INVESTIGATION OF SINKING METHODS FOR REMOVAL OF OIL POLLUTION FROM WATER SURFACES. PHASE I: SURVEY OF THE STATE-OF-THE-ART

The objective of the program was to investigate materials that can be utilized in the cleanup of massive oil spills by sinking the oil. Articles and publications were reviewed to locate and develop information on sinking absorbers. Literature pertaining to sinking absorbers was not abundant and most of the work that has been done was done in Europe, expecially in England. It is believed, however, that practically all information of any value pertaining to sinking absorbers was located and processed. Eighteen materials offered by manifacturers have been located for investigation as sinking absorvers; one latex treated barite, one treated chalk, five expansive clays, three talcs (treated and untreated), three asbestos materials (treated and untreated), three treated snads, and two treated fly ashes. Based on results of the literature survey and on information supplied by the manufacturers, the 18 materials are assessed and rated herein with regard to effectiveness in absorbing and sinking oil, effectiveness in retaining oil, availability and cost of the material, hazards to personnel and plant and animal life, and difficulty of application. It is emphasized that the assessments and ratings are tentative, based on current knowledge of the materials, and thus may change drastically as more information is gathered. With regard to the overall test program, it can be said at this time that no unusual problems have been encountered and the program is proceeding satisfactory. (Author)

• Corporate Authors:

  U.S. Army Waterways Experiment Station

  3909 Halls Ferry Road
  Vicksburg, MS  United States  39180-6199
• Authors:
  • Houston, B J
• Publication Date: 1971-2

Media Info

• Pagination: 70 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Oil sorbents; Oil spill cleanup
• Old TRIS Terms: Oil absorption; Oil sinking agents
• Subject Areas: Environment; Marine Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00019451
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: USCG-704110/A/001-1
• Contract Numbers: DOT-CG-00538-B
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jun 30 1973 12:00AM