected of drinking
water sources. This study therefore calls on all tiers of
government and relevant agencies on the need for the
fluoridation of the water supplies to the Ndokwa communities.
ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS OF SOME
COCOYAM SPECIES MARKED IN SOUTH-ESTHERN PART OF NIGERIA
P.C. Njoku, A.A. Ayuk and O.N.
Egwim
Department of Chemistry Federal
University of Technology, P.M.B. 1526 Owerri, Imo State,
Nigeria
(Received: 15th
January, 2007; Accepted: 11th June, 2008)
Abstract
The three edible cocoyam species
(Xanthasoma, Colocasia, and Grant Taro were analyzed for their
oxalate contents and level of some elements using unicam 919
absorption spectrophotometer. The oxalate content obtained
were 0.378µg/g for Xanthasoma Sagittifolium (Ede Uhie),
0.252µg/g for colocasia esculenta (Ede Ocha) and 0.433µg/g for
Gaint Taro (Ede Okoriko). The results obtained showed that
Xanthasoma sagittifolium specie contained 14.00µg/g of Cu,
60.00µg/g of Fe, 6.25µg/g of As; 0.85µg/g of Be, 0.20µg/g of
Hg and 3.33µg/g of Pb. Ni, Cd, Mn and Zn were not detected.
The colocasia esculenta specie contained 22.00µg/g of Cu;
65.00µg/g for Fe, 12.50µg/g of As, 1.70µg/g of Be, 0.10µg/g of
Hg, 6.00µg/g of Mn; 94.50µg/g of Zn and 3.36µg/g of Pb. Ni,
and Cd were not detected. The Gaint tairo specie contained
18.0µg/g of cu, 55.0µg/g of Fe, 18.75µg/g of As, 0.85µg/g of
Hg and 10.00µg/g of Pb. Ni, Cd, Mn and Zn were again not
detected. Results show that the Giant tairo specie contain the
highest level of oxalate which makes it least edible than
other species.
SYNTHESIS OF THIAMINE
ANALOGUES FOR USE AS INTERNAL STANDARDS IN THE CHROMATOGRAPHIC
ASSAY OF THIAMINE AND ITS PHOSPHORYLATED METABOLITES
Ndoni, Solomon Ameniyegba
Department of Biological
Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
(Received: 16th
March, 2008; Accepted: 13th June, 2008)
Abstract
Internal standards are very
useful in high performance liquid chromatographic methods, as
it gives a fair comparison of elution time and peak. For the
determination of thiamine and its phosphorylated metabolites,
an internal standard which has the properties and structure
closely similar to thiamine is required. Chloroethylthiamine
and O-acetylthiamine meets this criterion. They were prepared
successfully, and applied to the assay of thiamine and its
metabolites. Chloroethylthiamine in the HPLC analysis gave a
single peak of retention time 19.07 min, eluting last as a
thiochrome derivative from the column (4 μm ODS column, 3.9 x
150 mm) with a pre-column sentry guard (3.9 x 20 mm). O-Acetylthiamine
was degraded to thiamine in the column. The NMR and ES-MS
chromatograph were as expected. The yield for O-acetylthiamine
however, was low, but was enough for the application to the
column.
MONITORING THE POSSIBLE
EFFECT OF GARLIC ADDITIVE ON THE PROPERTIES OF NATURAL RUBBER
VULCANZITE
E.G. Olumayede1*and
B.F. Adeosun2
1Chemistry
Uint, Liberal & Extra Mural Studies Dept., Rufus Giwa
Polytechnic, P.M.B 1019 Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria
2
Science Tech. Dept., Federal
Polytechnic, P.M.B 5351, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
(Received: 16th
March, 2008; Accepted: 13th June, 2008)
Abstract
The effects of garlic additive
and part replacement of sulphur in the conventional curative
systems (mercapto benzothiazole – sulphur) MBT/S, (cyclohexyl
benzothiazole sulphenamide-sulphur) CBS/S, and semi 0 EV on
the mechanical and cure properties of natural rubber compound
have been studied. Results show that the addition of garlic
powder at content less or equal to 6pphr to the conventional
MBT/S mix improves the tensile strength of natural rubber
compound. Part replacement of sulphur with garlic powder in
the conventional MBT/S system in which sulphur has been
replaced with garlic up to a level of 1.5pphr show comparable
reversion resistance, cure rate index and scorch resistance to
the conventional MBT/S systems containing less or equal to
6pphr garlic.
