Laboratory
Here at Cedre, we have state-of-the-art equipment to identify the origin of a spill, assess the contamination level in the environment, test response products and assess response techniques.
Characterising oil
Oil can be characterised in physical terms (flash point, density, viscosity) or in chemical terms (asphaltene, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and paraffin content). This type of analysis is often a prelude to a study on the product's behaviour when spilled in water.
Identifying the source of the spill
Using our equipment, we are able to analyse oil samples taken in the environment to identify their origin for operational purposes, but also legal purposes as in the case of the Prestige oil spill. In this respect, Cedre is part of the Bonn Agreement oil spill identification network OSInet which comprises different laboratories around the world and which organises an annual oil analysis intercalibration exercise.
Measuring the level of contamination in the environment
Our laboratory is also equipped to measure the quantities of different chemical compounds (PAHs, VOCs, PCBs and pesticides) in oil, water, sediment and biological tissues.
Testing response products
Based on standardised procedures, we conduct tests on response products such as sorbents, dispersants and washing agents. If the tested product is proven effective, it is approved and added to our ad hoc lists.
To evaluate response techniques
All our laboratory apparatus can also be used to contribute to the evaluation of certain response techniques (chemical dispersion, in situ burning, recovery, etc.).