ENERGY DISSIPATIVE DEVICES TO CONTROL OIL SLICKS IN FAST-CURRENT ENVIRONMENTS
ABSTRACT A concept to control and recover oil slicks in potential water current velocities of 10 knots is presented. The energy dissipation concept involves gradually slowing down the fast-moving oil slick and a layer of water flowing directly beneath such that the critical velocity Vc is never reached at the oil-water interface. In the process of slowing down, the oil layer thickens to a point where conventional recovery techniques may be used to remove the oil. Three research programs are discussed that investigate applications of the energy dissipation concept. These efforts under sponsorship of the U.S. Coast Guard include Hydronautics’ Surface Velocity Retarder Oil Skimmer (SVROS), Seaward's Streaming Fiber Device, and Texas & University's Porous Barrier System. Results of preliminary testing are discussed and analyzed. Program plans for subsequent work on the energy dissipation concept are described.