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It is called a “black tide” to the mass of oil spilled into the sea , in the shape of a stain, of great extension, which endangers the fauna and flora of the sea. In addition, its dispersion reaches coasts and beaches, which becomes one of the most serious forms of pollution. In this AgroCorrn article we explain everything you need to know about oil slicks .

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Negative effects of oil slicks

The negative effects of oil spills are:

  • Lack of oxygenation , due to the oil film that floats on top of the sea.
  • Death of marine organisms , due to direct toxicity.
  • Destabilization of buoyancy .
  • Loss of heat-insulating power of animals , caused by impregnation of feathers and hair.

Evolution of the oil slick

The evolution of an oil slick responds to some common parameters:

  • The most volatile elements evaporate during the first day.
  • A small part dissolves and can be assimilated by organisms.
  • The most hydrophobic part produces emulsions known as ” chocolate mousse “, which later oxidizes .
  • A part precipitates to the bottom with the sediments and is buried .
  • A part is degraded by microorganisms present in the sea.

How to reduce environmental impact

To minimize the environmental impact, different methods are used :

  • The mechanical collection.
  • Combustion (although it is the least indicated because it causes intense atmospheric pollution).
  • The pouring of detergent to make possible the dispersion of the crude oil.
  • Causing the sinking of crude oil, favoring integration in the sediment.
  • Favoring the action of certain microorganisms that degrade the components of oil, providing them with the food they need to grow.
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