Abstract
A study of the weathering properties of oil from the Morvin field has been performed. An initial comparison of samples from the Ile and Garn formation was performed and only small differenes in behaviuor were found. The Ile formation was used as an representaive sample from the Morvin field in this weathering study. The data from the laboratory study is used to predict the behaviour of Morvin at sea at different weathering conditions. The weathering properties are discussed in relation to oil spill response both mechanical and chemical dispersionUse of dispersants:There is a general high potential for use of chemical dispersants even after several days of weathering, due to the low viscous and unstable emulsions formed by the Morvin crude. In very rare cases, with very limited emulsification (very calm sea) and high evaporation, dispersant efficiency could be limited by solidification of the oil. Mechanical recovery:Efficiency of mechanical recovery is expected to be high and is not limited by highly viscous emulsions. In very rare cases, with very limited emulsification (very calm sea) and high evaporation, the flow towards the skimmer could be reduced due to solidification of the oil. In such rare scenarios a more “aggressive” skimmer like the High Wax skimmer could be used to increase efficiency.