Surface Microlayer

In this chapter, the methods used for microlayer sampling are illustrated using past and recent case studies. Several aspects relevant to the choice of one or more sampling methods for environmental assessment in the air–water interface are considered. The diversity and variety of parameters involved in microlayer assessments whatever context is being studied (biological, chemical, or physical) are considered. The development of automated methods for microlayer sampling can improve the quantity and quality of microlayer samples and measure water and air parameters. The environment chosen for microlayer studies and how it can be relevant in the selection of a sampler technique is discussed. In abrupt episodes such as oil spills, microlayer studies can play a key role in terms of spatial and temporal monitoring of trends. The chapter presents the state of the art on microlayer sampling and a brief description of the most assessed compounds. Microlayer case studies are reported considering differences such as the context, the environment studied, the approach and the samplers used. A brief overview of microlayer assessment in oil spill episodes concludes the chapter.