Remote Fluorescence Spectroscopy For Detection Of Organic Substances In Water

A wide range of naturally-occurring and manmade fluorescent organic substances exists in natural waters, and most are detectable by their fluorescence. Remote, laser-induced fluorescence spectra collected using a single excitation wavelength are useful for detection of broad categories of fluorescent substances in water, but may provide unreliable estimates of concentration and cannot be effectively used to discriminate among substances with similar fluorescence spectra. Synchronous spectroscopy, a relatively easy technique to perform in the laboratory, has the potential for discriminating among similar compounds and, by selecting appropriate excitation-emission wavelength pairs, should be adaptable to remote sensing systems.