CONTAINMENT BOOMS WITH OIL ABSORBING SPONGES [ OIL SPILLS]

Abstract

CONTAINMENT BOOMS WITH OIL ABSORBING SPONGES (OIL SPILLS) The present invention relates to an oil spill containment boom system that integrates oil-absorbing sponges to enhance both containment and cleanup efficiency in aquatic environments. The system comprises a synthetic rubber pipe that provides structural support and flexibility, with recycled 1-liter plastic bottles placed inside to ensure buoyancy. Attached to the outer surface of the boom are oil-absorbing sponges, which are secured using fastener tape rolls. These sponges are made of hydrophobic and oleophilic materials, allowing them to selectively absorb oil while repelling water. Upon deployment, the system forms a floating barrier around an oil spill, preventing the spread of oil and actively absorbing it from the water surface. This dual-function system offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and reusable solution for oil spill management, making it adaptable to various water conditions and spill scenarios. The invention is designed for rapid deployment, efficient oil recovery, and minimal environmental impact, addressing the limitations of traditional containment and cleanup methods.

Specification

Description:CONTAINMENT BOOMS WITH OIL ABSORBING SPONGES (OIL SPILLS)

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] This invention is situated in the field of environmental protection and pollution control, particularly focusing on methods, apparatus, and materials used for the containment, absorption, and mitigation of oil spills on water bodies. The invention addresses the challenges of oil spill management in various water-based environments, such as oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, and industrial water systems. This field encompasses a range of technologies aimed at minimizing the ecological damage caused by accidental or deliberate discharge of oil and other hydrophobic pollutants into aquatic ecosystems.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to containment booms integrated with oil-absorbing materials that selectively target hydrocarbons, providing a dual-function system. The booms form a physical barrier around the oil spill, preventing it from spreading and reaching sensitive environmental areas. The addition of oil-absorbing sponges to the containment booms enhances their functionality by not only containing the spill but also actively absorbing the oil, facilitating faster and more effective cleanup.

[0003] The containment boom technology is particularly significant in scenarios where: Maritime spills occur from oil tankers, cargo ships, or offshore drilling rigs, potentially threatening coastal habitats and marine life. Industrial spill incidents happen in ports, harbors, or during fuel transfer and storage operations near water bodies. Onshore leaks and runoff risk contaminating inland water bodies, where traditional containment methods may be less effective.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Oil spills are a significant environmental hazard, with severe consequences for marine ecosystems, coastal habitats, and local economies. Oil and hydrocarbon-based spills can occur from various sources, including offshore drilling operations, shipping accidents, industrial discharges, and land-based runoff. Once spilled, oil spreads rapidly on the water surface, forming a slick that can extend over large areas, contaminating shorelines, and impacting wildlife, aquatic plants, and the livelihood of coastal communities.

[0005] Traditional oil spill response techniques typically involve containment booms and oil skimmers. Containment booms are floating barriers that encircle and isolate the spilled oil, preventing it from spreading and facilitating cleanup. These booms are often deployed in coastal areas, ports, and open waters to mitigate environmental damage. However, while containment booms can limit the movement of oil, they do not actively absorb it. This leaves residual oil on the water surface, which may still pose a risk to the environment.

[0006] Challenges with Existing Solutions:

[0007] Limited Absorption Capacity: Traditional containment booms primarily act as barriers, requiring additional equipment such as skimmers to physically remove the oil, which can be labor-intensive, time-consuming, and less effective in rough or remote waters.

[0008] Secondary Environmental Impact: Chemical dispersants, often used to break down oil slicks, can have toxic effects on marine life, leading to further environmental damage.

[0009] Wave and Weather Conditions: Rough seas, currents, and wind can impact the stability and effectiveness of containment booms, causing them to break or lose their containment capability.

[0010] High Operational Costs: The deployment and maintenance of booms, skimmers, and other equipment can be expensive, especially for large spills or those in hard-to-reach locations.

