Linking Natural Oil Seeps from the Gulf of Mexico to Their Origin by Use of Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b04445
• Publication Date: 2018-01-10T19:04:55Z
• Authors: Logan C. Krajewski; Vladislav V. Lobodin; Caroline Johansen; Tessa E. Bartges; Ekaterina V. Maks...; Ian R. MacDonald; Alan G. Marshall
• Keywords: Petroleum seep; Racing slick

We report chemical characterization of natural oil seeps from the Gulf Mexico by Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) and Gas Chromatography/Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry (GC/APCI-MS), to highlight how FT-ICR MS can also be employed as a means determine petroleum connectivity, in addition traditional GC/MS techniques. The source is Green Canyon (GC) 600 lease block Mexico. Within GC600, two seepage zones, Mega Plume Birthday Candles, continuously release hydrocarbons develop persistent slicks at sea surface above them. chemically trace seep itself, further reservoir 5 km away GC645 (Holstein Reservoir). establish connectivity between samples confirm common geological origin for slicks, seep, oil. ratios seven biomarkers detected GC/APCI-MS display clear similarity GC600 samples, well distinct difference another collected ∼300 (Macondo crude MC252 block). principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrate similarities that distinctly differ MC252. A geographical postulated GC600/GC645 with migrating found up through water column an slick.