Remote detection of hydrocarbons in water by four-photon polarization Raman spectroscopy

A study was made of a method for remote detection of low concentrations of hydrocarbons by four-photon spectroscopy of the Kerr effect due to the Raman scattering. The minimum detectable concentration of benzene in water was found to be 30 ppm. Ways of improving on this value are considered. It is suggested that the method can be used for fast remote identification of oil pollution of the high seas.