[0011] Emerging Need for Integrated Absorption Capabilities Given the limitations of traditional methods, there is a growing demand for oil spill response technologies that combine containment and absorption in a single, efficient system. The need for rapid response and containment of oil spills is particularly critical in sensitive and remote environments, where resources may be limited, and environmental damage can be extensive and long-lasting.

[0012] Innovation with Oil-Absorbing Materials: Oil-absorbing materials, particularly those that are hydrophobic and oleophilic, offer a promising solution by selectively absorbing oil while repelling water. These materials can be designed with high porosity and surface area, enhancing their absorption efficiency. However, these sponges or absorbent materials alone do not provide containment, making it challenging to deploy them on a large scale in open water without additional structures.

[0013] Overview of the Invention's Approach: This invention addresses these challenges by integrating oil-absorbing sponges directly into containment booms, creating a dual-function system that not only contains the oil spill but also actively absorbs the oil. By placing 1-liter plastic bottles within a synthetic rubber pipe for flotation, the boom remains buoyant and stable on the water's surface. Oil-absorbing sponges, attached to the boom using fastener tape rolls, selectively absorb oil without taking in water. This design improves the speed and efficiency of oil spill response, reduces dependency on additional equipment, and minimizes the environmental impact of spill cleanup efforts.

[0014] Advancements Over Prior Art:

[0015] Dual Functionality: Unlike conventional booms that only contain, this invention simultaneously contains and absorbs oil, offering a comprehensive solution in a single system.

[0016] Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective: The use of plastic bottles for flotation and reusable oil-absorbing sponges contributes to a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach.

[0017] Rapid Deployment and Versatility: Designed for rapid deployment, this system can be used in various spill scenarios, from industrial sites to offshore spills, regardless of water conditions.

[0018] Reduced Operational Complexity: By combining containment and absorption, this invention simplifies the logistics of oil spill response, reducing the need for skimmers or additional equipment.

[0019] This invention represents a significant advancement in the field of oil spill response, providing a practical and efficient solution to minimize environmental damage and enhance cleanup efforts.

[0020] 887/CHE/2004: This invention describes a polymeric composition for producing a biocompatible sponge designed to absorb tissue fluids. The composition includes polyvinyl alcohol as the main polymer, crosslinked with an aldehyde in acidic conditions, along with a plasticizer and surfactant. This combination enhances the sponge's absorbency and flexibility, making it suitable for medical applications where effective fluid management is essential.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The invention primarily aims:

[0022] To create a containment boom that not only restricts the spread of oil on water surfaces but also actively absorbs oil, reducing the need for additional skimming equipment and ensuring a more effective cleanup process.

[0023] To reduce the ecological impact of oil spills by utilizing oil-absorbing sponges that selectively absorb oil without retaining water, allowing for faster and more effective removal of hydrocarbons from the water surface.

[0024] To incorporate eco-friendly and reusable components such as synthetic rubber pipes for structure and recycled 1-liter plastic bottles for flotation, making the boom both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.
[0025] To design a containment system that remains stable in various aquatic conditions, including rough seas, currents, and waves, ensuring its effectiveness across different spill scenarios.

[0026] To provide a system that can be deployed quickly and efficiently in emergency spill situations, minimizing setup time and logistical requirements for responders.

[0027] To offer a containment solution that reduces operational costs by combining containment and absorption in one system, eliminating the need for separate containment and skimming operations.

[0028] To enable the use of this containment boom in diverse settings, such as industrial, maritime, and coastal spill responses, making it suitable for various sizes and types of oil spills.

[0029] To design a containment boom system that is easy to maintain, with reusable oil-absorbing components that can be cleaned or replaced as needed, extending the product's lifespan and reducing waste.

[0030] To reduce the need for chemical dispersants and other environmentally damaging substances, relying instead on physical containment and natural absorption to address oil spills.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0031] The invention provides an innovative oil spill containment boom system that integrates oil-absorbing sponges directly into the containment boom structure. This dual-function system not only restricts the spread of oil on water surfaces but also actively absorbs it, offering a comprehensive solution to oil spill management and environmental protection.

