Field techniques for fluorescence measurements targeting dissolved organic matter, hydrocarbons, and wastewater in environmental waters: Principles and guidelines for instrument selection, operation and maintenance, quality assurance, and data reporting

Abstract

The use of field deployable fluorescence sensors by the U.S. Geological Survey has become increasingly common for a wide variety of surface water and groundwater investigations. This report addresses field deployable fluorometers that measure the fluorescence response of various substances in water exposed to incident light generated by the sensor. An introduction to the basic principles of field measurements of fluorescence is provided, as well as technical background information on sensors that target dissolved organic matter, wastewater, and hydrocarbons, including sensor selection, operating principles, key features, and design elements. General deployment, operation and maintenance protocols, quality-assurance techniques, and suggestions for data reporting are presented to facilitate and standardize the collection and accurate communication of data collected by the U.S. Geological Survey across studies, sites, and sensor types. Sensor performance issues and common interferences are also described. An appendix is included to describe sensor calibration criteria and procedures, reporting units, and specific approaches to correct for interferences for fluorescence of dissolved organic matter sensors.