Radar Detection of Hydrocarbon Gas Seepage Associated with Underground Oil and Gas Deposits

Abstract

Small, simple marine radars have been successfully used for finding gas seepage indicative of oil or gas producing fields. There has been some controversy about the method of operation and the physical phenomenon detected by the radar; but the basis for the technique is now better understood after discussions with the inventor, Robert Owen, and by observing how he operates in the field. It is believed that the radar is detecting the turbulence introduced in the lower atmosphere by the escape of hydrocarbon gases from the ground. Suggestions are offered for better understanding and exploiting this radar method for detection of hydrocarbon gases.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 12, 1988
Accession Number
ADA199354

Entities

People

  • Merrill I. Skolnik

Organizations

  • United States Naval Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Sensors

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Atmospheric Motion
  • Detection
  • Detectors
  • Elevation
  • Measurement
  • Photography
  • Radar
  • Radar Beacons
  • Radar Cross Sections
  • Radar Equipment
  • Radar Reflections
  • Radar Signals
  • Recognition
  • Scattering
  • Side Looking Radar
  • Synthetic Aperture Radar
  • Tape Recording

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics.
  • Petroleum Engineering
  • Systems Analysis and Design