Abstract
A simple model for describing the simultaneous evaporation and spreading of oil spills at sea has been developed and tested. A previously reported theory was used for calculating the aerodynamic part of the evaporation process. Here, the thermodynamic part, i.e. the oil characterization and the weathering processes, is described in detail. By comparison with the results of laboratory evaporation experiments and sea trials the model is shown to work quite adequately. Also, the influence of the mixing of oil into the water column, e.g. due to wave action, is shown to be small enough to be neglected. The spreading model was purposely kept as simple as possible, in view of the uncertain influences of wave action and emulsion formation. The velocity of the edge of the oil slick is prescribed and a critical thickness beyond which the slick stops spreading is introduced. The latter turns out to have a significant influence on the rate of evaporation. Examples of crude evaporation are given and the influence of temperature and wind velocity is investigated.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
