DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY

This study investigates the phytochemical composition of Panicum maximum leaves and its brown liquid extract, emphasizing their potential in bioremediation. The leaves were processed by chopping, washing, grinding, filtering, and boiling to extract the brown liquid. Quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed the concentration of bioactive compounds in the leaf extract, including flavonoids (5.34 mg/g), phenolics (12.78 mg/g), saponins (8.23 mg/g), tannins (3.65 mg/g), oxalates (1.45 mg/g), phytates (0.98 mg/g), and alkaloids (6.12 mg/g). The brown liquid showed phenolics (10.45 mg/g) and flavonoids (4.87 mg/g) as dominant compounds. Qualitative screening confirmed the presence of saponins, phenolics, steroids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins in both samples. The abundance of saponins and phenolics, known for their emulsifying and antimicrobial properties, suggests that Panicum maximum and its brown liquid can enhance microbial degradation of hydrocarbons in contaminated soils, positioning it as a valuable resource for eco-friendly bioremediation strategies.

This study evaluated the phytochemical and physicochemical properties of raw wheat grains (Triticum aestivum L.) sourced from Warri, Delta State, to provide region-specific data on its nutritional and functional potential. Although wheat is a globally important staple, localized compositional data for Southern Nigeria are limited; this research addresses that gap by characterizing bioactive constituents, proximate composition, mineral content, and vitamin C level in locally obtained grain. The objectives were to qualitatively screen for major phytochemicals, determine proximate composition (moisture, ash, crude fat, crude fibre, crude protein, carbohydrate), quantify selected minerals (Na, K, Mg, Ca, Fe, Zn), and measure vitamin C content. Standard laboratory protocols were used: reagent-based qualitative assays for phytochemicals (e.g., Wagner’s, Salkowski, ferric chloride, Fehling’s tests), AOAC procedures for proximate analysis, atomic absorption spectrophotometry for mineral quantification following acid digestion, and a titrimetric method for vitamin C. Key findings show the presence of glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, phenolics, terpenoids, flavonoids, and reducing sugars, while tannins and steroids were absent. Proximate values were: moisture 12.78%, ash 2.15%, crude fat 1.92%, crude fibre 2.39%, crude protein 10.81%, and carbohydrate 69.95%. Mineral concentrations (mg/kg) were: K 3650, Mg 1635.5, Ca 272, Fe 67, Zn 28.51, and Na 62.86. Vitamin C was low (mean 0.260 ± 0.01 mg/100 g). These results indicate that the wheat sample is energy-dense, storage-stable (moisture <14%), and rich in bioactive phenolics and flavonoids that confer antioxidant and potential cardioprotective benefits. The absence of tannins suggests reduced antinutritional effects, although mineral bioavailability may still be influenced by other factors (e.g., phytates). Implications include supporting promotion of whole-wheat consumption to maximize intake of fibre, minerals, and phytochemicals, and recommending dietary complementation with vitamin C–rich foods to improve micronutrient utilization. The study provides data for Warri-sourced wheat and underscores the need for quantitative phytochemical assays, bioavailability studies post-processing, and region-wide comparisons or biofortification efforts.