Addition of 2pphr garlic powder
to semi-EV system improves tensile strength, while tensile
strength depress on the addition of 2pphr garlic powder to the
CBS/S system. It appear advantageous therefore to include
garlic powder in the corresponding formulation of natural
rubber compound.
EVALUATION OF CORN SHEALTH,
CORN COB AND PLANTAIN PEELS AS POTENTIAL ALKALI SOURCES FOR
SOAP PRODUCTION
S.O. Okoh, M.O. Oresanya, F.
Ezebor, S. A. Ajani and A.S. Ahmed
Federal Institute of Industrial
Research Oshodi, Lagos, Nigeria
(Received: 7th
November, 2007; Accepted: 16th June, 2008)
Abstract
Corn sheath, corn cob, peels of
ripe and unripe Plantain which are some of the common
agro-wastes in Nigeria were collected from markets at Oshodi,
Oke-Arin ,Alimosho and Mushin in Lagos state. They were sun
dried and ashed at 150o C. Their suitability as
alkali source for soap production was evaluated.
Chemical analysis showed that
the liquid extracts of these different agricultural wastes
contain varying quantities of magnesium, potassium and sodium
compounds that can be used for soap production.
The common active ingredients in
the four agro wastes were Magnesium carbonate (MgCO3)
2.76 ± 0.04% for corn sheaths, 2.56±0.01 for corn cobs
1.67±0.03% for unripe plantain peels and potassium hydroxide (KOH)
1.60 ± 0.03% for corn sheaths and 0.07 ± 0.04% for unripe
plantain peels.
COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE USE OF
BRONSTED AND LEWIS ACIDS AS DEXTRINIZATION CATALYSTS FOR
SORGHUM STARCH. 1: HCl and FeCl3
Ikechukwu D. Anyaogu a
and Paul M. Ejikeme*
Department of Pure and
Industrial Chemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
(Received: 14th
April, 2008; Accepted: 19th June, 2008)
Abstract
Dextrinization of starch from
sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) grains were effected with varying
quantities of HCl (Bronsted acid) and FeCl3 (Lewis
acid) at 1100C for 30min. The catalysts load varied
from 0.004-0.005mmole per gram of starch. The resulting
dextrins were used to formulate adhesives tackified with KOH.
The adhesives were evaluated for viscosity, drying time and
peel strength. Results indicate that FeCl3
catalysed dextrins generally gave adhesives which have
superior properties with respect to flow and strength while
the HCl catalysed types gave faster drying adhesives. The load
levels of catalysts required for optimum adhesive performance
was 0.004mmole HCl and 0.002mmole FeCl3. At the
optimal load of catalysts, the dextrins obtained gave
adhesives that had relative viscosities of 3.37 and 9.4;
set-to-touch times of 7 and 12min; and relative peel strength
of 320 and 430g for HCl and FeCl3 catalysed
dextrins respectively.
HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATIONS IN URBAN WATER-WELLS: A CASE
STUDY OF OWERRI MUNICIPAL
Chidi Edbert Duru 1*, Victor Obinna Njoku
2 and Chidi Obi 3
1
Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Imo State.
2
Department of Chemistry Imo
State University, Owerri, P.M.B. 2000, Owerri Imo State.
3
Department of Pure and
Industrial Chemistry, University of Port Harcourt, River
State.
