ABSTRACT
This study evaluates the feasibility of conducting in situ burning (ISB) on past major oil spills (i.e., spills since 1967 over 10,000 barrels in North America and over 50,000 barrels in South America and Europe) using current technology. A diverse set of 141 spills representing various combinations of parameters affecting spill response (e.g., spill size, oil type, weather conditions, sea temperature, and geographic location) initially were evaluated using four “Phase I” criteria: distance to populated area, oil weathering, logistics, and weather conditions. In Phase I, a spill that failed to meet one of the four criteria was considered an “unsuccessful” candidate for ISB. Spills that met all four criteria were further evaluated using a “Phase II” analysis that applied additional criteria and considered individual spill circumstances to determine if the spill should be rated a “successful,” “marginal call,” or “unsuccessful” ISB candidate.
In total, 47 of the 141 spills passed the Phase I analysis. Fourteen spills were ultimately determined successful in the Phase II analysis, and 12 were designated marginal calls. Proximity to populated areas was the most significant of the four Phase I criteria; 59 of the 141 spills did not pass Phase I because the incident occurred near a sizable city.
Robust profile monitoring for phase II analysis via residuals
