20120009017 | OIL SPILL RECLAMATION SYSTEM - An oil spill reclamation system utilizes an elastomeric foam functionalized to exhibit both oleophilic and hydrophobic properties. The foam material is contained in permeable pods connected to each other in a chain to form a boom strung in a closed loop around the oil spill. As each pod is brought into contact with the spilled oil, the foam material absorbs it to saturation. The pods are linked through an inflated flexible hose that ensures their buoyancy. The chain of pods is continuously processed in one or more barges that include equipment to press the absorbed oil out of each pod and a conveyor system for retrieving the pods from the water, pulling them through the press, and returning them to the water in a continuous cycle of operation. Positioning buoys with vertical rollers are used to retain the general shape of the containment loop defined by the continuous boom. | 01-12-2012 |