Radiocarbon measurements on surface sediment organic matter following the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, 2010-2012

The Gulf Oil Spill injected a unique tracer into the Gulf of Mexico, radiocarbon-free fossil organic matter. Most Gulf organic matter is fixed at the surface with a modern radiocarbon (14C) content. We have traced the input of petro-carbon into the Gulf by following input of radiocarbon dead organic matter into the sediments and fauna.