Oil spill dispersant formulation from Palmitoyl-DEA and methyl ester sulfonate

Abstract

Surfactants are chemical compounds that can interact with solvents to reduce surface tension. Palmitoyl-Diethanolamide surfactant (Palmitoyl-DEA) and methyl ester sulfonate (MES) can be applied in dispersing oil in seawater as Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD). An OSD formulation derived from a mixture of two surfactant solutions, namely Palmitoyl-DEA and MES, was found. Diethanolamide non-ionic surfactant solution and anionic methyl ester sulfonate surfactant solution in various concentrations were mixed according to their respective ratios at 50℃ for 60 minutes. The OSD product obtained was then analyzed for density, surface tension, and emulsion stability. OSD products at a concentration of 4% MES and 2% DEA with a 2:1 ratio obtained the best analytical results. The OSD product has excellent density, surface tension, and emulsion stability (> 80%). Furthermore, testing of OSD products was carried out for oil pollution in seawater. The results of simulation tests using OSD products for handling petroleum pollution in seawater (15 mL/L) show an excellent ability to disperse oil (> 90%). The oil and OSD dispersed in seawater showed a more significant increase in COD and BOD values.