The growing global concern of antimicrobial resistance has fueled the hunt for alternative nanomaterials with therapeutic promise. This work used a green approach to create manganese– magnesium binary oxide (Mn–MgO) nanoparticles. Ficus exasperata leaf extract in alkaline environments (pH 9–10) act as a stabilizing and reducing agent. The nanoparticles' crystalline structure was validated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) examination, with distinctive peaks at 2θ values of 29.4°, 42.9°, and 62.0°, with an average crystallite size of 18 nm determined by the Debye–Scherrer equation. FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) spectrum showed notable peaks at 3339.69 cm⁻¹ (O–H stretching), 1543.11 cm⁻¹ (amide/aromatic C=C), and 1017.50 cm⁻¹ (C–O stretching), suggesting the existence of capping agents made of phytochemicals. Highly aggregated, irregular particles were found using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) that created a porous cluster structure. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) was used to verify the elemental composition; manganese (51.40 wt%), magnesium (35.00 wt%), and oxygen (5.20 wt%) were the primary elements. A primarily mesoporous structure was indicated by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, which showed a high specific surface area of 212.13 m²/g, a total pore volume of 0.106 cm³/g, and average pore diameters of 2.11 nm (BJH), 2.65 nm (DFT), and 3.04 nm (DA). A hybrid micro–mesoporous architecture was confirmed by the classification of the nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm as Type IV with an H3 hysteresis loop. There were no zones of inhibition (0 mm) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger, and Candida albicans when antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method at doses ranging from 7.813 to 62.5 mg/mL. As a result, values for minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were not determined. The Mn–MgO nanoparticles showed no discernible antibacterial activity despite having a large surface area and nanoscale crystallinity. This was probably caused by particle aggregation and surface passivation by phytochemical residues. These results demonstrate how important surface shape and accessibility are in influencing the bioactivity of green-synthesised nanoparticles.

The increasing environmental impact of petroleum-based plastics has intensified the global search for renewable, biodegradable alternatives. Agricultural wastes, particularly cassava and potato peels, offer promising sources of starch for sustainable bioplastic production. This study focused on the comparative development and evaluation of bioplastic films produced from cassava peel starch (CPS) and potato peel starch (PPS), using identical formulation and processing conditions. The aim was to assess how starch source influences the physicochemical, mechanical, structural, and biodegradation characteristics of the resulting films.Starch was extracted from the peels through sedimentation and drying processes, and the yield was determined gravimetrically. Bioplastic films were prepared using a standard casting method. The films were characterized for tensile strength, elongation at break, thickness, water absorption, solubility, and biodegradability. Structural and morphological properties were examined through visual observation and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that cassava peel produced a higher starch yield (18.6%) compared to potato peel (14.9%), confirming its superior extraction efficiency. CPS films exhibited greater tensile strength (4.85 MPa) and Young’s modulus (62 MPa), indicating stronger and more rigid films, while PPS films displayed higher elongation at break (32%), signifying greater flexibility. SEM analysis showed smoother and more homogeneous surfaces in CPS films, whereas PPS films exhibited minor surface irregularities. Both films demonstrated good biodegradability under soil burial, with PPS degrading slightly faster due to its higher hydrophilicity. Overall, the findings establish cassava and potato peel starches as viable raw materials for biodegradable film production, promoting waste valorization and environmental sustainability. The higher yield and superior mechanical integrity of cassava peel starch films suggest greater industrial potential, particularly for ecofriendly packaging applications.

Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, is the most widely used fuel in Nigeria, and Benin City in particular. It plays a vital role in transportation, power generation, and other daily activities. However, the quality of PMS available to consumers has often been questioned due to issues of adulteration, contamination, and poor handling. These problems can affect engine performance, increase fuel consumption, and contribute to environmental pollution. This study focused on the analysis of selected physicochemical properties of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) obtained from four Local Government Areas in Benin City, namely Oredo, Ikpoba- Okha, Egor, and Ovia North East. The aim was to evaluate the quality of PMS distributed within these areas and compare the results against the standard specifications provided by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Parameters such as density, Reid vapour pressure (RVP), octane rating, boiling point, colour, and basic sediment and water (BSW) were determined following ASTM approved methods. The distillation results showed initial Boiling Points (IBP) ranging from 32 - 35°C with three samples slightly below the ASTM specification of 35°C, while Final Boiling Points (179 - 190°C) and recovery (98 - 99%) were within accepted limits. Density values measured at 15°C ranged from 0.741 - 0.746g/cm3 , falling within the ASTM specification range of 0.720 - 0.780g/cm3 , indicating compliance in terms of volatility and combustion efficiency. Colour determination revealed a consistent Plain Yellow appearance across all samples, in agreement with ASTM D1500 standards, reflecting proper refining and the absence of contaminants such as water, rust or heavy hydrocarbons. The BSW values for all the four LGAs were less than 0.05% by volume, which is well within ASTM tolerable limits, confirming negligible water or sediment contamination. The RVP values ranged from 57.22651 - 58.60546kpa, falling within the ASTM range of 45 - 60kpa. Lastly, the RON values ranged from 90-91 which was within the ASTM specification range of 90 - 93. The PMS samples used in this study met the ASTM standards, indicating good quality and suitability for use. The slight deviations observed, such as in the IBP values, point to the need for continuous monitoring.