[0032] The system is constructed using a synthetic rubber pipe that encloses recycled plastic bottles for flotation, ensuring buoyancy and stability in various water conditions. Fastener tape rolls attach oil-absorbing sponges along the length of the boom, providing a means to absorb oil selectively from the water surface without retaining water. The oil-absorbing sponges utilize hydrophobic, oleophilic materials, designed specifically for high absorption efficiency, ensuring the maximum removal of oil from water.

[0033] Key features of this invention include:

[0034] Dual-Functionality: The containment boom serves as both a barrier to prevent oil spread and an absorber to remove oil from the water, reducing reliance on additional equipment such as skimmers.

[0035] Eco-Friendly Design: By using recycled plastic bottles as flotation aids, the system promotes sustainability. The oil-absorbing sponges are reusable, allowing for repeated use and easy maintenance.

[0036] Cost-Effectiveness: Combining containment and absorption into a single system lowers operational costs, making it a viable solution for large-scale spills as well as smaller incidents.

[0037] Rapid Deployment: The design is simple, with easy-to-assemble components that enable fast deployment in emergency situations. This ensures that oil spills can be managed swiftly, reducing their environmental impact.

[0038] Versatile Applications: The system is suitable for use across a variety of water bodies, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and industrial water systems, making it ideal for maritime, industrial, and coastal oil spill responses.

[0039] The invention effectively addresses the limitations of traditional containment booms by offering a lightweight, stable, and reusable containment system that actively aids in the cleanup process. This system is designed to handle varying aquatic conditions, including rough seas and strong currents, while providing an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical dispersants.

[0040] This invention provides a significant advancement in oil spill response technology by integrating oil containment and absorption into a single, efficient, and sustainable system. It represents an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and highly adaptable solution for mitigating the environmental damage caused by oil spills, enhancing both the containment and recovery of oil from water bodies.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING

[0041] The figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the oil spill containment boom system components, highlighting the key elements involved in its construction and functionality.

[0042] The figure 2 illustrates the overall workflow of the oil spill response system using the containment boom with oil-absorbing sponges.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] Containment Booms: A Critical Tool for Environmental Protection- Containment booms are temporary, floating barriers deployed on water surfaces to contain oil spills or hazardous substances. They are critical for preventing the spread of pollutants, which can otherwise harm shorelines, marine habitats, and other sensitive environments. By creating a physical barrier, booms trap spilled materials, allowing response teams to contain and remove the pollution before it spreads. These tools are particularly essential in maritime environments, such as oceans, harbors, and rivers, and in industrial settings near water, like ports and refineries.

[0044] Types of Containment Booms- Containment booms can be classified based on the type of spill they are intended to contain:

[0045] Oil Spill Containment Booms: These are designed for containing oil spills on water. They may be categorized further into:

[0046] Surface Booms: Basic booms that float on the water surface, ideal for calm waters or smaller spills.

[0047] Sorbent Booms: Booms that not only contain but also absorb oil. They use materials that soak up oil, making cleanup easier.

[0048] Chemical Spill Containment Booms: These are heavy-duty booms used to contain chemical spills, which may require more robust materials due to the corrosive nature of certain chemicals.

[0049] Key Components of Containment Booms- Effective containment booms include several structural components:

[0050] Flotation: Ensures that the boom floats on the water surface, maintaining a stable barrier against the spill.

[0051] Skirt: The portion of the boom that extends downward into the water to prevent oil from escaping underneath.

[0052] Connectors: Connect individual sections of the boom, allowing for scalability and flexibility in various water conditions.

[0053] Anchors: Hold the boom in place, especially in open water or rough conditions.

[0054] Fairleads: Devices that guide and secure the boom, helping to maintain its shape and orientation.

[0055] Deployment and Planning Considerations- Deploying containment booms effectively requires careful planning. Key factors include:

[0056] Spill Assessment: Estimating the size, type, and spread rate of the spill.
Environmental Conditions: Considering waves, currents, and wind, which may affect the stability and effectiveness of the boom.

