Deepwater provides new model

There are many questions about the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and lots to learn from it. A predictive model has now been created and is described in the Environmental Engineering Science, a peer reviewed journal.

Researchers and environmentalists are more familiar with common surface spills. The Deepwater Horizon spill presented new and unique variables for study. It was the first spill to release large amounts of oil at significant depth, more than 5,000 feet below the surface. It was also the first spill to use chemical dispersants directly by incorporating them into the oil as it was released into the environment from the wellhead. As a result of these new experiences, it’s hard to predict what the impact of the spill will be.

Enter the researchers and model makers. Chemical engineers Louis Thibodeaux and Kalliat Valsaraj, Louisiana State University, and Vijay John, Kyriakos Papadopoulos, Lawrence Pratt and Noshir Pesika, Tulane University have developed a new computer model based on the experienced of Deepwater Horizon to help with any future catastrophes. It should be useful for risk assessment and decision-making during a crisis.

“This important article by well-respected researchers looks at one of the nation’s worst environmental disasters. Based on their many years of experience, they provide valuable retrospective insights as well as suggestions for the future developmental needs to ensure that the Deepwater Horizon spill remains an unfortunate and isolated event,” according to Domenico Grasso, PhD, University of Vermont.

Source: Genetic Engineering News, ScienceDaily