(Received: 26th
March, 2008; Accepted: 19th June, 2008)
Abstract
Heavy metal
concentrations in water-wells were determined in six areas
within Owerri municipal using an Atomic Absorption/Emission
Spectrophotometer. The average concentrations (mg/L) of the
heavy metals Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb and Zn respectively were:
Ugwu-Orji Layout:- 0.08, <0.04, <0.01, <0.01 and 0.24; New
Market Layout:- 0.04, <0.01, <0.01, <0.01 and 0.06; Prefab/Uratta
Estate:- 0.07, <0.01, <0.01, <0.01 and 0.10; World Bank
Housing Estate:- 0.06, <0.01, <0.01, <0.01 and 0.05; Ikenegbu
Layout:- 0.05, <0.01, <0.01, <0.01 and 0.06; Amakohia/Akwakuma
Layout:- 0.16, <0.01, <0.01, <0.01 and 0.16. The results
obtained showed that heavy metal concentrations were below the
World Health Organisation (WHO) limits for drinking water
quality, and are indicative of the near zero pollution level
of groundwater in these areas investigated.
DISSOLVING PULP FROM CORN
HUSK VIA PEROXYACETIC ACID DELIGNIFICATION: EFFECTS OF PROCESS
TIME AND TEMPERATURE
Ikechukwu D. Anyaogua
and Paul M. Ejikeme*
Department of Pure and
Industrial Chemistry, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
a
Present Address: Department of
Basic and Applied Sciences, Federal Polytechnic, PMB 001
Nasarawa, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
E-mail:
ikeanyaogu@yahoo.com
(Received:
17th March, 2008; Accepted: 19th June,
2008)
Abstract
Peroxyacetic acid
delignification of corn husk was carried out. Two series of
pulps were obtained through two sets of multilevel
experiments. The first series of pulps were obtained with
cooking temperature fixed at 900C while cooking
time was varied at 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min. In the second
series, setting the cooking time at 30 min. and varying the
temperature at 50, 60, 70, 80, and 900C obtained
pulps. The pulps obtained in the first series had yield,
alpha-cellulose content, kappa number, and lignin content in
the ranges of 34-20%, 86%, 3.9-1.5, and 0.59-0.247%,
respectively, while the same parameters in the second series
ranged as follows: 38-20%, 86-93%, 10.9-3.1, and 1.64-0.23%,
respectively. A general decrease in the yield, kappa number,
and lignin content of pulp was observed with increase in
cooking time for both series. The alpha-cellulose content
remained constant at 86% for the first series, and a maximum
of 93% obtained at 60-700C in the second series.
Pulps obtained in both series gave good quality cellulose
nitrate (CN) and cellulose acetate (CA).
EFFECT OF STORAGE TEMPERATURE
ON RANCIDITY IN SOME COMMERCIAL VEGETABLE OILS SOLD IN IDAH
TOWN, KOGI STATE
P.I. Akubor
Department of Food Science and
Technology, Federal Polytechnic, P.M.B. 1037, Bida
(Received: 5h
November, 2007; Accepted: 24h June, 2008)
Abstract
Samples of five commercial
vegetable oils were selected randomly from various locations
in Idah township, Kogi state. Some portions of the oil samples
were cooled to 100C and 200C,
respectively in a refrigerator. The other portions were heated
in aluminum pot over stove fire to 300C, 400C
and 500C, respectively. The peroxide values (PV)
and acid values (AV) of all the treated samples were
determined. The iodine values of the untreated samples
(control) were also determined. The results showed that at 100C,
life vegetable oil (LVO), Avop vegetable oil (AVOP), soybean
oil (SBO), corn oil (CNO) and groundnut (GNO) contained 2, 3,
10, 13 and 8meq/kg peroxide values (PV). The PV of the oil
samples increased steadily with increase in temperature. For
every increase in temperature, CNO had higher PV
(13-22meq/kg), than the other oils (2-17.5meq/kg). This was
closely followed by SBO (10-17.5meq/kg) and then GNO
(8-15meq/kg). The LVO (2-8meq/kg) and AVOP (3-9meq/kg) were
more stable at all the temperatures evaluated than the other
oils. The stability of the vegetable oils was related to the
iodine values of the oils, values being 50, 54, 134, 127 and
94 for LVO, AVOP, SBO, CNO and GNO respectively. The vegetable
oils had low acid values which ranged from
1.0-2.5mgKOH/g.
