Liquid-state 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was employed to characterize BPF resole resins. The 13C NMR analysis revealed that condensation reactions between bark phenolic compounds and formaldehyde occurred during resin synthesis. Notably, the BPF resin exhibited more pronounced methylene ether bridges compared to the conventional PF resin system. The 13C NMR study highlighted significant structural differences in the resins induced by the incorporation of bark-phenolic components. The inclusion of bark-phenolic components favored the formation of para-ortho methylene linkages in the BPF resins, which also enhanced the cure rate of the BPF resin system
Seeds of Neem and Watermelon were collected from two locations in Plateau State. Oils were extracted as Neem Seed Oil (NSO) and Watermelon Seed Oil (WSO) by cold Press method. The oils were analysed for phytochemicals, physicochemical as well as organoleptic properties. NSO was golden brown, had a garlic smell, viscous with a bitter taste, while WSO was golden yellow, fruity smell, light bitter taste. Phytochemicals present were Saponins, Terpenoids, Tannins and Steroids in both oils while phenols, amino acids and carbohydrates were absent in the oils. Alkaloids were present in WSO. The percentage yield (73.5% , 77.5%), moisture content (0.045±0.058%, 0.019±0.132%), density (0.752±0.021 gcm3, 0.795±0.136 gcm3), specific gravity (0.768±0.003, 0.811±0.001), saponification value (28.05±0.03 mg KOH/g, 64.515±0.06 mg KOH/g), peroxide value (52±1.34, 6±0.56), acid value (5.61±0.73, 2.805±0.15), free fatty acid value (2.805±0.181, 1.403±0.266), pH (4.43±0.45, 7.21±0.38) for NSO and WSO respectively. The study showed that these oils may not be suitable for the production of soaps but suitable for the manufacture of skin and hair care products, where it can serve as carrier oils. The presence of flavonoids, terpenoids and tanins in NSO shows its potential use for pesticidal, medicinal purposes. The WSO can be an alternative source of biodiesel.
Concerns over the use of traditional metal-based coagulants and flocculants to remove suspended particles from wastewater and drinking water are growing now. Concerning themes these days include the created non-biodegradable sludge's continued impact on human health and further degradation of aquatic habitats. Using the right treatment techniques to lower the pollutant level in receiving waters is essential to achieving coagulation. Using cassava leaf as a bio-coagulant, this study examines the coagulative decrease of turbidity, COD, BOD, and color from brewery wastewater. A Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer (FTIR) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to acquire and study these bio-coagulants for their spectrum and morphological properties. The physical-chemical characteristics of the wastewater from the brewery were examined both before and following treatment. The outcome exhibited a natural pH of 7.7 at 300 degrees Celsius. pH (5-8), coagulant dose (0.2–1.0g), temperature (400–700C), settling time (10–70mins), and particle size (0.212, 0.315, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0mm) were the factors evaluated on the coagulation–flocculation process of the brewery wastewater. The factors examined in relation to reduction efficiency revealed that as pH increased, color intensities fell from 75.64% to 70.48%. The Total Suspended Solids (TSS) drop as pH rises, from 81.89% to 79.67%. With an increase in pH, turbidity rises from 38.8% to 41.06%. At 0.3g/L of cassava leaf, the maximum decrease in turbidity was 51.22%, COD was 39.79%, BOD was 100.62%, and color was 4.7%. R2 = 0.95 was obtained by fitting the data using a pseudo first order coagulation kinetics model. At greater R2 shows that the model matches the data the best. Using the kinetic parameter (R2), PFO and PSO have respective values of 0.95 and 1.
