02/12/2019 Project funded by U.S. Geological Survey

A project, “Modeling the fate and transport of oil-particle aggregates in rivers Phase II: Validation of FluOil”, is funded by U.S. Geological Survey.

After an inland oil spill a lingering problem has been realized that once entered the river, the oil slick breaks down to oil droplets then aggregates with sediment to form oil-particle aggregates (OPAs). OPA concentrations are hazardous to the environment and ecosystem. The density of OPA can be heavier than that of water and OPAs transport in suspension or sink to the bed, and can re-suspend, transport, and redeposit. Unlike the oil sheen, which are visible on the water surface, OPAs transport in the water column, sinking to river bed, especially in the areas where flow velocity is low. Our research aims to advance response efforts through better understanding of the potential impact involving OPAs and develop tools for relieving the challenges in locating OPA deposition areas.