Weathering and dispersant testing

IPL’s weathering and dispersant testing of crude oil plays an important role in minimising risks associated with potential oil spills. 

Weathering

IPL has customised an MNS (Mackay/Nadeau/Steelman) test rig that simulates the weathering processes under controlled conditions (wind/wave action, air/water temperature). To help predict the fate of the oil in an open ocean spill, physical and chemical oil properties are tested at set intervals (0, 12, 24 and 48 hours). Tests include:

- Asphaltenes
- Pour Point
- Viscosity
- Flash Point
- Evaporation
- Wax Content
- Water Content


Dispersant testing

IPL uses a Labofina/Warren Spring Laboratory Rotating Flask Test Rig and WSL LR448 methodology to test the efficiency of dispersants on both fresh and weathered oil as well as testing of dispersant stockpiles. Testing predicts which dispersants may be effective in the event of a spill.

In New Zealand, weathering and dispersant testing is required as part of the Discharge Management Plan for all offshore oil exploration. 

other related services

Oil and Gas Testing Services


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Crude Assay for O&G Explorers


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Crude Assay for O&G Producers


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