The leaching of metals from consumer products, especially those intended for children, poses significant health risks, particularly during prolonged exposure. This study investigates the release of metals from kindergarten books under conditions mimicking saliva, simulating real-world interactions where children may explore books orally. The experiment, conducted in a controlled lab, exposed books to a saliva-like solution for various time periods. Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) was used to quantify toxic metal concentrations (As, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb). Results showed concentrations of toxic metals (mg/kg) ranging from 2.85 to 40.7 for As, 1.83 to 38.9 for Cd, 9.78 to 159 for Cu, 2.85 to 11.2 for Ni, and 36.1 to 111 for Pb. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between As and Ni. Saline extraction produced no detectable As in some samples, while Cu was found in all. Stomach acid extraction showed varying levels of Pb, As, and Cu, indicating potential health risks. The health index (HI) for most samples exceeded 0.1 for As, Cu, and Pb, with As having the highest HI values. These findings highlight the risks of metal migration from printed materials and the need for safer alternatives in children's educational resources.
This study investigates the presence of phthalate esters in bottled soft drinks and evaluates the associated health risks and regulatory considerations. Extraction was done using 15 mL of dichloromethane (DCM). A gas chromatograph equipped with a split/splitless injector and an auto-sampler coupled with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer was employed for the analysis. Analysis of various brands revealed significant concentrations of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP);DEHP had the highest concentration in Tem (36.17µg/mL) and the lowest in Sup(22.44µg/mL), while DBP ranged from 12.97µg/mL in Mira to 22.87µg/mL in Tem. DEHP also demonstrated the highest mean concentration of 28.20 ± 5.75 µg/mL. Known for its adverse effects on liver and testes. These findings underscore the potential health hazards associated with phthalate exposure, particularly to vulnerable populations. Regulatory comparisons highlight the absence of universally accepted maximum contaminant levels for phthalates in beverages, emphasizing the need for standardized guidelines to safeguard consumer health. Furthermore, discussions encompass the influence of storage conditions on phthalate leaching, with higher temperatures exacerbating contamination levels. Recommendations include consumer education on proper storage practices, industry adoption of phthalate-free packaging, and global harmonization of regulatory frameworks.
The Schiff base (NL) was synthesized by the reaction between ethanolamine and 3-nitrobenzaldehyde. The metal complexes with Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) were obtained in an alcoholic KOH medium. The diagnostic H-C=N proton shift at 8.48 δ ppm confirmed the formation of the Schiff base ligand. The stoichiometry of the metal complexes was determined through the percentage metal content by EDTA titration. The infrared spectra suggested the chelation of the ligand through the ethanolamine oxygen as a monodentate ligand. The O-H band of the hydroxide ion was observed between 3650 and 3450 cm–1. The shift in n ® p* transition from 327 nm in the ligand spectrum to 337-347 nm in the complexes was ascribed to delocalisation of lone electrons to the aromatic ring upon coordination, while the metal ions were assigned to the octahedral geometry as shown by their visible bands. The in vitro antimicrobial potency of the compounds was investigated against ten microbial strains using the agar well diffusion method. The compounds were generally active against the bacterial and fungal cells, demonstrating a broad-spectrum while the Cu(II) complex has the largest inhibition zone against Staphylococcus aure
Ibeno Beach in Akwa Ibom State faces alarming environmental challenges with potential risks on human health and the environment. Integrated approach involving classical, instrumental and space-based methods were employed to conduct rigorous heavy metal and physicochemical analyses of water, soil and plant samples to determine the extent of pollution. A total of 10 water, 10 plant (Beach morning glory: Ipomoea pes-caprae), and 20 soil samples were collected at various locations and coordinates taken. Multi-parameter analysis was conducted both in situ and in the laboratory. Physicochemical analysis of the water parameters revealed elevated levels of salt, chloride, TDS, and turbidity. Overall, the pH of samples varied significantly, and the electrical conductivity of the water samples were relatively high. Heavy metal analysis using Agilent 720 ES ICP-OES revealed moderate levels of Pb, Ni and Cr with range in water (0.01-0.04; 0.01-0.07; 0.01) mg/L, soil (0.04-51.59; 0.01-5.18; 0.01-9.69) mg/kg, and plant (1.48-6.19; 2.49-20.52; 0.73-13) mg/kg, respectively. Geospatial analysis using hyperspectral Landsat 8 sensor revealed a general landmass and feature loss indicating degradation. Statistical analysis using a one-way ANOVA at 95% confidence level revealed no significant difference in the heavy metal levels in most of the samples.
