Photodegradation of Volatile Organic Compounds in the Water-Soluble Fraction of Kuwait Crude Oil in Seawater: Effect of Environmental Factors

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are ubiquitous in marine areas in many parts of the world. Effect of environmental factors (light intensity, temperature, oxygen levels, and presence of sensitizer) on photodegradation of VOCs present in water-soluble fraction of Kuwait crude oil was investigated in laboratory conditions. The results showed that all factors investigated had significant effects on photo degradation rates. Higher temperatures produced faster degradation rates. At 15 °C, most of the volatile optimally degraded when light intensity was set at 750 W/m2. Oxygen level of 7 ppm and presence of sensitizer was also required. Oxygen level of 4 ppm and light intensity of 500 W/m2 and presence of a sensitizer produced optimal degradation rates for most of the compounds at 30 °C. At 40 °C, deoxygenated water-soluble fraction and light intensity of 500 W/m2 produced the fastest degradation for many of the volatile compounds. Linear regression indicated that for most of the compounds temperature had the greatest effect on degradation rates.