BIOLOGICAL METHODS
Surfactant Clean Up
Surfactant agents aim to disperse the oil from the top layer of the ocean into small oil chunks. This in turn allows ocean bacteria to break down the oil much faster and more effectively. The surfactant solution includes chemicals found in everyday soaps and detergents can be delivered by plane or boat. The only issue with this method is that the chemicals damage coral reefs and other aquatic plants. [1]
BioDegradation
Biodegradation agents are used on the shorelines to accelerate the natural break down of oil. The mixture is similar to fertilizers which promote microorganism growth and activity. The microorganisms can break down the oil naturally because they thrive on land. The mixture is sprayed onto infected areas by a pump and is solely for use on land. [3]
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[1] http://www.nalco.com/applications/oil-spill-dispersants.htm
[2]http://www.itopf.com/spill-response/clean-up-and-response/dispersants/[3] http://www.bio-tec.com/resources/what-is-biodegradation.html
[4]http://www.alaska-in-pictures.com/clean-up-workers-on-oil-spill-10882-pictures.htm
[2]http://www.itopf.com/spill-response/clean-up-and-response/dispersants/[3] http://www.bio-tec.com/resources/what-is-biodegradation.html
[4]http://www.alaska-in-pictures.com/clean-up-workers-on-oil-spill-10882-pictures.htm