EQUILIBRIUM STUDIES OF THE
REACTION OF 5,5'-DITHIOBIS
(2-NITROBENZOIC ACID) WITH
THE OXYHAEMOGLOBIN DERIVATIVE OF PIGEON HAEMOGLOBIN
O.V. Akpoveta1 and
S.A. Osakwe2*
1Department
of Chemistry, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Department of Chemistry, Delta
State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
(Received: 4th July,
2007; Accepted: 30th June, 2008)
Abstract
Equilibrium constant (Keq)
for the reaction of the oxyhaemoglobin derivative of pigeon
haemoglobin with 5,5'-dithiobis (2-nitrobenzoic acid) [DTNB]
was determined experimentally at various pH values (pH 5.7 to
pH 9.0). The study was carried out with the aid of a
UV-visible spectrophotometer. The Apparent Second order
forward rate constant (KF) for this reaction has
previously been determined as a function of pH. However, the
determination of the Apparent Second order reverse rate
constant (Kr) for this reaction is not feasible
from kinetic experiment. Therefore, a knowledge of the
equilibrium constant will enable the determination of the
Apparent Second order reverse rate constant (Kr) as
a function of pH. The equilibrium constant (Keq)
was calculated on the basis of an equation relating Keq
to the concentrations of the species involved in the reaction.
The pH dependence of Kr was found to be simple and
increased by almost three orders of magnitude between pH 5.7
and 9.0 for the oxyhaemoglobin derivative reaction with
D.T.N.B. The results show that the reactivity of Cys F9(93)β
sulphydryl group with DTNB is faster than that of Cys B5(23)β
since its reaction gave higher values of Kr over
the entire pH range.
FRACTIONATION OF Ni AND V IN
WETLAND SOILS AND THEIR DISTRIBUTION IN TISSUES OF THE OIL
PALM
P.O. Oviasogie*1,
A.E. Aghimien2 and C.L. Ndiokwere3
1,2
Chemistry Division, Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR),
P.M.B., 1030, Benin City, Nigeria
3
Chemistry
Department, University of Benin, PMB 1154, Benin City, Nigeria
(Accepted: 2nd July,
2008)
Abstract
In the present study, the
concentration of Ni and V in their various fractions (soluble,
exchangeable, carbonate, plant available, bound to Mn-oxide,
bound to amorphous Fe-oxide, bound to crystalline Fe-oxide,
organic and residual) in the wetland soils of the Niger delta
region were determined using a modified chemical fractionation
method. Also assessed were the amount of these metals in
various tissues (leaves, mesocarp, endocarp and endosperm of
the ripened fruits) of oil palms of ages 2 – 10, 15-32 and >60
years. From the results obtained, a weighed mean of 6.13
mg/kg Ni was obtained in the carbonate fraction while 4.64
mg/kg was detected in the ‘plant available’ fraction. There
were high variations in the amounts of Ni associated with the
different fractions in the soil horizons. Ni was not detected
in the tissues of palm of 2 – 10 and 15 – 32 years
respectively. However, between 0.1-0.6 mg/kg Ni was detected
in the palms >60 years old. Similarly, 4.47 and 1.43 mg/kg
weighted mean of V were obtained in the exchangeable and
‘plant available’ fractions respectively. Vanadium was not
detected in the various tissues of the palms irrespective of
their age. From the study conducted, it can be inferred that
the varied binding associations between Ni and V in the
different fractions and their concentrations in the tissues of
the palm suggest that bioaccumulation does not necessarily or
explicitly indicate bio-availability.
SOLVENT EXTRACTION
OF
NIGERIAN BITUMEN SAMPLES AND
THE
TRACE METAL ANALYSIS OF THE
PRODUCE
WATER
H.O. Ogunsuyi, K.O.
