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Application of trace analytical techniques to a study of hydrocarbon composition upon dispersion of petroleum in a flowing seawater system

Journal Article · · Adv. Chem. Ser.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5730418
A combination of analytical techniques has been used to determine the concentrations of hydrocarbons in very dilute dispersions of crude oil in flowing seawater. The volatile aromatic components were determined directly from seawater samples using a helium equilibration gas chromatographic technique. Less volatile hydrocarbons were sampled by pumping the seawater through columns of macroreticular resin using positive displacement pumps and analyzed by capillary gas chromatography. The results show that the lower-molecular-weight aromatic hydrocarbons are present in the seawater dispersions in much higher concentrations than would be predicted from their concentration in crude oil. These studies demonstrate that detailed compositional analysis of systems used for oil toxicity studies is a prerequisite for interpretation of observed biological effects.
Research Organization:
Battelle Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA
DOE Contract Number:
EY-76-C-06-1830
OSTI ID:
5730418
Journal Information:
Adv. Chem. Ser.; (United States), Journal Name: Adv. Chem. Ser.; (United States) Vol. 185; ISSN ADCSA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English