Capabilities and limitations of a cone-penetrometer-deployed fiber optic laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) petroleum oil and lubricant (POL) sensor

Data from a new field screening technique using a fiber optic laser induced fluorescence (LIF) petroleum, oil, and lubricant (POL) chemical sensor deployed from a truck mounted cone penetrometer is presented. The system provides real-time, in situ measurement of petroleum hydrocarbon contamination and soil type to a maximum depth of 150 feet with a vertical spacing of two inches. Each depth measurement records the fluorescent spectrum from 350 to 720 nm. Spectral signatures can be used to track a single or multiple contaminants across a site. Real-time measurement permits on site interpretation and `plume chasing.' Field data from SCAPS (Navy) field operations is presented to show how the system can be used for rapid three-dimensional delineation of a POL contaminant plume.