Ipinmoroti and O.O. Ajayi
Department of Chemistry, Federal
University of Technology, P.M. B. 704, Akure, Nigeria
(Received: 15th June,
2008; Accepted: 10th July, 2008)
Abstract
Solvent extraction involving
Soxhlet and Dean and Stack
procedures
were employed in the extraction of bitumen samples from three
bitumen deposits in Odigbo Local Government area of Ondo -
State. The samples
were extracted
differently with toluene and chloroform solvents.
Optimum yields of bitumen
were
obtained with toluene
solvent using soxhlet extraction
and these amounted to
92.50%, 88.50% and 46.75% for borehole, near – surface and tar
sand respectively
compared to their corresponding lower
yields
of
87.56%, 87.13% and 43.00%
with chloroform solvent
under this
same extraction procedure.
On the other hand, Dean
and Stack procedure with toluene yielded 90.25% for borehole;
85.13% for near
- surface and 44.38% for
tar sand sample,
these yields were comparatively lower than their respective
yields of 82.25%,
78.75% and 40.62%
obtained with
chloroform.With
either procedure toluene was
a
better
solvent for
optimum yield.
Soxhlet
extraction
procedure did not involve any co-extracted water; however,
appreciable amount was obtained with Dean and Stack method.
The yields of the co – extracted water from this method were
comparable for the two solvents, with values
ranging between 24.14 and 24.32% for borehole sample, 25.21 -
26.79% for near surface and 4.83 – 4.94% for tar sand.
Trace metals
analysis conducted
on the produce - water
associated
with the borehole and near – surface bitumen showed that the
concentrations at which most of the metals determined were
present could constitute environmental pollution during
exploitation of the mineral.
BLEACHING OF RED PALM OIL BY
LOCAL KAOLIN AND ACTIVATED CHARCOAL IN COMPARISON WITH
IMPORTED FULLER’S EARTH
Atu Ausaji Ayuka
and Victor Obi Njokub,*
aDepartment
of Chemistry, School of Science, Federal University of
Technology ,P.M.B. 1526 Owerri, Nigeria
bDepartment
of Chemistry, Imo State University, P.M.B. 2000 Owerri,
Nigeria
(Received: 18th
January, 2008; Accepted: 10th July, 2008)
Abstract
The bleaching of red palm oil by
local kaolin clay, activated charcoal and a 1:1 mixture of
kaolin and activated charcoal were studied in comparison with
two commercial brands of fuller’s earth. The percent colour
reduction of red palm oil was monitored spectrophotometrically
while the free fatty acid (FFA) removal was determined
titrimetrically. Kaolin alone and the 1:1 mixture of kaolin
and activated charcoal were found to be effective in both
colour and FFA removal and compared favourably with commercial
fuller’s earth. Local kaolin alone gave 65.20 % maximum colour
reduction while the 1:1 mixture of local kaolin and activated
charcoal showed 62.74 % maximum colour reduction. This is
comparable to 62.94 and 71.99 % in Fulmont and Tonsil
bleaching earths respectively. The bleaching performance of
activated charcoal was poor with a maximum colour reduction of
8.12 %. The FFA content of the unbleached palm oil was
determined to be 31 %. The percent FFA removal from oil
bleached with various bleaching earths as a function of the
quantity of bleaching earth showed that the percent FFA
removal increased with the quantity of bleaching earth. The
percent FFA removal achieved with kaolin and 1:1 mixture of
kaolin and activated charcoal also were comparable to those of
the commercial fuller’s earth. Charcoal alone again exhibited
a poor performance in terms of FFA removal.
