Dissolution of petroleum-derived products in water

A series of controlled experiments were performed to determine the quantitative magnitude and the physical nature involved in the transfer of organic materials from an oil film into an aqueous solution. Various lubricating and fuel oils and gasolines were used to study such a transfer over a period of 42 days. It was discovered that substantial quantities of organic matter can be introduced into an aqueous solution as a result of contact between the oil film and the water. After an initial stable period of 4–24 days, the acceleration of oil to water transfer takes place. The increase in the rate of oil film dissolution is probably associated with chemical changes in the composition of the oil film, most likely induced by oxidation, leading to the formation of oxidated water soluble material. The significance of results of this study is examined in terms of practical requirements for design of bilge and ballast wastewater treatment equipment. It appears that such wastewaters could contain substantial quantities of dissolved organic matter. In addition to undissolved oil, as a result of prolonged contact between oil and water. It is suggested that designers of wastewater treatment equipment to be used on-board ships and oil tankers, should consider the removal of dissolved, as well as undissolved, petroleum derived organic matter.