Author(s)

E. Palazzi, F. Currò & B. Fabiano

Abstract

The study of dispersion and transformations following an open sea oil spill has been faced by several authors, on the basis of mathematical models of different complexity, so as to quantify the different phenomena involved in the release evolution: convective transport by sea currents, possibly in connection with wind action; turbulent diffusion; buoyant action on dispersed particles; wave action; superficial spreading of the oil due to different density between sea water and hydrocarbon; evaporation and emulsification rates. Dealing with a release in a port area, besides the environmental consequences, the most severe hazards are linked to fires and explosions due to the formation of a flammable cloud by evaporated hydrocarbons and air and subsequent ignition. If a cloud

Keywords