Choix de products pour lutter contre la pollution du milieu marin par les hydrocarbures. II. Efficacite des products antipetrole.

Standard methods were used to assess the effectiveness of 101 products for use against oil slicks. Products were emulsifiers, agglomerants or precipitants and were tested against oil from Edjele, Kuwait and Syria. For each kind of product, a review is given of the previous tests, the choice of methods is discussed, the methodology is described, and results are presented and interpreted. In addition, the relationship between physical properties and effectiveness is discussed, with graphical examples and the advantages and disadvantages are indicated. It is concluded that at present no 'miracle' product exists for use in this field. Agglomerating powders would be ideal were it not for problems in putting them to use, and, wind because of the need to use them as very fine powders. Emulsifiers are the most easily used, in the most varied circumstances, but their eventual toxicity remains a problem.