ANALYSIS OF POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS CONTENT OF SURFACE WATER, PLANT AND SOIL IN AGBANI COMMUNITY IN NKANU WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ENUGU STATE

Contamination of surface water, Plants and soil with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)) is an issue of current global concern. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is originated from commercial, incineration and industrial sources. Hence, there is a need for monitoring their occurrence and distribution in the environment. This study assessed the occurrence, distribution and composition profiles of PCBs in Agbani Village in Enugu State.   Samples such as surface water, soil and plants were collected randomly in Section (A, B and C) which represents the four cardinal points of the community. The levels of polychlorinated biphenyls were analyzed using an Agilent 7890A Gas chromatograph coupled to an Agilent 5975C mass selective detector.  The following poly chlorinated biphenyls compounds (Lindane, Endosulfan, Emamectin, Dichlovos, Isopropyl amine, Aldrin, Nonachlor, Chlordane and Heptachlor) were detected. The level of poly chlorinated biphenyl found in Section (A, B and C) for surface water is as follows: (4.02356 mg/ml), (2.65755 mg/ml) and (2.82669 mg/ml), Soil:  (7.9749 mg/g), (6.8343 mg/g) and (3.6558), Plant: (0.005 mg/g), (0.01256mg/g) and (0.00465 mg/g) respectively. The level of polychlorinated biphenyls found in Section A was relatively higher than other values obtained in Section C and B. Moreover, human, Agricultural and industrial activities has led to increase of polychlorinated biphenyls within the study area. Therefore, Government should deem it necessary to regulate or monitor industrial activities within the study area. Finally, Surface water located within these areas should not be used for any form of domestic activities hence, should be treated before consumption.