AN OFFSHORE MECHANIZED SORBENT OIL RECOVERY SYSTEM USING VESSELS OF OPPORTUNITY

Abstract

ABSTRACT An experimental prototype offshore oil recovery system for use on vessels of opportunity has been developed by the Civil Engineering Laboratory under the sponsorship of the Navy's Supervisor of Salvage. The system is based on the concept of mechanized broadcasting, harvesting and recycling of polyurethane sorbent chips. A two-component, drop-type sorbent broadcaster was designed to uniformly distribute the sorbent in the high wind and wave conditions expected in the open ocean. Theoretical analyses of vessel motion indicated the harvester can be rigidly mounted to a barge-type vessel but that at least vertical articulation is required when mounted on an offshore work boat. The experimental prototype was functionally tested at sea without oil. The tests indicated that the waves and surface currents generated by the vessel can increase the interaction between the sorbent and the oil and enhance the sorption process. The tests also aided in identifying the characteristics of the sorbent required for use in a system of this type.