Oil spill detection using a handheld fluorometer: Chemistry Practicum with CanmetENERGY

Abstract

A handheld fluorometer is an analytical device that uses a single-wavelength light source that excites a sample, which causes the sample to release a fluorescent signal with a certain wavelength. This type of equipment can be used in the field and has been applied to environmental research. It is cost-effective compared to other types of fluorometers. Specifically for this research, the fluorometer was used as part of the oil spill assessment by quantifying the oil concentration in water via the fluorescence of the aromatic compounds in the oil. This research project is part of my internship at CanmetENERGY as a laboratory assistant from January to April 2023. CanmetENERGY performs research and development focused on reducing the environmental impacts of natural resource extraction. The main objective for my internship was to optimize the sample preparation method for fluorescence measurements of pure PAH standard, VLSFO, and diesel.  I will present my internship work involving testing factors such as shaking time, solvent: seawater ratio, and the type of solvent on the extraction efficiency of dissolved oil from water. We will determine the best extraction method based on our calculated percent recovery (85-115%(100+/-15%)). During my time at the internship, I refined my analytical skills by preparing standard solutions and calibrating the fluorometer by finding the concentration range with linear regression. I will also highlight, the professional skills learned in my internship.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Samuel Mugo