FACULTY OF PHYSICAL SCIENCES

This study examines the sedimentological and biostratigraphical characteristics of Well X-1 in the Greater Ughelli Depobelt of the Niger Delta Basin, Southern Nigeria, in order to determine the age, depositional environment, and hydrocarbon potential of the penetrated strata. Seventy two ditch cutting samples collected between 4500 ft and 11460 ft were analyzed using reflected light microscopy to document lithology, grain size, sorting, and other sedimentological attributes. Four main lithofacies were identified. These are sandstone, shale, sandy shale, and shaly sand. Forty nine lithozones were delineated and used to interpret the vertical depositional succession. The sandstone and sandy shale units form a continuous reservoir interval between 5340 ft and 7260 ft, while the thick shale units below 7860 ft represent the probable source rock. A shale dominated interval above 4740 ft was interpreted as the seal or cap rock. Biostratigraphical interpretation using foraminiferal biofacies, F zone data, P zone data, and the Niger Delta chronostratigraphic chart revealed five maximum flooding surfaces at 6265 ft, 6688 ft, 7247 ft, 7771 ft, and 10280 ft, together with eight sequence boundaries occurring between 5899 ft and 10602 ft. These surfaces correspond to ages ranging from the Aquitanian to the Chattian. Foraminiferal abundance patterns show a dominance of calcareous benthonic species, which indicates deposition in a shelf environment. The alignment of the Bolivina 27 shale marker at 28.1 Ma with the basal shale supports its interpretation as the source rock interval. The combination of sedimentological and biostratigraphical evidence confirms the presence of the essential elements of a petroleum system, with favourable timing for hydrocarbon generation, migration, and entrapment

Hydrocarbon Reservoir Characterization and Evaluation of TOKS Field, Greater Ughelli Depobelt, Niger Delta Basin, Southern Nigeria was carried out with the aim to achieve optimal evaluation and characterization of the reservoirs in wells of TOKS field. The study utilizes an integration of well logs, seismic data, and core data to offer unique insights into the intricate
complexities of subsurface formations.

The materials (data) used for this study includes one (1) SegY 3D seismic, seven (7) well logs and four (4) checkshot from TOK’s well in the TOK’s Field, these were use to generate logs that consist of lithology log (gamma ray log), resistivity log and porosity logs (density, neutron, sonic). The data also included base map and information
used on the sandstone tops and base. The data collected were analyzed using petrophysical and well correlation, ischore thickness map, seismic horizon interpretation, stratigraphic modelling, structural modelling, upscalling and petrophysical method to evaluate and characterize the reservoirs.

The result shows that TOKS 1000 and TOKS 3000 are the reservoir intervals. The
Petrophysical analysis of TOK 1000 for the TOKS wells 14, 15,16,17,18, 19 and 51 shows porosity value of 0.3054, 0.3103, 0.3042, 0.3252, 0.3055, 0.3108, 0.3857, water saturation values of the wells as 0.2750, 0.2645, 0.2788, 0.2521, 0.2684, 0.2638 and 0.2972, the shale volume results shows 0.05, 0.05, 0.04, 0.04, 0.05, 0.07 and the Net to gross (NTG) ratio result shows 0.95, 0.95, 0.95, 0.96, 0.96, 0.95, 0.93. The Petrophysical analysis of TOK 3000 for the TOKS wells 14, 15,16,17,18 and 19 shows porosity value of 0.3491, 0.3121, 0.3135, 0.2993, 0.3353, 0.2881 and 0.3857, water saturation values of the wells as 0.2349, 0.2627, 0.2615, 0.2741,
0.2446, 0.2846 and 0.2972, the shale volume results shows 0.08, 0.05, 0.05, 0.04, 0.08, 0.05 and 0.07 and the Net to gross (NTG) ratio result shows 0.92, 0.95, 0.95, 0.96, 0.92, 0.95 and 0.93. The seismic interpretation (Horizon and seed) of reservoir tops of TOKS 1000 and TOKS 3000 correspond to trough events. Facies models of both TOKS 1000 and TOKS 3000 aid in the determination of Fine sand, Coarse Sand and Shale lithofacies. The seismic interpretation of reservoir tops of TOKS 1000 and TOKS 3000 reveal trough events. Four (4) zones and five (5) layers were delineated in the TOKS wells. Isochore map shows the thickness of TOKS 3000 reservoir zone. The Subsurface map helps us to identify areas with our reservoir. This structural model helps in understanding the reservoir's structural features. The Net To Gross (NTG) value at the reservoir zones ranges from 0.78 to 0.91 for TOKS 1000 and ranges from 0.76 to 0.92 for TOKS 3000. The porosity value at the reservoir zones ranges from 0.28 to 0.39 for TOKS 1000 and ranges from 0.25 t0 0.36 for TOKS 3000. The water saturation values at the reservoir zones ranges from 0.18 to 0.5 and ranges from 0.25 to 0.39. The prospective reservoirs were coarse grained. The overall results shows From the reservoir characterization and evaluation of TOKS Field, Greater Ughelli Depobelt, Niger Delta Basin, Nigeria shows that the evaluated reservoirs have favourable petrophysical characteristics that will lead to excellent production of hydrocarbon from their porespores hence regarded as prospective wells.

This study examines the optimal battery specifications for a 5kVA pure sine wave inverter system, focusing on the selection of suitable batteries to ensure efficient, reliable, and cost-effective performance. The research evaluates key factors such as battery capacity, voltage, cycle life, depth of discharge (DoD), and energy efficiency. Given the growing demand for backup power in residential and commercial settings, selecting the right battery is crucial for maximizing operational efficiency and system longevity. Simulation models were used to assess the performance of lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries under varying operational conditions. The findings revealed that lithium-ion batteries outperformed lead-acid batteries in key areas, including round-trip efficiency (95% vs. 75%), cycle life (3,500–5,000 cycles vs. 500–1,000 cycles), and DoD (80% vs. 50%). These advantages made lithium-ion batteries the most suitable choice for a 5kVA inverter system, offering superior performance and energy utilization. In conclusion, lithium-ion batteries, despite their higher initial cost, provide a more efficient and sustainable solution for 5kVA pure sine wave inverter systems. Their longer lifespan, higher efficiency, and better energy storage make them the preferred option for optimizing system performance and reducing long-term operational costs.

The absence of a structured and secure channel for student expression at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has left many important issues overlooked or unheard. Existing options, such as social media platforms, are often unsafe, unorganized, and unable to provide anonymity or encourage honest expression without fear of judgment or ridicule. This project (Design and Implementation of UNIBEN Students Engagement/Expression Platform) seeks to address these challenges by creating a dedicated, moderated, and student-centered platform that empowers the UNIBEN community to share experiences and highlight everyday student concerns. The platform will be designed and developed using Figma, WordPress, and other essential web tools to ensure a responsive, user-friendly, and scalable interface. Core features will include anonymous story submissions, categorized topics such as academics, housing, finance, and safety, as well as interaction options like comments and feedback under strict moderation. Security and visibility will remain top priorities through features such as anti-bot protection, content approval workflows, and privacy safeguards that encourage open participation. By providing a safe and structured space for expression, the project not only amplifies underrepresented student voices but also sets the foundation for future growth, including AI-driven content moderation, story highlights, and also more development for broader accessibility.