This study investigates the utilization of plastic wastes, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), poly propylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in the production of pavement block. These plastic were mixed in different ratios with cement, sand, and stone dust to produce durable and cost-effective blocks.The plastic wastes was shredded, melted (1700C-2900C), and mixed with fillers. The mixture was cast into moulds and tested for hardness and compressive strength). Significant improvements were observed: enhanced hardness (134N/mm2,), satisfactory compressive strength (33.03N/m2) compared to conventional blocks hardness 53.3N/mm2 and compressive strength 5.08N/m2) the plastic pavement blocks demonstrated superior performance. This research demonstrates the potential of plastic waste in construction, offering a sustainable solution for waste management and environmentally friendly infrastructure development.
The leaf extracts of the plant was analyzed for its phytochemical, mineral and antimicrobial activities using the standard method. The Phytochemical constituent revealed the presence of tannins in all the solvent system used for extraction. Alkaloids and phenol were present in dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous extract but absent in ethanol extract. Flavonoids, cardiac glycoside and saponins were present in aqueous and ethanol extract. Terpenoids was absent in aqueous but present in the other solvent used. The proximate composition revealed carbohydrate has the highest percentage content of 21.24%, protein: 21.10%, Fibre: 18.40%, Ash: 17.82% while lipid and moisture content are 11.94% and 9.5% respectively. The mineral composition in the leaf showed the contents (mg/g) as in order of Ca: 7.3303mg/g>K: 2.3297mg/g>Na: 1.3327mg/g>Mg: 0.7427mg/g>Fe: 0.6234mg/g>Mn: 0.2344mg/g>Cu: 0.0555mg/g>Zn: 0.0435mg/g>Cr: 0.0330mg/g>Pb: 0.0198mg/g>Ni: 0.0054>Cd: 0.0022mg/g The PPT/DCM/HP, FILT/DCM/HP, ETOA/HP and MTH/HP extract showed sensitivity in stephlococcus aureus, FILT/DCM/HP and MTH/HP are sensitive in Meth. resist staph aureous and Acinetobacter sp. The zone of inhibition against the test microorganisms occurred in the four (4) extract at 20mm, 20mm, 20mm and 22mm for staphylococcus aureus and the extract, PPT/DCM/HP(24mm), FILT/DCM/HP(20mm) and MTH/HP) in streptococcus pneumonia and PPT/DCM/HP(27mm), FILT/DCM/HP(20mm) and MTH/HP(20mm) for Acinetobacter sp. The results shows that the leaf extract plays significant role in the body metabolic system.
Produced water obtained from five (5) water injection Wells in the Niger Delta area Nigeria were analysed for heavy metal ion concentrations using Themo Elemental Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Results obtained show that concentrations of lead (Pb2+), cadmium (Cd2+), chromium (Cr2+), nickel (Ni2+), cobalt (Co2+), vanadium (V2+), zinc (ZN2+), mercury (Hg+), silver (Ag+) and copper (Cu2) were above acceptable limits as specified by Environmental Guidelines and Standard for Petroleum Industries in Nigeria (EGASPIN). The concentrations of As2+, Fe2+, K+ and Mn2+ were within specification. Commingled produced water from the five water injection Wells were subjected to hydroxide precipitation using Ca(OH)2 at concentrations of 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 ppm respectively. Results obtained show that all the heavy metal ions reduced within acceptable limit at 30 ppm chemical concentration. Heavy metal ions reduced with increase in chemical concentration with a corresponding increase in the pH of the solution which was however still within specification. The hydroxide converts the metal ions dissolved in solution into solid particles for easy sedimentation. Ca(OH)2 precipitates metal ions by changing the pH and electro-oxidizing potential of the solution. Properly treated produced water can be reinjected into the reservoir to enhance oil recovery, used in agriculture for irrigation purposes, discharged into the sea and other water bodies during offshore operations or even used in drilling services. Produced water discharged into the soil are non-biodegradable so must be adequately treated before discharge. Plants pick up heavy metals through their roots by the release of a variety of root exudates which changes the rhizosphere pH of the metal ion in solution thereby making them bioavailable for plant uptake by osmosis. Heavy metals in plants can exert a variety of toxic actions by damaging plant chloroplast thereby disturbing photosynthesis. Humans take in heavy metals into their system by consuming contaminated plants, water as well as inhaling contaminated air. Consumption, ingestion and inhalation of heavy metals by humans can cause a wide range of ailments such as cardiovascular diseases, kidney related problems, neurocognitive diseases, renal damage, heart disease, coronary artery disease, lung fibrosis, nasal cancer.