LIGHT FASTNESS OF NATURAL
DYES FROM DANTA (Nesogordoia papaverifera) AND ELEM (Nimbodia
nivea) ON COTTON, NYLON 66 AND ACRYLIC FABRICS
J. O. Otutu
Department of Chemistry, Delta
State University, P.M.B. 1, Abraka, Delta State
(Received: 2nd
February, 2008; Accepted: 14th July, 2007)
Abstract
Cotton nylon 66 and acrylic
fabrics were dyed with natural dyes extracted from Danta plant
(Nesogordonia papaverifera) and Elem plant (Nimbodia nivea).
Light and wash fastness of the dyed samples were studied. Pre
treatment with metallic salts and dyeing of pre treated
samples was also studied. The dyeing properties of the dyes on
cotton (a natural fibre) were compared with those of nylon and
acrylic (synthetic fibres). The results of the study show
that mordanting generally improve light and wash fastness. It
also showed that the danta derived dye has affinity for nylon
and acrylic fibres while the elem derived dye has affinity for
cotton fibre.
SEQUENTIAL FRACTIONATION OF
CADMIUM, COPPER, LEAD AND CHROMIUM IN SOILS AROUND MUNICIPAL
SOLID WASTE DUMPS IN AGBOR, NIGERIA
S.A. Osakwea* and
F. Egharevbab
aDepartment
of Chemistry, Delta State University, Abraka
bDepartment
of Chemistry, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma
(Received: 7th July,
2008; Accepted: 5th August, 2008)
Abstract
Speciation patterns of heavy
metals (Cd, Cu, Pb and Cr) in the soil profiles were
investigated using Tessier’s five steps sequential extraction
technique, in order to evaluate their potential
bioavailability and degree of contamination. The metal
concentrations in the four investigated soils fit in the
typical ranges for unpolluted soils. The speciation results
revealed that Cd was predominantly associated with Fe-Mn oxide
fraction, Cu with organic fraction while Pb and Cr were
associated with residual fraction. Significant amounts of Pb
and Cr were found on carbonate fraction. Mobility factors were
calculated and their values are in the range of 13.89 to 41.7,
indicating low mobility and bioavailability of the metals
studied. The mobility factors for the metals in all the sites
follow the order Cd > Pb > Cr > Cu. The results from the
speciation patterns observed in this study indicate that the
metals are not readily available for plants uptake.
LEVELS OF HEAVY METALS IN Uca
pugilator AND Drepane africana FROM ASE RIVER, SOUTH-SOUTH
NIGERIA
E.M. Emeshili* and S.H.O.
Egboh
*Examination and Standards,
Ministry of Education, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria
Chemistry Department, Delta
State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
(Received: 21st
November, 2007; Accepted: 8th August, 2008)
Abstract
Levels of heavy metals
accumulation in selected fauna were studied using standard
methods. Uca pugilator and Drepane africana were used as
bioaccumulative indicators. Result showed heavy metals
concentration in the following order; Fe>Cu>Mn>Zn>Pb>Cr>Cd and
Fe>Cu>Zn>Mn>Cr>Pb>Cd in the two organisms respectively. The
bioaccumulation factor follow the order Mn>Zn>Fe>Cu>Cr>Pb>Cd
for Uca pugilator while Drepane africana showed an order of
Zn>Mn>Fe>Cu>Cr>Pb>Cd. These two organisms are thus useful
indicators for the monitoring of Zinc and Manganese.
STUDIES ON THE TANNINS OF
BREADFRUIT (Treculia africana) HUSKS: EXTRACTION AND
CHARACTERIZATION
P.O. Ukoha*, P. M. Ejikeme*
and C.C. Maju+
*Department
of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, University of Nigeria,
Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria.
+Department
of Leather and Leather Products, Federal College of Chemical
and Leather Technology, Zaria, Kaduna State Nigeria
(Received: 19th June,
2008; Accepted: 13th August, 2008)
Abstract
70% aqueous acetone extract of
breadfruit husks was concentrated to obtain the reddish brown
solid tannins. Qualitative tests, including one and
two-dimensional paper chromatography ascertained the tannins
to be of condensed type (catechin). Ultraviolet and Infra red
spectra of the extract confirmed the presence of polyphenols.
