Drone Equipment and Configuration for Crude Oil Spill Detection in Water

Abstract

Purpose: The objectives of this article was to outline the various equipment and configuration of drones which can be used to detect and support oil spill response in water. The study aimed at identify the type of sensors that can be mounted on drones for effective crude oil spill detection in water.
 Methodology: A systematic review of past articles on drones in disaster management was done. In this article, various parts of drone and configuration was tested. Sensors capable of detecting crude oil in the visible, infra-red, near infrared, laser fluoro-sensor were elaborated.
 Findings: A drone can properly be used for oil spill response operations. Appropriate sensors mounted on the drone can detect oil spill in water and can also access locations which are not readily accessible to large ships and other aerial patrol platform. The limitation of drones is the payload capability and its inability to operate well in windy weather.
 Recommendation: Since data collection with drone are faster, cheaper and easier during an oil spill response operations, it is highly recommended to mount the suitable sensor capable of detecting oil sheen even during nighttime operations.