Pneumatic barrier
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A pneumatic barrier is a method of containing oil spills. Air bubbling through a perforated pipe causes an upward water flow that slows the spread of oil. It can also be used to stop fish from entering polluted water.
A pneumatic barrier is an active (as opposed to passive) method of waterway oil spill control. (An example of a passive method would be a boom).
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[edit] Method of operation
The pneumatic barrier consists of perforated pipe and a compressed air source. Air escaping from the pipe provides a "hump" of rising water and air which contains the oil spill. Anchors keeping the pipe in a decided spot are helpful.
[edit] Unique considerations
At water current speeds exceeding one foot per second, the pneumatic barrier no longer functions effectively, limiting deployable sites.
[edit] Environmental issues
The release of compressed air in the water adds oxygen to the local environment. This may be particularly useful in an area which has become a dead zone due to eutrophication.
[edit] Controversy
Like all active systems of any type, a mechanical failure can result in total failure of protection.
