Geophysical Studies of Electrometry and GPR for Mapping Underground Pollution Spread Around the Petromidia Navodari Refinery

The rapid growth of the oil and gas industry, driven by the increasing demand for fossil fuels, has led to significant environmental challenges. Among these, hydrocarbon pollution around refineries has emerged as a critical issue that was largely overlooked until recent decades. Romania, a prominent player in the petroleum sector, continues to rely on substantial reserves for fuel production. However, the environmental consequences of refining and transporting petroleum products were historically ignored, leading to widespread soil and groundwater contamination.This study focuses on the Petromidia Navodari Refinery, one of Romania’s most important refineries, and investigates the extent and impact of underground hydrocarbon pollution. To achieve this, geophysical methods such as electrometry and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) were employed alongside soil drilling for sample analysis. The investigation covered several zones, each spanning 400 to 600 square meters, and extended over several kilometers surrounding the refinery. Measurements reached depths of up to four meters, encompassing the water table—a critical layer for environmental and public health.

Electrometric data revealed high resistivity values at depths of 0.5 to 3 meters, indicating the presence of hydrocarbons, which impede electrical conductivity. These findings align with the depth of the groundwater table, highlighting the risk of pollutant transport through underground water systems to populated areas. GPR surveys identified anomalies at depths of 1 to 2.5 meters, corresponding to zones affected by hydrocarbon infiltration. The integration of GPR and electrometric data with soil sample analyses confirmed hydrocarbon contamination in these layers.

Using these datasets, a detailed map was created to illustrate the spread of underground pollution, revealing both the affected area and the dynamic movement of contaminants. Additional mapping of groundwater flow patterns allowed for the estimation of the speed and direction of hydrocarbon migration, enabling predictions of the contamination’s future expansion.

This research underscores the significant environmental impact of petroleum processing and transport, particularly the contamination of soil and aquifers. Such pollution poses severe risks to public health, agriculture, and ecosystems. By identifying the affected zones and quantifying the extent of contamination, this study provides valuable insights for mitigation strategies.

The findings emphasize the urgent need for stricter environmental policies and remediation measures around refineries. These should include monitoring systems, improved waste management practices, and technologies for reducing hydrocarbon emissions into the environment. The integration of geophysical techniques such as electrometry and GPR proves to be an effective approach for assessing and managing underground pollution.

In conclusion, the study highlights the critical importance of addressing refinery-related pollution through comprehensive assessments and informed interventions. By providing a scientific basis for action, this research supports efforts to mitigate the environmental and public health impacts of the oil and gas industry.