Determination of Physico-Chemical Parameters, Zinc and Iron Levels in Domestic Waters of Katsina Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Physico-chemical parameters, Zinc and Iron levels of sixteen different samples of the domestic waters obtained from some designated areas in Katsina metropolis were determined to ascertain the level of water quality. The parameters investigated were pH: (6.55±0.10-8.34±0.15), turbidity (1.75±0.08-4.86±0.00FTU), DO (1.15±0.03-7.75±3.12mg/L), BOD (22.70±3.44-46.00±8.42mg/L), COD (55.00±4.55-89.25±6.35mg/L), bicarbonate (12±0.00-40±3.86mg/L), chloride (10±2.65-25±1.96mg/L) and nitrate (0.00±0.00mg/L). Zinc and Iron levels were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Water pH and physico-chemical parameter values investigated were below the WHO safe limit. This indicates that the domestic waters are fit for human consumption. The mean concentrations of the metals ranged from 0.75±0.05 to 8.25±0.23ppmZn and from 0.46±0.06 to 0.82±0.03ppmFe. With the exception of rainwater samples, the concentrations of Zn in all samples were below WHO recommended safe limit for Zn in drinking water. High concentrations of Fe were detected in all samples investigated, which were above WHO recommended safe limit. High concentrations of Fe in the water samples are indications that these domestic waters have been polluted, suggesting potential health risk for human consumption. The analysis of variance results computed for this study showed that Zinc contents (F=5.53) of the domestic waters had no significant differences (p>0.05) while that of Iron contents (F=133.34) had significant differences (p<0.05) with control sample, distilled deionized water (DDW) confirming contamination by Fe. However, it is recommended that there should be monitoring and evaluation of physico-chemical parameters and heavy metal levels in domestic waters to ascertain water quality at regular intervals and maintaining data base. Also, local inhabitants are advised to avoid drinking and utilizing rainwater to prepare herbal concoctions due to high concentrations of Zinc and Iron.