Contribution to the geochemistry of trace elements in the sediments of the Noun River and tributaries, western Cameroon.

This study reports on the distribution of trace elements in the sediments of the Noun River valley. Two groups of trace elements have emerged based on their distribution and geochemical behaviour. The first group shows lower values whereas the second group aligns higher values. Elements like Al and Sr in one side and Zn, Zr in the other present concentrations statistically different from those of the rocks compared to other elements in trace analyzed (Cr, Ni, Ba, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, V, As and Pb). The trace elements Al, Sr, Zr, Zn and Pb in the sediments of the Noun River show concentrations rather lower than those of the world. The average concentrations in elements C (3.72%), N (0.27%), S (0.05%) and of the ratios C/N (13.77) and N/S (5.29) reflect those resulting from the decomposition of the organic matter which derives from soils with very small concentrations in S. The Noun valley sediments are mostly of primary (quartz, microcline, plagioclase, orthoclase, ilmenite, anatase) and newly formed or secondary (kaolinite, gibbsite, hematite, goethite) minerals. This mineralogy and the overall low concentration of the studied trace elements, with Al, Fe, Ti and Mn as most abundant elements, is consistent with the local geology made up of the basic rocks (basalts, volcanic ash) and of the acid rocks (granites, gneiss). Overall the trace elements concentration and distribution suggest their geogene origin. Yet, this study is a first contribution of its kind towards the development of a baseline geochemical database essential for a sustainable and healthier Noun valley ecosystem.