Dakota Technologies, a developer of laser-induced fluorescence systems, has introduced the UVOST system, a direct-push delivered sensor for quick screening of light non-aqueous phase liquids (LNAPLs), including petroleum. This system utilizes laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) technique to identify sub-surface contamination immediately.
The UVOST’s probe utilizes a sapphire-windowed sensor and ultra-violet laser light to identify the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that can be detected in petroleum LNAPL. When the probe is directed into the earth, the LNAPL’s fluorescence signal is transmitted via a fiber-optic wire to a detector, and results can be views in real time. In a day, logging can be performed up to 500 feet. The UVOST produces a specified, colorized log that exhibits the existence of PAH LNAPL versus depth for each hole. The high-definition electronic logs can easily be integrated into 3D conceptual site models.
The UVOST operates efficiently above as well as blow the zone of saturation. Waveforms offer product verification/identification and elimination of non-contaminant fluorescence, including peat, mineral and other interferents.
The UVOST describes petroleum, oil, and lubricant (POL) contaminants in the sub-surface. Usual forms of POLs such as diesel fuel, jet fuel, gasoline, and hydraulic fluids can be identified through the fluorescence signal of their PAH constituents. The UVOST is ideal for identifying fuels, crude oils and lubricants. It can be used with direct-push platforms such as AMS PowerProbe, Geoprobe and cone penetrometers.
Other services and products available from Dakota Technologies include the SCOST and the Dart and TarGOST.