Determination of Lead and Other Elements in Gold Matrix Using Proton Induced X-Ray Emission At Maga, Danko Wasagu, Kebbi, Nigeria

Abstract

Lead poisoning is becoming an epidemic in and around Kebbi State lately. Five samples were collected from mining Sites believed to have high lead concentration. Proton induced X-ray emission (PIXE) technique of 2.5MeV proton beam was used to characterize five geological samples collected from Maga, Danko Wasagu LG, Kebbi State, Nigeria to determined concentration of Lead (Pb) and other trace elements. Samples were irradiated and analyzed at Centre for Energy Research and Development, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. The result obtained indicated that Pb is of commercial deposit in all the samples. Alongside, Si, S, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Fe, Cu, Zn, Rb, Sr, Zr, Ba, P, V, Mn, Cl, Ce and Ni were determined. The result obtained for Pb concentration in samples A, B, C, D and E were 943ppm, 445ppm, 3279ppm, 212𝟶ppmand 529ppm respectively, which is above the world health recommendation of 400ppm for areas with children.Also element Si and Fe concentrations appear to be deposited in commercial quantities. These values imply that the miners and surrounding communities of Maga, Danko Wasagu LG, Kebbi State, Nigeria are at risk of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, behavioural problems, stunted growth, hearing problems, anaemia, kidney damage, stomach pain, mental retardation, coma, and death due to the high concentration of Pb.