Oil Types and Their Effects

When an oil spill occurs, there are various factors that determine the impact of the spill on

the environment. The most important of all is the type of oil spilled. There are four different

types of oil, namely light, volatile oils; non-sticky oils; heavy, sticky oils; and nonfluid oils,

which cause adverse environmental effects when spilled.

• Light, Volatile Oils –These types of oil are highly volatile and highly fluid. They

have a strong odor, high evaporation rate, and high concentrations of toxic

compounds that are soluble. The toxic compounds present in these oils can affect

humans, fish, and other biota. Though they do not stick to surfaces, they penetrate

porous surfaces such as dirt and sand. If the oil has not penetrated the surface, it

can be removed by flushing with water. Jet fuels, gasoline, and most refined

products are examples of light, volatile oils.

• Non-sticky Oils – When compared to light, volatile oils, these types of oil are less

toxic and adhere to the surface more firmly than them. Oil spill cleanup can be done

by vigorous flushing. No.2 fuel oil, diesel, and light crudes fall under this category.

• Heavy, Sticky Oils – These oils are viscous, sticky, or tarry and have little or no

evaporation or dissolution properties. Even though the toxicity is low, wildlife such as

waterfowls and fur-bearing mammals face the risk of smothering or drowning. Oil

spill cleanup is also quite difficult. No.6 fuel oil, heavy crude oils, and bunker C are a

few examples of heavy oils.

• Nonfluid Oils – These types of oils are relatively non-toxic than others. They also

don’t penetrate porous substances. Cleanup of these types of oil is effective when

done immediately. But, when they come into contact with heat they tend to melt and

coat surfaces making the cleanup task extremely difficult. Examples of these types of

oil are residual oils, most crude oils, and some high paraffin oils.

Oil Gone Easy S-200 is an oil stain remover that is capable of degrading any kind of oil. It

also works on any kind of surface.