Ultra-Violet Optical Screening Tool (UVOST)

The Ultra-Violet Optical Screening Tool (UVOST) is a direct-push-delivered sensor that allows rapid screening of most petroleum-based light nonaqueous phase liquids (LNAPLs), such as fuels, lubricants, and crude oils, without interference from dissolved-phase hydrocarbons. Using laser-induced ?uorescence (LIF) technology, it immediately detects subsurface contamination without having to draw samples or wait for lab results. As the probe is driven into the ground, the LNAPL’s ?uorescence signal is sent through a ?ber-optic cable to a detector and logged by a laptop computer. Results can be seen in real time and onsite personnel can begin determining the next probing location. For each hole, UVOST generates a detailed, colorized log that shows the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) versus depth. The high-resolution electronic logs can be easily incorporated into 3-D conceptual site models, which is useful in estimating costs and creating a plan for contaminant removal. The system is designed for use with all direct-push platforms, such as Geoprobe, AMS PowerProbe, and cone penetrometers.