The role of gas flaring in the rapid corrosion of zinc roofs in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

This study examined the role of gas flaring in the rapid corrosion of zinc roofs in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. Four experimental sites were set up where samples of galvanized iron sheet (popularly called “zinc roofs”) were exposed to the atmosphere. The corrosion behaviour of galvanized iron sheet through weight loss determination under different environmental conditions was monitored. A uniform angle of inclination of 22° (which represents the mean angle of inclination of house roofs in the study area) was chosen. The results showed that corrosion was more severe (average readings of 25.89, 34.30, and 21.27 mg) in the three experimental sites that were located near pollution sources such as gas flare station or sea aerosols, than at the controlled site (2.36 mg) that was located far away from pollution sources. It is recommended that government’s policy of zero gas flaring for oil companies operating in the Niger Delta by 2010 be pursued with vigour, so as to realize the deadline and subsequently reduce the economic burden currently suffered by the inhabitants of the Niger Delta through frequent replacement of house roofs and incessant illnesses. In addition, individuals and companies operating in the region should avoid bush burning, reduce the rate of fossil fuel consumption by conserving energy, and install catalytic converters in cars and industrial chimneys, so as to reduce emissions.