Investigation of Elemental Constituents of Erosion-Prone Soils of Enugu State and Their Consequent Chemical Stabilization

Soil erosion is one of the most serious environmental problems facing the South-Eastern part of Nigeria, including Enugu State. This research, therefore, investigates the elemental constituents of erosion-prone soils to address the erosion problem through chemical stabilization at erosion sites in Enugu State. The chemical/elemental constituents of soil samples from three non-erosion-prone areas (NEPA) used as control, and three erosion-prone areas (EPA) were determined. The elemental components of the soil were determined using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The particle size distribution and the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of EPA were determined using standard laboratory methods and a Pocket penetrometer, respectively. Solutions of CaCl2, CaCO3, AlCl3, Ca(OH)2, and Ca(NO3)2 were prepared and applied to each of the two erodible soil samples for chemical stabilization. Stabilization was confirmed by using the penetrometer. Results of the chemical analysis showed that cation concentrations (ppm) were relatively higher in non-erosion-prone soils than in erosive soils. Results of the particle distribution analysis showed that each soil sample contained a higher percentage of sand, followed by clay and then silt. The results of the chemical stabilization showed that, of the five chemicals used, Ca(NO3)2, AlCl3, and CaCl2 provided the best stabilization, while CaCO3 and Ca(OH)2 yielded poor stabilization. The erosion problem in Okunino and Obinagu can be mitigated by applying chemical stabilizing agents in appropriate proportions.