[0057] Boom Configuration: Choosing the appropriate length, material, and arrangement based on the spill characteristics and location.

[0058] Deployment Techniques: Methods for quickly and effectively placing the boom in the water, often involving boats or specialized equipment.

[0059] Advantages of Containment Booms- Containment booms offer multiple benefits:

[0060] Environmental Protection: They prevent pollutants from spreading, protecting ecosystems and sensitive areas.

[0061] Cleanup Efficiency: Containing the spill enables faster and more manageable cleanup.

[0062] Cost-Effectiveness: By containing spills early, booms help minimize the resources and time required for cleanup.

[0063] Rapid Deployment: Booms are designed for quick setup, allowing responders to act swiftly.

[0064] Versatility: They can be used in a wide range of scenarios, from small lakes to large ocean spills.

[0065] Challenges and Ongoing Development- Despite their benefits, containment booms face certain challenges:

[0066] Wave and Current Conditions: High waves or strong currents can undermine boom stability, allowing pollutants to escape.

[0067] Spill Size and Type: Large or thick oil spills may overwhelm certain types of booms.

[0068] Environmental Impact: Regular use and disposal of boom materials may affect the environment.

[0069] Maintenance: Booms require periodic maintenance and replacement to remain effective.

[0070] Ongoing research and innovation are focused on improving boom materials, designs, and deployment techniques to enhance their performance under various conditions.

[0071] Oil-Absorbing Sponges: A Green Solution for Oil Spill Cleanup- Oil-absorbing sponges are specially designed porous materials that draw oil into their pores through capillary action. These sponges selectively absorb oil, not water, making them ideal for oil spill cleanup in aquatic environments. They are a sustainable and eco-friendly solution, as they don't rely on chemical dispersants that can further harm the environment.

[0072] Advantages of Oil-Absorbing Sponges- The sponges provide several benefits in oil spill response:

[0073] High Absorption Capacity: They can hold significant volumes of oil, making cleanup more efficient.

[0074] Selective Absorption: Their hydrophobic (water-repelling) and oleophilic (oil-attracting) properties ensure that only oil is absorbed, leaving water behind.
Eco-Friendliness: Often made from biodegradable or recyclable materials, these sponges are less harmful to the environment.

[0075] Ease of Use: They can be easily deployed in spill areas, either manually or attached to booms.

[0076] Types of Oil-Absorbing Sponges- There are different types of sponges used for oil absorption, each with unique material properties:

[0077] Polymer-Based Sponges: Made from synthetic materials designed for high absorption and reusability.

[0078] Natural Fiber Sponges: Biodegradable sponges made from plant fibers, ideal for smaller spills or sensitive environments.

[0079] Composite Sponges: Made from a combination of synthetic and natural materials, providing a balance of durability and eco-friendliness.

[0080] Factors Affecting Effectiveness- Several factors influence the effectiveness of oil-absorbing sponges:

[0081] Porosity: Higher porosity allows for greater absorption capacity.

[0082] Hydrophobicity: Determines how well the sponge repels water, enabling selective oil absorption.

[0083] Surface Area: A larger surface area increases contact with the oil, enhancing absorption speed and efficiency.

[0084] Applications of Oil-Absorbing Sponges- Beyond oil spill cleanup, oil-absorbing sponges have applications in:

[0085] Industrial Settings: Used in machinery maintenance and spill prevention in factories.

[0086] Laboratories: Applied in experiments and handling of oily substances.

[0087] Personal Care: Adapted versions of these sponges are used in personal care products for absorbing oils.

[0088] Challenges and Development Goals- While promising, oil-absorbing sponges face challenges:

[0089] Cost-Effectiveness: Developing sponges with high performance at a reasonable cost remains a challenge.

[0090] Environmental Impact: Some sponges may have a limited lifecycle, requiring careful disposal or recycling. Ongoing research aims to enhance sponge performance, durability, and sustainability, making them an even more valuable tool in environmental protection.