This study explores how Bisphenol A (BPA) and different phthalates leach from unused plastic bottles when kept at a steady temperature of 40 °C in deionized water. The use of deionized water which is free from salts, ions, and organic matter, provided a clean, neutral environment that allowed a clear view of how these chemicals naturally migrate from plastics into water. Over a 96-hour period, BPA concentrations were measured using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS), with recorded values of 2.92, 2.40, 2.42, 2.74, and 2.96 µg/L at 0, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours, respectively. The initially high BPA value was likely due to surface residues being quickly released into the water, while the slight drops at 24 and 48 hours suggest a brief stabilization or re-adsorption on the bottle surface. The subsequent rise at 72 and 96 hours indicates that BPA continued to diffuse from inside the plastic into the surrounding water which is a process encouraged by the constant heat. Phthalates such as diethyl phthalate (DEP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) showed similar patterns, with their concentrations gradually increasing over time, confirming that additive migration is a slow but continuous process. Although the highest BPA concentration measured (2.96 µg/L) is far below the U.S. FDA’s safety threshold of 5mg/kg body weight per day, it is well above the extremely strict European Food Safety Authority (EFSA, 2023) limit of 0.2 ng/kg body weight per day. This finding suggests that even new, unused plastics can release trace amounts of potentially harmful chemicals when exposed to warm or storage conditions for extended periods. Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of monitoring plastic safety and highlights how everyday temperature exposure can influence the release of chemical additives into water, with potential implications for both health and the environment

The threat that groundwater is being polluted is a major environmental and health threat to society, especially around urban centres where waste disposal is not well controlled. The present research used the two-dimensional Electrical Resistivity Tomography (2D ERT) to determine potential pollution of the ground water at the Health Centre, University of Benin, Nigeria. The study was also meant to map the changes in resistivity of the subsurface and locate possible contamination areas that could be related to infiltration of the leachate. On-site measurements were obtained in two traverses in the Wenner Schlumberger array format and put into the RES2DINV software to provide resistivity sections. The resultant resistivity models presented values of between 217 Ωm and above 15,000 Ωm in the area of study. Such values outweigh the 100 Om mark normally considered as the contamination level of the leachates in the contaminated area, a fact that suggests that the groundwater was not polluted in the depth to which the test was carried out. Empirical resistivity of upper layers (07 m) were high (700 – 2700 Ωm), which was viewed as lateritic or compact sandy soils whereas generic layers (718 m) were moderate (700 – 1700 Ωm) and were regarded as sandy-clayey formations that held natural moisture. The resistivity of deeper zones (>18 m) was extremely high (>4000 Ωm) and was characterized by weathered or solidified lateritic materials and bedrock. According to the resistivity distribution, the subsurface is well-drained, dry and contains no leachate or chemical deposits. It can therefore be concluded that there is no contamination of ground water in the area under the Health Centre. The findings demonstrate the usability of 2D ERT as a simple and efficient instrument of early detection of ground water contamination and as a tool of implementing sustainable ground water protection control measures in the environmentally sensitive locations like learning and healthcare facilities.

This study examined the mineral composition and phytochemical profile of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit pods. The fruit pod was purchased from Uselu market, dried and extracted by maceration method using aqueous, methanol and hexane solvents. The elemental composition was analyzed with a portion of the powdered sample using g X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) while phytochemical screening of the three extracts was done via standard methods. Mineral analysis revealed potassium (28.317%) as the most abundant element, followed by calcium (12.962%), magnesium (7.656%), and aluminum (6.413%). Moderate amounts of
Sulphur (1.652%) and chlorine (2.412%) were also detected, while iron was present at a relatively low concentration (1.502%). The dominance of potassium and calcium highlights the fruit’s nutritional potential for maintaining electrolyte balance, bone development, and muscle function. Magnesium and aluminum further contribute to enzymatic activities and possible medicinal value, though the low iron content indicates limited benefit for hemoglobin synthesis and oxygen transport. Phytochemical screening showed that alkaloids, eugenol, and reducing sugars were present across all extracts. Glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, phenolics, and terpenoids were prominent in methanol and aqueous extracts, while hexane extracts yielded fewer polar compounds. Steroids were absent in all extracts. These results confirm that solvent polarity strongly influences phytochemical extraction, with polar solvents yielding a broader spectrum of bioactive constituents

