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A case study comparing the use of laser induced fluorescence with cone penetrometer testing to more conventional screening methods

Conference ·
OSTI ID:230959
 [1];  [2]
  1. Unisys Corp., Paoli, PA (United States)
  2. Unisys Corp., Eagan, MN (United States)

Site assessments utilizing in-situ techniques to characterize subsurface stratigraphy and contaminant distribution are becoming more accepted and commonly used. Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) spectroscopy with Cone Penetrometer Test (CPT) is a new technology that provides real-time data on stratigraphy and petroleum hydrocarbons (PHCs) in the subsurface environment. Over the last two years, LIF technological advances have led to field equipment with improved durability, reduced bulk and weight, and the ability to integrate LIF systems with CPT equipment. The Rapid Optical Screening Tool (a Unisys registered trademark hereafter referred to as ROST) presents the development of an in-situ data collection system which couples state-of-the-art LIF technology with CPT. ROST/CPT technology has recently been utilized in a variety of field and soil conditions. These advances, along with the need for rapid in-situ information on the horizontal and vertical distribution of petroleum hydrocarbons (PHCs) have resulted in equipment that is now available for commercial applications. This paper presents a comparison of ROST/CPT to more conventional characterization methods at a manufacturing site in Nebraska. Various PHCs were stored in underground and above ground storage tanks across the site. One of these PHC spill areas consisting of a mixture of diesel fuel oil and kerosene was selected for a comparative study between various site assessment methods.

OSTI ID:
230959
Report Number(s):
CONF-950209--
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English