Assessment of phosphorescence spectroscopy for crude oil identification

The application of phosphorescence techniques to crude oil identification has been studied. Conventional phosphorescence spectra are insufficiently structured to offer adequate discrimination between the crude oil samples investigated. Synchronous excitation and total contour spectra of a series of crude oils have been compiled. The latter techniques show promise as a method for differentiation between unweathered crude oils. Spectral discrimination is enhanced by the use of an external “heavy atom” quencher.Lifetime measurements of phosphorescence decay offer limited scope, with respect to crude oil characterisation, owing to the complex nature of the observed decay rates.