Abstract:

The fluorescence EEM technique, PARAFAC modeling, and hydrocarbon composition were used to characterize oil components and to examine the chemical evolution and degradation pathways of Macondo crude oil under controlled laboratory conditions. Three major fluorescent oil components were identified, with Ex/Em maxima at 226/328, 262/315, and 244/366 nm, respectively. An average degradation half-life of ~20 d was determined for the oil components based on fluorescence EEM and hydrocarbon composition measurements, showing a dynamic chemical evolution and transformation of the oil during degradation. Dispersants appeared to change the chemical characteristics of oil, to shift the fluorescence EEM spectra, and to enhance the degradation of low-molecular-weight hydrocarbons. Photochemical degradation played a dominant role in the transformation of oil components, likely an effective degradation pathway of oil in the water column. Results from laboratory experiments should facilitate the interpretation of field-data and provide insights for understanding the fate and transport of oil components.

Suggested Citation:

Liu, Zhanfei. 2013. Laboratory oil degradation characterized by fluorescence EEMs and hydrocarbon composition. Distributed by: GRIIDC, Harte Research Institute, Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. doi:10.7266/N7125QM2

Publications:

Zhou, Z., Liu, Z., & Guo, L. (2013). Chemical evolution of Macondo crude oil during laboratory degradation as characterized by fluorescence EEMs and hydrocarbon composition. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 66(1-2), 164–175. doi:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2012.09.028

Purpose:

To examine the chemical evolution and degradation pathways of Macondo crude oil under controlled laboratory conditions

Data Parameters and Units:

n-alkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Methods:

GC-FID and GC-MS

Individual Files: