Volume scattering and reflectivity from Louisiana Sweet Crude oil measured at 200 and 400 kHz in the Gulf of Mexico, May 2010

Between May 19 and 21, 2010, RESON and Terrasound conducted experiments with SeaBat 200- and 400-kHz multibeam systems in the Gulf of Mexico. Tests were carried out with a wide-opening-angle multibeam system and a narrow-opening-angle multibeam system. Volume scattering from oil contaminated water columns as well as non-polluted water columns were measured and comparisons were made in order to determine changes in volume scattering. Reflectivity from a water/oil interface was also measured. Results show a significant difference in volume backscatter between oil contaminated water columns and non-polluted water columns. The reflectivity from a water/oil interface is pronounced.