Trace element hydrochemical assessment of the Calabar Coastal Plain Aquifer, southeastern Nigeria using statistical methods

摘要: Groundwater samples from 33 locations within the Coastal Plain Sands aquifer of Calabar (Nigeria) were collected and analysed for 43 trace elements by means ICP-MS. The aim this study is to determine natural background levels as a guide future pollution monitoring aquifer. Secondly, article focuses on vulnerability coastal plain sand Statistical methods have been used source(s) these elements. Results show that area characterised four types groundwater, including: Na-HCO3, Na-HCO3-Cl, Na-Cl Ca-Na-HCO3-Cl. all considered are below normal averages. In addition, Spearman correlation shows significant especially among lanthanide group (p<0.0001). Factors analyses indicate mainly two groups first being due geochemical process (weathering/leaching basement lithology; characteristics elements) second tidal flushing estuary. This indicates source element in geogenic not anthropogenic. Thus, present data set will serve reference area.