Physico-Chemical Characteristics of Wastewater at A Polyethylene Bag Manufacturing Company in Bekwai Municipality, Ghana

  • Enoch Nii Klu Nortey Kumasi Technical University
  • David Azanu Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
  • Sampson Kofi Kyei  Kumasi Technical University
  • Roland Songotu Kabange Kumasi Technical University
Keywords: Effluent, Polyethylene bag, Heavy metals, Physico-chemical

Abstract

This study investigated heavy metals and other physico-chemical parameters in effluents at a plastic manufacturing company in Bekwai municipality. Wastewater was sampled at different points of wastewater production and storage to help understand how unit operations affected effluent quality. Sampling and determination of physico-chemical parameters (pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, alkalinity) were carried out as described by the American Public Health Association (APHA). Heavy metals (Manganese (Mn), Mercury (Hg), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn)) were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) following standard protocol. The pH of the samples ranged from 7.59 – 8.1. The mean concentrations ranged from 0.001 to 0.069 mg/L, 0.001 – 0.037 mg/L and 0.013 – 0.017 mg/L for Pb, As and Cr respectively. Except for Pb and As, all physicochemical parameters and the remaining metals analysed values were below the permissible range for effluent discharge by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Ghana. A one-way analysis of the variance of all the heavy metals in the water samples analysed revealed statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) The estimated daily intake of Mn, Cu, Cr, Cd, Pb and Zn contained in the water samples analysed did not exceeded their recommended daily intake for children, however, As exceeded their acceptable daily intake of 0.0003 mg/kg/day for children. All metals were below their acceptable daily limit for adults. This result indicates the presence of toxic metals in effluent from polyethylene bag manufacturing companies which is of concern since these metals tend to bioaccumulate and affect aquatic life.

Author Biographies

Enoch Nii Klu Nortey, Kumasi Technical University

Enoch Nii Klu Nortey is a Laboratory Analyst at SGS Ghana Limited with over a decade of experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Laboratory Technology from the University of Cape Coast and an MTech in Water and Environmental Engineering from Kumasi Technical University. His expertise encompasses Environmental and Analytical Chemistry, including Air and Water Quality Analysis. He has contributed to the scientific community with two publications. 

 

David Azanu, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

Dr. David Azanu a seasoned environmental-analytical chemist, is a Lecturer at KNUST. He holds a PhD and MSc in Analytical Chemistry from KNUST and specializes in environmental toxicology, emerging pollutants, and advanced water treatment technologies. He has secured significant grants and has a strong publication record in reputable journals. Dr. Azanu actively engages in academic mentorship and contributes significantly to the scientific community as an external examiner and journal reviewer.

Sampson Kofi Kyei , Kumasi Technical University

Dr. Sampson Kofi Kyei Associate Professor and Head of Department at Kumasi Technical University's Centre for Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency, holds a PhD in Applied/Industrial Chemistry. His expertise lies in biobased coatings, oilfield chemicals, and antifouling strategies. Dr. Kyei has authored 26 publications and brings extensive experience from both industry and academia. 

Roland Songotu Kabange, Kumasi Technical University

Professor Roland Songotu Kabange a  scholar with a PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of Leeds, specializes in water and sanitation. He serves as the Dean of the Graduate School at Kumasi Technical University, where he has significantly impacted engineering education and research. A prolific researcher, he has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications and actively contributes to the field of environmental engineering. 

Published
2025-01-30
How to Cite
Nii Klu Nortey, E., Azanu, D., Kyei , S. K., & Songotu Kabange, R. (2025). Physico-Chemical Characteristics of Wastewater at A Polyethylene Bag Manufacturing Company in Bekwai Municipality, Ghana. Journal of Science and Technology, 1(2), 62- 85. https://doi.org/10.4314/just.v1i2.1932