TRACER FOR EARLY DETECTION OF UNDERGROUND FUEL SPILLS

Leaking underground fuel storage tanks must be rapidly detected to minimize cleanup costs. TDA research, (TDA) has identified a class of tracer compounds that allow the rapid detection of leaks. The tracer extracts from spilled fuel into the groundwater, moves quickly through the soil, and is easily detected before leakage of fuel becomes a serious problem. The tracers are save, compatible with existing fuel systems, and have extremely low limits of detection: we estimate that a 10,000 gallon tank will require as little as one gram of the tracer. The detection method allows for a simple, solid-state, field-portable instruments, which speeds analysis and lowers the cost of the system. TDA has identified a family of similar but distinguishable tracers, so that a leak can be traced to a particular tank. In Phase I, TDA will test candidate tracer materials to establish their limit of detection, measure their fuel/water partition coefficient, demonstrate their rapid transport through soil, and define the overall system performance and projected cost. In Phase II we will carry out tests to assure fuel system compatibility, design, construct, and test the field-portable tracer detection system, and begin field tests.