Oil spill recovery with magnetically retrievable sorbents preliminary performance report of MAG-1 a 24-foot magnetic type recovery vessel for light oils

A portable oil spill recovery vessel which incorporates magnetic principles for the retrieval process was completed in the spring (1977). Developed by the University of South Florida with support from the Florida Sea Grant Program and Gulf-Tampa Drydock Company, the concept adds a new dimension to sorbent recovery techniques. An integral part of the project was the laboratory research required to obtain the optimum formulation for a magnetically retrievable sorbent material. The following properties were considered to be most vital for the "ferrofoam" product: (1) High magnetic force to weight ratio. (2) Positive flotation on water. (3) Discriminative absorption of oil vs. water even after extended periods of use. (4) High percent of oil retention in saturated foam prior to wringing; low percent oil retention after wringing. (5) No significant loss of physical characteristics after continued wringing. (6) Harmless to marine life and ocean ecology. The optimization study was completed in August 1976 and work was then started to design and construct the necessary equipment to generate suitable amounts of the optimal product for use in tests with the recovery vessel. Details of "ferrofoam" production and of the test procedures employed to analyze the essential operational functions of the recovery unit are presented with the aid of photographs, figures and tables. Sorbent requirements, oil recovery rates, limitations and a cost to benefit analysis are discussed in detail.