The study was directed at extraction, bioactivity analysis and ascertaining phytochemical composition of the leaf and root extracts of Acanthus montanus. Acanthus montanus (Acanthaceae family) is a shrub that is popularly grown in tropical countries of the world. The plant materials were harvested from Choba community in Rivers State, Nigeria. Extracts of Acanthus montanus (28.3, 19.45 and 25.5 g of n-hexane, ethylacetate and ethanol leaf extracts; and 3.45, 11.32 and 12.44 g of n-hexane, ethylacetate and ethanol root extracts respectively) were obtained through sequential maceration and were separately subjected to in vitro bioassay against a wide range of pathogenic microbes using the agar well diffusion method. Fifteen microorganisms were employed in the investigation, eight bacteria which included Salmonella typhi, Salmonella paratyphi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella sonniea, Shigella dysentariae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pyogenes and seven fungi which included Candida albicans, Sacharomyces cerevisiae, Rhizopus eligastus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigates, Fusa equisetti and Aspergillus niger. The crude extracts exhibited high microbial growth inhibitory activities with zones of inhibition which ranged between 14 and 34 mm, though there was moderate (19 mm zone of inhibition), or no activity observed for the n-hexane leaf and root extracts. All test organisms were sensitive to the extracts. Standard analytical methods and Gas Chromatography - Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) were used for analysis and quantification of the phytochemicals present in the extracts. Major phytochemical contents of the leaf and root extracts included flavonoids (86% - 52.66%), alkaloids (10.66% - 3.25%) and other phenolic compounds (20.52% - 6.38%). In conclusion, the leaf and root extracts of Acanthus montanus are broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents also rich in flavonoids.
Successive extraction of the aerial plant parts of Calotropis procera using soxhlet extraction yielded the phytochemicals; saponins, alkaloid, tannins, phenol, flavonoids, anthraquinones, and glycosides. Bioassay analysis using standard procedures like Mueller Hinton dilution experiment, demonstrated antibacterial potentials against microbes. E. coli, C. albicans, S. aureus, S. pyogenes, P. aeruginosa, S. typhi, and C. stellatoidea. 27 mm to 41 mm indicated zones of inhibition range. The MBC and MFC for all the microorganisms were at 25 mg/ml except for S. pyogenes which was at 12.5 mg/ml. The MIC for the most sensitive organisms was 12.5 mg/ml with the exception of P. aeruginosa and S. pyogenes which had theirs at 6.25 mg/ml. Proximate analysis used standard AOAC method, and in antioxidant analysis, free radical scavenging method of 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) were employed. The results are as follows, proximate analysis revealed the percentage contents of fat, crude fiber, protein, ash, and carbohydrates to be 2.93, 7.05, 1.68, 56.50, and 18.69, respectively. In the antioxidant studies, free radical scavenging technique employing 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) was used. Samples and standards were determined using the IC50. The active sample was hexane extract, with an IC50 of 0.0878, followed by ethyl acetate (0.8811) and methanol (0.9215).
