Presentation
Aquatic Fate and Effects of Herders
SessionMeet the Poster Authors
DescriptionWhen an oil spill occurs, there are four main oil spill response options: mechanical recovery, chemical dispersion, in-situ burning and natural attenuation. In-situ burning is the controlled incineration of a surface oil slick. Ignition of a floating oil slick can only occur if the slick’s thickness is ≥ 2 mm due to the massive heat loss that occurs with the underlining seawater. Booms and chemical herding agents can be used to corral oil to achieve the required thickness. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to document the state-of-science surrounding the environmental fate and biological effects of herders, identified research needs and developed new data to address knowledge gaps. Main knowledge gaps were noted around the need for establishing acute toxicity thresholds for the two chemical herders listed in the USEPA National Contingency Plan Project Schedule: THICKSLICK 6535 and SILTECH OP-40 and evaluating chronic toxicity thresholds. Knowledge gaps were addressed by performing standardized chronic toxicological testing on algae and Ceriodaphnia dubia using internationally recognized protocols. This poster will summarize the chemical and physical properties of THICKSLICK 6535 and SILTECH OP-40, including their biodegradation potential, bioaccumulation and aquatic toxicity to over 30 different aquatic species. These data will provide an environmental realistic hazard assessment to assist steak holders with communicating the environmental risks of chemical herder application for in-situ burning.
Authors
Event Type
Poster
TimeMonday, May 13th5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
LocationExhibit Hall G
Preparedness
Prevention
Remediation
Response
Restoration