OSRR-288-Outdoor Wave Tank and Program of Mid-Scale In Situ Burn Testing in Alaska
This research project was conducted in two separate phases.
This research project was conducted in two separate phases.
This is a Joint Industry Project (JIP) with MMS, Environment Canada, Canadian Coast Guard and the U.S. Coast Guard. Several United States and Canadian government organizations have conducted research on the environmental effects of burning oil in situ. Laboratory experiments have been conducted and models developed to predict heat transfer, pollutant generation, and field effectiveness. A number of large scale burns were conducted to confirm these data and to provide information on operational aspects.
The objective of this study was to quantify the ignition, in situ burning characteristics, and soot production of six U.S. OCS crudes and their emulsions. This was accomplished through a modest, laboratory scale test program.
Phase I: The objective of this project was to develop a near full-scale screening test protocol for the effectiveness and durability of fire resistant oil containment boom that incorporates simultaneous testing in waves and flames. Realistic, inexpensive testing is needed in both waves and high-temperature flames for extended time periods to evaluate any fireboom systems capabilities and limitations before expensive testing at sea.
The objective was to evaluate necessary components for the development of airborne laser ignition of oil spilled on the open ocean. The feasibility of this concept was proven, and engineering studies into laser power requirements and suitability were funded by Environment Canada (EC). This joint Minerals Management Service-EC project will downsize a laser system to make it compatible with a medium sized helicopter. This system will be evaluated with particular emphasis upon laser focusing and aiming.
Research by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) focuses on the burning characteristics of crude oil fires on water; the composition of combustion products; and the dispersion and settling of particulate material in the smoke plume. Information from laboratory and mesoscale crude oil burns contributes to understanding the impacts of in-situ burning on the environment.