This study entailed the production of ginger powder and analysis for selected phytochemicals and minerals element constituents. Examined phytochemicals were flavonoid, saponin, glycoside, phenols, alkaloid, tannin, coumarin, quinones and steroids while selected mineral elements analysed were iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium and sodium. The ginger rhizomes for this study were obtained from New Benin Market, Edo State, Nigeria. Standard methods were used for processing the ginger powder. Specifically, the presence or absence of the selected phytochemicals was determined. Findings indicated that for fresh ginger rhizomes, the examined minerals are of the following values: Fe (1.00mg/L), Mg (0.75mg/L), Ca (0.50mg/L), Zn (0.80mg/L), K (19.7mg/L) and Na (2.2mg/L). For the processed ginger powder, the obtained values for the examined mineral constituents are: Fe (1.60mg/L), Mg (1.08mg/L), Ca (0.30mg/L), Zn (1.20mg/L), K (61.1mg/L) and Na (11.4mg/L). Based on findings from this study, ginger powder is a good source of the examined food minerals.

This study assessed the physicochemical quality of diesel oil sold in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, using aggregate samples collected from four local government areas (Egor, Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, and Ovia North-East). The scope covered five key parameters—flash point, distillation characteristics, density, basic sediment and water (BSW), and colour selected for their direct impact on safety, efficiency, and compliance with standards. Diesel samples were collected in sealed one-liter containers, combined into four aggregates, and analyzed using ASTM methods (D93 for flash point, D86 for distillation, D1298 for density, D1796 for BSW, and D1500 for color). Results showed distillation ranges within specification, with initial boiling points of 160–165 °C and final boiling points of 355–356 °C, and final recovered volumes of 97–98 mL, indicating uniform volatility. Density corrected to 15 °C ranged from 0.834 g/mL (Oredo) to 0.847 g/mL (Ovia North-East), aligning with the acceptable 0.82–0.85 g/mL range. BSW content was consistently low at 0.05%, while ASTM colour values ranged from 1.0 to 1.5, all within standards. However, flash points were below 52 °C across all LGAs, failing to meet the ASTM D975 minimum, suggesting contamination or blending with lighter fractions. The findings highlight generally consistent diesel quality but raise safety concerns requiring regulatory oversight.

