Course content

This course focuses on applications of state-of-the-art methods for detecting oil and oil degradation product under both temperate and arctic conditions. This include advanced field sampling and analytical fingerprinting (different chromatographic analyses) and statistical techniques for oil spill identification (oil spill forensics). These analytical techniques are also relevant for a wider applications within the industry, and to study other organic pollutants in marine environmental matrices. Typical ecotoxicological effects observed following oil spills are also discussed. Theory and practical use of modelling tools describing spreading, effects and weathering processes relevant for marine oil spills are an inportant part of the course. Techniques for responding to oil spills (mechanical recovery, in-situ burning and use of dispersants) are also presented and discussed.

Learning outcome

After examination the student will be able to:

• Present in-depth knowledge of weathering processes of marine oil spills.
• Use state-of-the art software to describe and model fate and behaviour of marine oil spills.
• Assess and consider measures to reduce damage from an oil spill and suggest appropriate and effective methods for collecting oil and handling of the spill.
• Interpret and understand results from a wide selection of analytical methods used to characterise physical- and chemical properties of oil spills.
• Use an international recognised system for identifying sources of illegal oil spill through advanced chemical and statistical fingerprinting (oil spill forensics).

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, project work including field- and laboratory work and teamwork [Distribution 2, 6, 4]. Lectures (30 hours), field- and laboratory work (80 hours). Both field-, lab- and modelling work are performed in groups. Teaching (Lectures/Field/Lab/Modelling) will be given as seminars in intensive periods and schedule will be given at the start of the semester. Teaching staff will be both from SINTEF, Equinor and NTNU. Before the laboratory activity starts up, there will be given a compulsory HSE-lecture, which is a prerequisite to get access to the lab. course. Normally this take place during the first two weeks of the semester. Information about time for mandatory activity in the semester will be announced at semester start. All teaching, information and study material are in English.

Expected work load in the course is 200-225 hours.

Compulsory assignments

• Approved field and laboratory report

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Equal to; Analytical Chemistry, Basic Course (KJ2050), Chromatography (KJ2053), Environmental Chemistry (KJ2070, KJ2071 or KJ2072) and Pollution Biology (BI2071 or BI2072).

Required previous knowledge

KJ1000 or KJ1002 or KJ1003 or KJ1004 or TMT4115 or corresponding courses. Admission to the course is restricted to students with this course as mandatory in their program. Others can apply for eventual free places.

Course materials

Will be announced at the beginning of the semester.