Ultra-violet fluorescence (UVF) is used as a field screening tool in the on-site detection of a variety of compounds in soil and water, but is most effective and most commonly used to detect petroleum hydrocarbons and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PHC and PAHs). Examples of contaminants that contain PHCs and PAHs include gasoline, jet fuel, heating oils, crude oils, creosote, diesel, and much more.

A UVF works by shining a UV light onto a prepared sample, which excites the contaminant molecules within the sample and causes them to fluoresce. The fluorescence is measured by the machine and is directly correlated to the concentration of contaminants within the sample. AEL uses a top-of-the-line UVF detector which is capable of measuring contaminants in the low parts per million and even into the parts per billion range, comparable to the detection range achieved by a fully-equipped modern laboratory. Some laboratory analysis will still be required for quality control purposes and to verify concentrations of individual compounds. 

UVF is used as a field screening tool and is particularly useful during delineation and closure sampling of hydrocarbons during remediation, as it provides a larger amount of screening samples while reducing the total amount of costly laboratory samples required. This allows for accurate and cost-effective delineation of contaminated areas and evaluation of remedial progress. 

A typical sample can be prepared and tested in minutes. The UVF can be operated by a battery pack, making it a good choice for remote fieldwork. UVF is a valuable on-site testing technology that can be used on a wide range of sites, saving you both time and money.