Aseni clay was obtained from Kogi State, Nigeria. Adsorption studies of Iron (III) ions (Fe3+) was carried out on the clay and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) was employed in analysis of equilibrium concentration of Fe3+ions in aqueous solution. Batch experiment involving varied initial concentration adsorbent dosage, contact time and pH were conducted. quilibrium data showed that as initial Fe3+ concentration increased from 10 to 50 mg·L-¹ the adsorption capacity increased from 0.96 to 3.62 mg·g-¹ while percentage removal decreased from 95.7% to 72.4%, indicating progressive site saturation at higher loadings. Increasing the adsorbent mass from 0.2 to 1.0 g (per 100 mL) improved removal efficiency from 57.67% to 83.23%, demonstrating the positive effect of greater available surface sites. Contact time produced rapid initial uptake, with the amount adsorbed rising from 22.97 mg·L -¹ at 5 min to 26.03 mg·L-¹ at 120 min and percentage removal from 76.57% to 86.77%, indicating approach to equilibrium within the experimental timeframe. pH trials (4–9, initial concentration 100 mg·L-¹) returned very high removal (>99%); however, experimental notes indicated Fe hydrolysis/precipitation during base addition which likely affected measured concentrations and must be considered when interpreting pH-dependent results. Equilibrium modelling revealed strong fits to both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms, with a marginally better fit to the Freundlich model (R² = 0.9815 versus Langmuir R² = 0.979), consistent with adsorption on a heterogeneous surface. Kinetic analysis showed that the pseudo-second-order model provided an excellent description of the adsorption behaviour (linear t/qt versus t relationship; very high R²), suggesting that chemisorption and surface complexation are dominant rate-controlling steps. The findings indicate that Aseni clay is a viable, low-cost adsorbent for Fe +³ removal under the tested laboratory conditions, especially at low to moderate contaminant concentrations, while highlighting the need for care in pH control to avoid precipitation artefacts and for further work on regeneration and real-waste testing.

Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Roselle) is a medicinal plant grown in different countries, including India, Africa, Thailand and Mexico. It is known as zobo in Nigeria, Jamaica flowers, Sorrel and Karkade (in Egypt), and is a member of the Malvaceae family. It can be used as a colorant for foods, flavoring for sauces, jellies, marmalades and soft drinks. The study researched the phytochemical constituents and acute toxicity profile of the ethanol extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa stem in mice. Phytochemical screening was done using standard and qualitative methods to identify the presence of bioactive compounds. The acute toxicity assessment followed OECD guidelines, where mice were given increasing doses of the extract, and mortality was recorded. The phytochemical evaluation showed the presence of Glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, saponins, and phenolic compounds, which
are known for their therapeutic benefits. The acute toxicity study showed no mortality at doses up to 1600 mg/kg, while a slight toxicity effect (16.66% mortality) was observed at 2900 mg/kg. These results suggest that the ethanol extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa stem is relatively safe at moderate doses and contains bioactive compounds that may contribute to its therapeutic potential.

The persistence of atrazine in agricultural runoff and groundwater has raised serious environmental and public health concerns due to its chemical stability and resistance to conventional water treatment methods. This study investigates the synthesis, modification, characterization, and adsorption performance of zinc–aluminum layered double hydroxide (Zn–Al LDH) and its disodium EDTA-modified derivative for the removal of atrazine from aqueous solutions. The Zn–Al LDH was synthesized by the coprecipitation method at a Zn²⁺:Al³⁺ molar ratio of 3:1 under alkaline conditions and aged at 110 °C. Modification with disodium EDTA was achieved via anion exchange, producing a hybrid adsorbent with enhanced surface functionality and interlayer chemistry. Characterization with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis (TGA/DTA) confirmed the formation of a highly crystalline and thermally stable Zn–Al LDH structure. FTIR spectra revealed new carboxylate bands at 1600 cm⁻¹ and 1390 cm⁻¹, indicating successful EDTA incorporation, while XRD patterns showed an expansion of basal spacing from 7.6 Å to 9.8 Å, signifying effective interlayer modification XRF analysis indicated a significant increase in aluminum content and compositional uniformity after modification, confirming Zn–Al integration. Batch adsorption studies were conducted to evaluate the influence of contact time and adsorbent dosage on atrazine uptake. The adsorption process exhibited a pattern, characterized by a rapid initial phase attributed to surface adsorption followed by a slower diffusion-controlled phase. Increased adsorbent dosage enhanced the removal efficiency due to the greater availability of active sites. The EDTA-modified Zn–Al LDH demonstrated superior adsorption capacity compared to the unmodified form, owing to improved surface reactivity and functional group availability. overall, the study establishes that EDTA modification enhances the structural integrity, surface chemistry, and adsorption performance of Zn–Al LDH, positioning it as a promising low-cost and eco-friendly material for the remediation of atrazine-contaminated water.