[0091] Step-by-Step Process of the Oil Spill Response System- The diagram illustrates a simplified workflow for an oil spill response system using the containment boom with oil-absorbing sponges.

[0092] Each part of the process is outlined below:

[0093] Ship (Step 1): Source of the Spill- The process begins with the ship, representing a possible source of oil spills. Spills can result from leaks, accidents, or operational discharges. The spill detection system onboard the ship triggers an alert for a rapid response.

[0094] Office Communication (Step 2): Receiving Real-Time Updates- The office or command center receives real-time updates about the spill via sensors or monitoring systems installed on the ship. The data, including spill location and size, is transmitted wirelessly from the ship to the office, allowing responders to assess the situation quickly.

[0095] Workers Coordination (Step 3): Planning the Response- At the command center, workers gather to discuss and coordinate a response plan. They review the information provided, evaluate environmental conditions, and prepare to deploy resources, including the containment boom and oil-absorbing sponges. Proper coordination ensures that the response is swift and effective, reducing potential environmental damage.

[0096] Oil Containment and Cleanup (Step 4): Deployment of the Containment Boom and Sponges- The final step involves the deployment of the containment boom and oil-absorbing sponges at the spill site. The containment boom is deployed around the perimeter of the spill to prevent further spread, while the oil-absorbing sponges actively absorb the oil from the water surface. This dual-action approach not only contains the oil but also removes it from the environment, minimizing the impact on marine and coastal ecosystems.

[0097] This streamlined response system integrates the containment and cleanup phases, ensuring efficient and environmentally friendly handling of oil spills. , Claims:We claim:

1. A containment boom system for oil spill management, comprising:
• a synthetic rubber pipe forming the structural framework of the boom,
• a plurality of 1-liter plastic bottles placed within the synthetic rubber pipe for flotation,
• oil-absorbing sponges attached to the synthetic rubber pipe using fastener tape rolls, wherein the oil-absorbing sponges are made from hydrophobic and oleophilic materials, enabling selective absorption of oil from the water without absorbing water.

2. The containment boom system of claim 1, wherein the synthetic rubber pipe is configured to provide flexibility and durability in various water conditions, including resistance to sunlight, saltwater, and oil exposure.

3. The containment boom system of claim 1, wherein the oil-absorbing sponges are made of porous material that absorbs oil via capillary action, and are reusable after cleaning or replacement.

4. The containment boom system of claim 1, wherein the plastic bottles used for flotation are made from recycled plastic, contributing to the eco-friendliness of the system.

5. A method for containing and absorbing oil from a water surface using the containment boom system of claim 1, comprising the steps of:
• deploying the containment boom system around the perimeter of an oil spill on a water surface to prevent the spread of oil,
• allowing the oil-absorbing sponges to selectively absorb oil from the water surface,
• maintaining the containment boom in place until the oil is sufficiently absorbed and the spill area is cleaned.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising the step of retrieving and cleaning the oil-absorbing sponges after use, enabling reuse of the sponges for subsequent oil spills.

7. The containment boom system of claim 1, wherein the fastener tape rolls enable easy attachment, adjustment, and replacement of the oil-absorbing sponges along the length of the synthetic rubber pipe.

8. The containment boom system of claim 1, wherein the oil-absorbing sponges have a high absorption capacity, absorbing a volume of oil relative to their size, which facilitates rapid cleanup of oil spills in various aquatic environments.

9. A process for responding to oil spills using the containment boom system of claim 1, comprising:
• identifying the location and size of the oil spill,
• coordinating response activities with personnel,
• deploying the containment boom system to encircle the oil spill,
• using the oil-absorbing sponges attached to the boom to actively absorb the oil from the water surface.

10. The containment boom system of claim 1, wherein the boom is adaptable for use in different aquatic environments, including oceans, rivers, lakes, and industrial water systems, and is designed to withstand varying water conditions such as waves, currents, and wind.

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