Ocimum gratissimum is a widely recognized medicinal plant known for its diverse therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects. Its rich content of bioactive compounds has made it a staple in traditional medicine for managing infections, digestive disorders, and general wellness. This study investigates the nutritional composition, amino acid profile, antioxidant potential, enzyme inhibitory activity, and phytochemical constituents of O. gratissimum stem extract, providing scientific insight into its medicinal relevance. The qualitative Proximate analysis showed high carbohydrate (53.69%), crude fiber (12.50%), and crude protein (12.26%) content with notable levels of moisture (7.40%), ash (6.27%) and crude fat content (4.92%). Amino acid profiling revealed abundant essential and non-essential amino acids, notably Isoleucine (29.42 mg/ml) and Alanine (22.55 mg/ml). In vitro Total Antioxidant Capacity assay demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, with ascorbic acid values increasing from 0.31 to 0.52 mg/ml as the concentration rose from 0.1 to 0.3 mg/ml, while the In vitro Nitric Oxide Scavenging Assay showed a progressive increase in the %NO Scavenging from 42.48% to 55.03% for concentrations of 0.1 to 0.3 mg/ml, confirming significant radical scavenging ability. The extract also showed strong alpha amylase (60.43%) and alpha glucosidase (76.91%) inhibition. GCMS identified 35 bioactive compounds, with Erucic acid (with a peak area of 4.59%), D-carvone (5.78%), Oleic Acid (8.90%), Cyclopropane (17.01%) and 9 borabicyclo compounds (28.30%), having the most prominent peak areas. These results suggest the extracts potential in nutritional and therapeutic applications.

This research focused on the adsorption of manganese ions (Mn²⁺) from MnSO₄ salt solution using kaolinite clay obtained from Aseni, Kogi State, Nigeria. This study aimed to evaluate the adsorption efficiency of kaolinite clay and to investigate the influence of process parameters, including contact time, pH, adsorbent dosage, and initial manganese concentration, on the removal efficiency. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted under controlled conditions, and residual manganese concentrations were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The results revealed that adsorption efficiency increased with pH, contact time, and adsorbent dosage but decreased slightly with higher initial concentrations. Maximum removal was recorded at 78% at an initial concentration of 10Mn/l, 55.00% (1.0 g dosage), 22.0g (120 minutes), and 63.13% (pH 9). Equilibrium data fitted better to the Freundlich isotherm model, indicating multilayer adsorption on a heterogeneous surface, while the pseudo-second-order kinetic model provided the best correlation, suggesting a chemisorption-controlled mechanism.

The study concludes that kaolinite clay is an effective, locally available, and eco-friendly adsorbent for manganese removal from aqueous solutions, highlighting its potential for use in wastewater treatment and environmental remediation.

The rapid growth of digital technology and e-commerce has transformed the way goods and services are exchanged, creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers. Despite these advancements, many small businesses within the University of Benin (UNIBEN) community still rely on traditional advertising methods such as word-of-mouth referrals and printed flyers, which limit their visibility and growth potential. The absence of a centralized platform also makes it difficult for students, staff, and faculty to easily discover and access available services within the university environment.

This project proposes the development of an online marketplace specifically designed for the University of Benin community. The platform aims to provide a digital space where small business owners can showcase their products and services, while enabling users to conveniently search, compare, and engage with service providers. The proposed system integrates features such as business listings, service categorization, customer reviews and ratings, communication tools, and performance analytics to improve user experience and business management.

The online marketplace is expected to enhance the visibility of campus-based businesses, increase customer engagement, and promote economic activities within the university community. Furthermore, it will provide a structured and accessible platform that connects buyers and sellers efficiently, fostering convenience, transparency, and trust. The study concludes that implementing a dedicated online marketplace for UNIBEN can significantly contribute to the digital transformation of campus commerce and support the growth and sustainability of small businesses within the institution.