AGENTS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR AMELIORATION OF DISCHARGES OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS ON WATER

Readily available chemical agents and methods advantageous for the amelioration of discharges of 30 representative chemicals on water were identified and evaluated. Existing devices advantageous for amelioration of spills of 8 floating hazardous chemicals were itemized and evaluated. Sorbents with high potential to ameliorate discharges of 13 miscible/soluble representative hazardous chemicals were identified and evaluated. Experimental tests performed supported evaluations made on the basis of information form literature search, consultations with contemporary researchers and industry representatives. Agents discussed for the representative 30 hazardous chemicals included sorbents, ion exchangers, precipitators, neutralizers, oxidizers, reducers, dispersers, collectors, solvents for extraction, coagulators chelators, gelling agents, biodegradation enhancers, sinking agents and forced dilution with water. Major conclusions were: that use of chemical agents for amelioration of discharges on water is feasible for 29 representative hazardous chemicals and the most versatile type of agent was sorbents, and that certain containment and collection devices, developed for oil spill control may be suitable, as manufactured or easily modified, for use in ameliorating discharges of representative floating hazardous chemicals. (Author)