Detection of hydrocarbons in clay soils: A laboratory experiment using spectroscopy in the mid- and thermal infrared

► We show a laboratory experiment on clay soils with hydrocarbon pollution in different quantities. ► Absorption features related to hydrocarbon presence are strongly developed at low quantities. ► Statistical analysis with PLSR and SMLR indicates that it is possible to develop predictive models. ► Present and upcoming sensors only cover part of the diagnostic features.