Applications
The underwater mass spectrometer employed by Beaver Creek Analytical, LLC (BCA) is derived from a design originally developed at the University of South Florida in 1999. Since its inception, this technology has been utilized in various forms and applications, many of which are enumerated below or have been documented in a 2016 review.
Seep Hunting
Utilizing underwater mass spectrometry equipment developed by our team, BCA has participated in numerous seep hunting campaigns with various academic and energy clients. These campaigns have been conducted at depths of up to 3000 meters over several days and during campaigns that have extended for many weeks. Seeps have been detected and mapped using a combination of mass spectrometry and sonar techniques. Manuscripts.
Seep Characterization
In situ chemical characterization with a mass spectrometer assesses seeps without the need for close proximity by generating a C1/C2 ratio. This method saves significant money by aiding discrete sampling and course decision-making. A close approach to a seep enables detection of various aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, providing real-time data on the seep's origins. In situ calibration ensures reliable results for inter-comparison studies and time-stability assessments. BCA has characterized more than 100 cold seeps with underwater mass spectrometry including brine pools and mud volcanoes.
NOAA, 2013
Nitrogen Cycle
Human activities release reactive nitrogen affecting marine ecosystems, and recent studies suggest denitrification models need revisiting to understand the role of sediment porewaters in the nitrogen cycle. Underwater mass spectrometry has been demonstrated to provide extensive high-quality dissolved gas (O₂, N₂, Ar, CO₂, and CH₄) towards achieving this understanding. Manuscripts.
Noble Gas Analysis
Underwater mass spectrometry is a valuable tool for determining noble gases like argon, neon and krypton in academic research. It allows for direct, in situ measurements of dissolved gases in the aquatic environment, providing real-time data with high spatial and temporal resolution. This technique is particularly useful in its ability to make determinations of noble gases for studying processes like gas exchange, water mass mixing, and sea-ice production. Manuscripts.
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Spill Response
Underwater mass spectrometer deployments have defined, tracked, and characterized hydrocarbon plumes and their degradation byproducts (e.g. methane, ethane, carbon dioxide, and oxygen) levels simultaneously. By measuring these key gas concentrations, scientists can monitor hydrocarbon breakdown rates, assess marine ecosystem health, and devise effective remediation strategies. Manuscripts.
Hydrogen
Recent discoveries of natural, or 'white hydrogen' have the potential to impact the energy transition. Underwater mass spectrometry can detect white hydrogen seeps by providing real-time data on the presence and concentration of hydrogen in various environments. This technique enables scientists to monitor and analyze hydrogen emissions, aiding in the identification of new hydrogen resources and contributing to energy solutions.
USGS, 2023
Methane Hydrates
The deep ocean hosts methane hydrates, crystalline structures of methane in ice found in sediments and permafrost. These are potential energy resources and influence climate dynamics, making their stability crucial. Underwater mass spectrometry provides real-time measurements of dissolved gases, aiding the study of methane hydrate deposits. Additionally, underwater mass spectrometry examines biogeochemical processes like microbial methane oxidation and maps methane hydrate distributions, creating detailed concentration profiles across various depths and regions. Manuscripts.
Non-methane hydrocarbons by UV degradation
Sunlight exposure to waters containing polyunsaturated fatty acids like linolenic acid can produce non-methane hydrocarbon gases such as ethylene and ethane as photo-decomposition products. Link. Estuaries are known to cause the breakdown of freshwater phytoplankton, releasing many reactive compounds. Link.
Characterization of Leaking Fluids
Identifying the source of fluids or bubbles released from the seafloor, pipelines, or oil-field infrastructure is crucial. These fluids might include crude products, hydraulic fluid, air, natural gas, or various other industrial substances. Our under water mass spectrometer enables the identification and characterization of these fluids, facilitating informed decision-making in real-time during operations or inspections.
Hydrothermal Vents
Hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor release geothermally heated water from the Earth's crust. These unique formations are significant for their ecosystems, role in geochemical cycles, and energy resource potential. The mineral and gas-rich fluids they emit are crucial for studying biogeochemical processes. Providing real-time analysis of dissolved gases, underwater mass spectrometry is a leading technique for analyzing these fluids. Manuscripts.
Carbon System
Underwater mass spectrometry is capable of CO₂ fugacity and dissolved inorganic carbon measurements, enabling the determination and resolution of the carbon system. With simultaneous measurements of methane, oxygen, nitrogen and argon, it facilitates detailed assessments of carbon fluxes, thereby enhancing the understanding of carbon cycling and its impact on climate dynamics. Manuscripts.
Anoxic Bodies
Basins that are isolated from open circulator systems tend to become anoxic at depth. Examples include the Black Sea, various fjords, wells, springs, vents, and borrow pits. The Underwater mass spectrometer is suited for quantifying the anoxic gases that accumulate under these conditions, sometimes to significant levels over thousands of years. Gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and hydrogen sulfide can all be measured accurately and provide insights into system dynamics. Manuscripts.
