Scientists have discovered volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a Finnish borehole over two kilometers deep, providing new insights into the global carbon cycle and air quality. The site, drilled by the Geological Survey of Finland, yielded groundwater estimated to be tens of millions of years old.
Researchers collected gas and microbial samples from the 2,516-meter-deep borehole, which revealed a wide range of natural VOCs, including aromatic hydrocarbons and sulfur compounds. The findings, published in the Communications Earth & Environment journal, suggest that microbes play an important role in producing and breaking down these compounds.
The study’s lead author, Assistant Professor Riikka Kietäväinen, explains that the team was guided to the VOCs by smell, detecting a range of odors from low concentrations. The analysis revealed over 40 VOCs, with butane, benzene, and dimethylsulfide prevailing.
“This study has moved us a step closer to understanding the interactions between the organic and inorganic domains,” Kietäväinen said. “Research at the borehole will continue.”
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/mysterious-organic-compounds-discovered-over-7500-feet-underground-in-finland