Analyzing the Effect of Physicochemical Processes of Calabar River on Coastal Hydraulic Structures: A Case Study of Calabar River

The research study analyzes the effect of physicochemical processes of Calabar River on coastal hydraulic structures. The Calabar River holds ecological and economic importance, providing essential resources for irrigation, transportation, and fishing in Nigeria’s. However, the discharge of industrial effluents, agricultural activities, domestic sewage and other human activities has resulted in significant alterations in the river’s physicochemical properties, including changes in pH, temperature, salinity and concentration of chemical compounds. These changes have adverse effects on coastal hydraulic structures such as jetties, ports, sheet piles for coastal protection and offshore platforms, primarily due to accelerated corrosion rates induced by aggressive agents present in the river. The research employs a multi-disciplinary approach, combining materials science, structural engineering, and environmental analysis to assess the impact of Calabar River on hydraulic infrastructure. For comprehensive analysis, this study employed both field and laboratory methods. Field data collection involved measuring water quality parameters like pH, temperature, salinity, chloride, sulfate, and dissolved oxygen concentrations. Objectives of study included identifying potential impact of physicochemical processes on these structures, determining factors affecting their performance, proposing appropriate solutions for improvement, providing recommendations. It was observed that the presence of salt water on concrete reduces the compressive and flexural strength of concrete when compared to natural water. These findings will be invaluable for policymakers, engineers, and stakeholders involved in the management of coastal infrastructure in the region. It is recommended that further studies should be carried out using different blend proportions and concreting materials for hydraulic structures.