Laser fluorosensor for oil spot detection

Abstract

Oil and water fluorescence properties were studied under their excitation by 266 and 355 nm light, corresponding to the fourth and third harmonics of a Nd:YAG laser. The oil spill detection fluorosensor designed for onshore or shipboard installation is described and its test results are presented. The fluorosensor enables detection of several μm thick films of different oils and its products from more than 50 m distance and 3 m height above water surface in the daytime.