The quality of palm oil samples collected from three different markets in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State were analyzed and evaluated using standard analytical laboratory procedures. The relative ranges of the physicochemical values obtained were as follows; Moisture Content (MC): 0.56 - 1.89, Iodine value (IV); 51.88 - 55.57 g I2/100g, Peroxide Value (PV): 0.98 - 4.16 mEq02/kg, Saponification Values (SV): 198.46 - 201.54 mgKOH/g, Acid Value (AV): 9.93 - 57.65, and Refractive Index (RI), 1.4576 - 1.4580. The moisture content, iodin value, pH values and acid values were found to exceed the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) permissible limits of moisture content (0.29 mgKOH/g), iodine value (45 - 53 mg I2/100g), pH (5 - 7 mg/L), and acid value (0.7 max mg/L) for edible oils respectively while the refractive index, saponification values, peroxide values falls within the SON allowable limits of refractive index (1.4612-1.4707 mg/L), saponification value (195-205 mgKOH/g) and peroxide value (10 mEq02/kg) respectively . The amounts of trace metals (Cu, Zn, Fe, Pb and Cd) determined in the palm oil using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer ranged from Cu(0.34 - 0.52 mg/l), Zn(1.58 - 2.33 mg/l), Fe(19.18 - 26.74 mg/l), Pb(2.87 - 4.06 mg/l) and Cd(1.58 - 2.24 mg/l). However, the levels of Zn, Fe, Pb and Cd exceeded the WHO/FAO recommended values of (1.50, 1.00, 0.05 and 0.02 mg/L) respectively while only Cu concentration was below the WHO/FAO limits of 2.00 mg/L for trace metals in edible palm oil. Consequently, the results of this study shows that the palm oil consumed from these selected markets does not meet the standard quality specification for edible palm oils and hence can post significant health threat to consumers. Therefore, food regulatory agencies should strengthen their surveillance to promote food and health safety of the populace.
Noni (Morinda citrifolia) fruit has recently been gaining attention in the area of nutraceutical research due to its potential health benefits. The Fruit of the morinda citrifolia plant, also known as Indian mulberry, has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries in Polynesia and Southeast Asia and recently in Africa. The fruit has gained significant attention for its profound therapeutic and nutritional benefits in treating various ailments. This study aims to contribute to the existing literature by analyzing the presence and quantity of selected elements relevant to human health, namely Calcium, Manganese, Potassium, Phosphorus, Sodium, Nickel, Mercury, Lead, Arsenic, Chromium, and Cadmium, in both ripe and unripe Noni fruits. The highly sensitive atomic absorption spectroscopic (AAS) technique was employed for this purpose. The results revealed that ripe Noni fruit contained higher concentrations of Calcium, Potassium, Chromium, and Phosphorus, while unripe Noni fruit had higher levels of Manganese, Sodium, and Nickel.
The phytochemical components of roasted kernel of cashew nut (Anacadium ocidentale), its antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic potentials were investigated via in vitro and in silico. The roasted kernel of cashew nut was extracted in 95 % methanol. Using boron trifloride (10 % in 1-butanol), the extract was derivatized and the derivatized sample was analyzed using a Gas Chromatographic–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) method to establish its chemical constituents. Antioxidant potential was evaluated through 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethyl benzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS•+) radical scavenging assays. The anti-hyperglycemic potential of the crude methanol extract was investigated through α-glucosidase assay. The results of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of phytochemicals such as phenols, glycosides, alkaloids, steroids, carbohydrate, flavonoids and terpenoids. Total numbers of 20 phytochemicals belonging to different classes of natural products were identified by GC-MS analysis. Carbonic acid, dodecyl vinyl ester (45.9 %) was found to be the major compound. Other compounds like N- serylserine, D- fructose, 3-0-methyl, β- Amyrone, β- Amyrin, Lupeol and 9- octadecenoic acid were also identified. The methanol extract of roasted cashew kernel showed highest DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 10 ± 0.001 µg/mL) which is statistically similar to positive controls, vitamin C and rutin (IC50 = 4 ± 0.001 and 1 ± 0.0001 µg/mL) and also exhibited moderate ABTS scavenging activity (IC50 = 14 ± 0.001 µg/mL) which is statistically significant as compared to positive controls, vitamin C (IC50 = 13 ± 0.01 µg/mL) and rutin (IC50 = 16 ± 0.001 µg/mL) respectively. The result of enzyme inhibition assay showed that the extract possesses highest anti-hyperglycemic potential against α-glucosidase with IC50 value (0.00024 ± 0.00002 µg/mL) compared to standard drug acarbose (IC50 = 0.417 ±0.021 µg/mL). The in silico techniques comprising the molecular docking, bioactivity and toxicity studies provides insight into the inhibitory properties, structure-activity-relationship predictions and drug-likeliness activities of the identified compounds. The research reveals the bioactive components present in the roasted kernel of cashew nut that can be utilized for its antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic properties. Hence consumption of roasted cashew kernel could be beneficial for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and prevention of oxidative stress-related degenerative disorders
The GC-MS and phytochemical analysis of ethylacetate leaves extract of Ficus Exasperata Vahl was carried out. GC-MS Analysis revealed 23 constituents in which they were all identified. The major constituents were three(3) compounds with percentage peak areas of 23.20%(1- Nonadecane), 15.88%(1-Pentadecane) and 11.48%(Behenic alcohol), other constituents less than ten percentage peak area are 4.51%(1-Dodecanol, 3.56%(2,5-cyclohexadiene-1,4-dione,2,6-bis(1,1-d), 5.17%( Isopropyl myristate), 4.27%(n-hexadecanoic acid), 6.49%(Behenic alcohol), 4.91%(Oleic acid), 4.25%(propanoic acid, decyl ester), 2.89%(Octacosanol), 3.07%( Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate while other constituents were less than 2%. Spectroscopic quantitative phytochemical analysis of the Ethylacetate Extract of Leaves of Ficus Exasperata was found to contain 16.18mg/g (Alkaloids), 3.78mg/g (Steroids), 85.13mg/g (Flavonoids) and 268.18mg/g (Phenolics).
Poorly treated wastewater can adversely affect the existence of plants and animals. There is a need to look for low-cost filters to address the scarcity of water in rural areas surrounded by industrial wastewater. The present study investigates the use of low-cost filter for purification of industrial wastewater. Filters made from cow bone (CBF) and saw dust (SDF) were used to remove some impurities in wastewater. Wastewater from Ore Industrial Estate, Ondo State, Nigeria, are collected and ran through the filter, the physicochemical parameters were determined using standard method while metal content were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The filter content before and after use were analyzed using Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer. CBF reduces Electrical Conductivity (EC), Chloride and chemical oxygen demand COD of the wastewater appreciably. It removed 74 %, 70 %, 65 %, 68 % and 81 % of Mn, Ni, Cd, Pb, and Zn respectively while SDF removed 8 %, 14 %, 26 %, 17 % and 28 % of the same elements respectively. The C = O stretch was recorded at wavelength of 1646.31cm-1 before filtration and broad at 1640.19 cm-1 after filtration in CBF. Broad OH peak was recorded at 3750.84 cm−1 before filtration and 3674.41 cm−1 after filtration for saw dust filter (SDF). It was concluded that the spectral showed that some materials are removed from the water. The cow bone filter is more efficient than the saw dust filter.
