The Investigation of Oil Pollution Using Remote Sensing Data and Geochemical Criteria in Qarah Chauq Area, Northern Iraq

Abstract

The study area is situated near Makhmour district, crossing the Lesser Zab River in (NW-SE) direction and covering an area of about (2000) square kilometers. Using thematic mapper (TM) and thermal band techniques, it was possible to observe thermal spots on the southern part of Qarah Chauq structure and at Wadi Kendinawa. Field samples collected from the southern part of Qarah Chauq structure contained no hydrocarbons. However, using Adope Photo Shop Program, Kendinawa samples showed evidence of hydrocarbons, which were reflected as colour phenomena within the study area. Using the same program, colour separation of hydrocarbons from sulphate minerals was carried out. The present study proves that, it is possible to carry out reliable colour measurements, by the use of thermal band technique, for the investigation of oil pullution in other parts of the country.