Abstract

This study investigated the concentration level of thoracic and inhalable sizes particulate matter (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀) present in the air released from a cement company located at Obajana, Kogi State, Nigeria. The collection of ambient air particulates within and outside the cement factory was carried out using the SKC deployable ambient air sampler. The duration considered during sampling was between 8 and 12 hr per day (1 month 2 weeks) and the equipment was operated at 7 and 10 L/min using filter sizes of 2.5 µm and 10 µm. Findings reveal a maximum mean value of PM₁₀ recorded as 364.82±80.19 µg/Nm³ at the cement mill section, followed by 292.77 µg/Nm³ at the raw mill area with, the flow rate of 7 L/min for 12 hr and 10 L/min for 12 hr. The highest value of PM_2.5 recorded was 744.44±2.5 µg/Nm³ at the cement mill and 809.9±68.95 µg/Nm³ at the raw mill section with a flow rate of 7 L/min for 12 hr respectively. It is suggestive that people living within the Obajana community are not safe based on the comparison with standards such as the World Health Organization, and the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv).

Key Words: Air, Environment, Factory, Particulate Matter, Pollution, Obajana