The study was carried out to assess the mineral content, phytochemicals and proximate analysis of the peels and seed of citrus limon. Analysis of the mineral was carried using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and flame photometer. Phytochemicals and proximate analysis determination were done using standard methods. The citrus limon peels and seeds contain reasonable amount of important minerals such as Ca, K Mg, Na, Zn. Fe, Mn and Cu. Poisonous elements like Pb and Cd are present in very small quantity and these may be considered as food supplement especially for animals. The phytochemical analysis showed the presence flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, phenols and steroids in both the citrus limon peels and seeds while terpenoid is present in only the peels. Substantial amount of nutritional components such as carbohydrate, fibre, lipids and proteins are also present. The peels and seeds of lemon may be used materials for drug production and nutritional supplements.
The effect of reaction variables on the uptake of heavy metals from wastewater using modified chitosan and plantain peels carbon based adsorbents was explored in this study. Plantain peels were carbonized, activated with phosphoric acid and the activated carbon was separated into various proportions and impregnated with various percentages of chitosan to make the composite biosorbents. Deproteinization, deminerization, and deacetylation techniques were used to extract chitosan from a snail shell. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) techniques were used to analyze the adsorbents. Effects of process parameters: pH of wastewater, adsorbent dosage, temperature, initial concentration and contact time were determined. In the blending ratios of the biosorbents, 75% oxalic acid modified chitosan-25% activated plantain peel (CHT-APP5) was best blend and the optimum process variables for the removal efficiency were time (60-65mins), adsorbent dosage (2-2.125g/dm3), pH(6-6.5), initial concentration of wastewater(20-85mg/dm3) and temperature (308-325K). The results obtained showed that the maximum adsorption capacities of 90.9090, 55.5556 and 142.8571mg/g for Cr(VI) while 62.500, 83.3333 and 43.4783mg/g Cd(II) were obtained for CHT, APP1 and CHT-APP5 respectively. The results showed that blends have the potential to be used as alternative efficient low-cost biosorbent in the removal of heavy metals from wastewater.
Guizotia scabra (L.F cass. composite) is an oil seed crop found wildly and in some areas cultivated at middle and higher elevations in Nigeria and other African countries. The medicinal importance attached to the plant and the acceptance of the seed in some of our rural areas for preparing different types of delicacies is the driving force of this research. The objectives of this study were to determine the amino acids profile. PTH Amino acid analyser was used to determine amino acids in the sample. Amino acid profile revealed that Glutamic acid in the sample from Plateau was 2.57 g/100g protein while Kaduna state was 3.14g/100g protein; arginine in the sample from Plateau was 1.72 g/100g protein while that from Kaduna was 2.06 g/100g protein. Leucine from Plateau was 1.69 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 2.10 g/100g protein; aspartic acid in the sample from Plateau was 1.55 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 1.80 g/100g protein. The sample from Plateau was 1.00-glycine per100 g protein while that of Kaduna was 1.17 g/100g protein, tyrosine in sample from Plateau was 0.52 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.34 g/100g protein, isoleucine in sample from Plateau was 0.49 g/100 g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.82 g/100g protein. In addition, Alanine in the sample from Plateau was 0.42 g/100 g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.53 g/100g protein as valine in the sample from Plateau was 0.41 g/100 g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.61 g/100g protein. The sample from Plateau has 0.41g proline per 100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.51 g/100g protein. Glycine in the sample from Plateau was 0.38 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.50 g/100g protein, and phenylalanine in the sample from Plateau was 0.35 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.44 g/100g protein. The sample from Plateau has 0.24g cysteine per100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.24 g/100g protein; threonine in the sample from Plateau was 0.19 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.28 g/100g protein. The sample from Plateau has 0.16g serine per g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.22 g/100g protein. The concentration of tryptophan in the sample from Plateau was 0.16 g/100g protein while that of Kaduna was 0.23 g/100g protein and histidine in the sample from Plateau was 0.10 g/100g protein while that from Kaduna was 0.19 g/100g protein. The essential and non-essential amino acids from plateau state are 36.19% and 38.18% respectively while that from Kaduna state are 38.44% and 61.56% respectively. These therefore makes the seed a good source of protein and it is hereby recommended for the fortification of diets that are low in protein for both man and animals.
