Mechanisms for identifying suspected slicks from oil activity in Campos Basin, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract

This article intends to demonstrate to the reader the importance of the use of technologies for identification and decision making during the occurrence of an accidental spill or for operational lack of control from petroleum activities. For such a process it is necessary to fully know or even have an estimate of which environmental factors influence the trajectory and weathering of the oil, since the oceanic environment is dynamic. In locations where oil activity is intensely performed, more routine and assertive actions are required to be implemented. The oil exploration and production area of the Campos Basin in the state of Rio de Janeiro is one of them. This is due to its large population of exploration and production units, as well as the transit of vessels supporting this activity. Added to these factors, the coast of Rio de Janeiro State has tourist and fishing importance. With this scenario, constant vigilance is required. Orbital image analysis with SAR - synthetic aperture radar technology - for feature identifications that may contain oily substances, contribute to effective monitoring and are able to promote better resource utilization when assimilated with other monitoring or combat tools oil pollution.