A containment boom is a temporary floating barrier used to contain an oil spill. Booms are used to reduce the possibility of polluting shorelines and other resources, and to help make recovery easier. Booms help to concentrate oil in thicker surface rather than disperse across larger areas. [1] Booms are also used to prevent ice jams. [2]
Oil containment booms are available in several designs, each suited to specific spill conditions and operational needs. The main types include: [8]
These booms use closed-cell foam or plastic floats encased in UV-stabilized PVC for buoyancy. They are lightweight, cost-effective, and quick to deploy, making them suitable for a wide range of water conditions from calm harbors to moderate offshore currents. However, they may have a shorter service life in rough waters. [8]
Fence booms feature flat, rigid floats and an integrated chain ballast for stability. Constructed from heavy-duty PVC or similar materials, they are durable and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for long-term use in calm or low-current waters such as harbors and marinas. Their heavier weight can make deployment more challenging compared to solid flotation booms. [8]
Inflatable or air-filled booms are designed for rapid deployment during emergency spills. Stored compactly and inflated on-site, they offer high buoyancy-to-weight ratios and are used in both offshore and inshore environments. These booms require regular inspection to ensure readiness for immediate use. [8]
Curtain booms combine features of oil containment and silt control. They include a floating section similar to standard booms and an extended curtain below the waterline to trap oil and suspended sediment. This type is often used in marine construction areas or environments where both oil and particulate containment are required. [8]
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