Hydrocarbon detection strips

The site team, as a precautionary measure, have used hydrocarbon detection strips to screen water for presence of residual hydrocarbons.

The light paper turns dark blue on contact with hydrocarbons such as gasoline, heating oil, lubricating oil etc.

To determine if oil is present in water, apply a drop to the test paper or move the paper back and forth in the test solution.

The intensity and size of the blue discolouration are indicative of the quantity of oil in the test solution.

Where water is free of oil the paper strips will neither moisten nor discolour.

To determine the presence of oil in soils, press the paper against the soil to be tested and rinse with clean water.

Indication on presence of oil is as described above.

Limits of sensitivity largely depend upon the solubility of the hydrocarbons.

To find out more, click the link below.