The paper chromatography ran with n-butanol-glacial-acetic
acid-water (4:1:5), Toluene- acetic acid–water (4:1:5), conc.
HCl-acetic-acid-water (4:1:5), as well as 90% formic
acid-3MHCl (1:1) gave retardation factors which indicated the
presence of cyanidin and catechin in the tannins.
PROXIMATE ANALYSIS OF THREE
POPULAR LOCAL VARIETIES OF RICE
M.E. Chukwuedoa*
and A. Odiab
a, bDepartment
of Chemistry, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria
(Received: 4th May,
2008; Accepted: 18th August, 2008)
Abstract
Rice is one of the most popular
cereals in the world and its popularity has been ascribed to
its carbohydrate content which is up to 84% and even higher in
some cases. Proximate analysis of three local varieties of
rice, namely; Ekpoma long grain, Ekpoma short grain and
lllushi grain were determined. The overall analysis of the
total carbohydrate, soluble carbohydrate, fibre, crude
protein, ash and dry matter contents respectively were found
to be significantly (P<0.05) different. The effect of par
boiling paddy before milling on the nutrient composition was
also determined. The results obtained were compared with the
United Kingdom rice standard and it was observed that the
protein, fibre, ash and carbohydrate (both soluble and total)
contents of the par boiled rice were higher than the raw rice
but compared favourably with the standard one.
RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES AND
STATE OF CURE OF NATURAL RUBBER COMPOUNDED WITH BLEND OF
CARBONIZED MELON SEED SHELL AND CARBON BLACK
J.U. Iyasele*
and F.E. Okieimen
Agricultural waste research
laboratory, University of Benin, Benin City
Abstract
Carbonized melon seed shell (CMSS)
was prepared by burning melon seed shell at 350OC
in the absence of air, powdered and sieved through a mesh of
size 150µm. It was blended with carbon black (N330) and used
as filler in natural rubber (NR) compound. The proportion of
CMSS in the blend with N330 is 40per hundred rubber (phr),
37.5phr, 30phr, 20phr, 10phr, and 2.5phr. The total filler
loading of the blend in all the mix is 40phr. A laboratory two
roll mill was used for mixing. The rheometry readings and the
cure characteristics of the mixes were determined at 160OC
using a moving die Mosanto rheometer model MDR 2000. The
Mooney viscosity was determined on MKIII Mooney viscometer.
There is a marginal increase in viscosity in CMSS and N330
blend filled NR but higher with higher percentage of N330 in
the blend .The torque–time curve obtained from rheometer
reading of all the mixes followed similar pattern. The
induction time decreases with a decrease in N330 content in
the blend of N330 and CMSS filled natural rubber. The addition
of the filler blend increases the rate of scorch over the
gum rubber. The rate of cure increases with increase in the
percentage of CMSS in the blend. However, the more the N330
in the mix, the higher the maximum torque. Comparatively,
blending of CMSS with N330 improves the torque and other cure
characteristics of filled natural rubber.
AIR QUALITY ASSESSMENT IN A CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COMMUNITY
WITH A FLOW STATION
S.A. Uzoekwe*, E.E. Ukpebor** and S.I. Ahonkhai**
*Basic Sciences Department,
Benson Idahosa University, Benin City
**Chemistry Department,
University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
Abstract
The quality
of air in Gelegele community, with a flow station, has been
assessed in both wet and dry seasons by using NO2.
In this survey which was carried out between September 2002
and August 2003, Palmes diffusion tubes were used to determine
NO2 concentration in ambient air of the studied
area. A NO2 range of 8.75 – 48.52µgm-3
was obtained for the five locations studied. This upper limit
of this range has slightly exceeded the WHO regulatory limit
of 40µgm-3 annual average. Spatial and temporal
variations were noticed in the NO2 distribution.
The principal component analysis identified two factors with
factor 1 (gas flaring) contributing over 73.0%. Finally,
temporal cluster membership of the data was identified.
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