Quick Methods For Detecting Hydrocarbon in Samples

Fluorescence, Cut, Stain


• Frequently an oil stain may be observed with the naked eye in washed sample or cores.
• Chances of detecting a show are a little bit difficult if a crude oil emulsion mud is being used.
• Cutting containing HC will usually fluorescence while other cutting will remain dark
• Dry gas, which contains little or no distillate will not fluorescence.
• Distinguish between mineral with HC fluorescence:
 Mineral florescence will usually have a sharp boundary while HC fluorescence will not.
 Mineral florescence will not usually have cut while HC will have. Cut is the surest method of distinguishing between HC fluorescence with Mineral fluorescence. A cut may be obtained from HC, but never from minerals.
 The color of fluorescence from HC usually blue-white (similar to the flame color of welding torch)
• In Carbonate, the presence of fluorescence without any confirming evidence such as a cut or gas show, does not constitute a HC show.
• The higher the API gravity of the HC in the cutting, the brighter the fluorescence will be. (Bright, blue-white, to violet color) similar to that shown by refined petroleum product)
• Very low API gravity HC fluorescence with brown or orange color that is often hard to observe.
• HC in the cutting will be released and will appear as ribbons of fluorescence when mixed with chlorothene.
• Contaminated cutting may give a cut.
• In the cutting contains considerable free oil, the solvent will become visibly discolored and a sticky, fluorescent brown ring will remain when the solvent evaporates.