Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV)

AUVs for Oil Spill Response Operations

Early investigation is critical to the assessment, and subsequent management of oil spill events; AUV’s can be mobilised rapidly and can be operational soon after spill events have been identified, communicating near real-time information to a secure web-portal.

The use of autonomous gliders and mini AUVs enhances the ability of the responders to collect greater volumes of data over time than is generally possible with the use of profiling or towed instruments from manned vessels.

Additionally, gliders and AUV’s can be deployed from ships of opportunity with relatively little training compared to traditional oceanographic sampling methods.

Ultraviolet Fluorosensors can detect the presence of hydrocarbons in the water column, which supports us in assessing the effectiveness of dispersant operations.

• Certain compounds, such as aromatic hydrocarbons, present in petroleum oils absorb ultraviolet laser light and become electronically excited.
• This excitation is quickly removed by the process of fluorescence emission, primarily in the visible region of the spectrum. By careful choice of the excitation laser wavelength and range-gated detection at selected emission wavelengths, petroleum oils can be detected and classified into three broad categories: light refined, crude or heavy refined.

OSRL have partnered with Blue Ocean Monitoring Limited. This agreement provides OSRL access to Blue Oceans Riptide and Slocum Glider for preparedness and response operations. The AUV capability is provided on a best endeavors basis, AUV’s can be mobilised by contacting the OSRL Duty Manager.