This paper presents results and analyses that indicate, more clearly, the ability of the convergent structure of the Surface Currents Field (CSC) of capturing superficial pollutants. This convergent structure is induced by the frontal interaction of the Brazil Current and the coastal circulation in the off-shore Campos Basin. The characterization of the convergent structure of the CSC is made by particle tracking simulation with a stochastic transport model, parameterized with Wiener-Levy nonhomogeneous process, so that it allows that the advective component, supplied by CSC, be nonuniform. The CSC derived from sequential infrared images of the NOAA satellites, by Maximum Cross Correlation method (CCM), is stationary and with negligible turbulent diffusion. The success of the CCM method for estimating CSC, depends on the perfect correction and registration of the images, as well as on the conditions for a good conservation of the "identity" of the tracers (size of tracer and time between images). These conditions are sufficiently satisfied for the off-shore Campos Basin and the used images. The analysis of the particle tracking from CSC estimates, show clear structures of stationary character, following two patterns: a winter pattern, where the dominant structure is a convergence line and a summer pattern, where the convergent structure is controlled by a meander. In agreement with these convergence patterns, there are also two patterns for both the influence and capture areas: the winter season is dominated by the convergence line and summer season by the meander. Considering that the influence and capture areas are almost totally controlled by the "advective diffusion" (deterministic), induced by the convergent structures of CSC, it is expected that they absorb 90% of the floating substances that eventually can be generated inside their limits, as oil originated by accidental spills or seep accumulation.
particle tracking; pollutant transport; advection-diffusion model; satellite images; cross correlation; Campos Basin
