PRODUCTS
Gladiator is a unique silicone-based liquid for the control of oil spills on water.
Gladiator spreads across the water surface, pushing the oil away and consolidating it on the surface. Its spreading action is very strong: it will keep spreading across a large water body until it forms a thin film on the surface.
By applying Gladiator at appropriate locations around a spill, the oil can be concentrated for easy collection by booms or skimmers.
Why is Gladiator so Special?
Gladiator has a very low surface tension, which translates into a strong spreading pressure, and hence it is an effective means of concentrating oil.
Another feature of Gladiator is that its viscosity remains stable over a wide temperature range. For example in icy waters the handling and spreading characteristics of Gladiator will not be significantly affected.
Some Typical Applications
Gladiator can be applied in any situation where an oil slick has spread across the water surface.
It is most effective when applied on opposite sides of a slick so as to compress the oil into a narrow band for collection by a skimmer or other suitable equipment.
For oil spills in fairly confined spaces such as a dock location, we recommend that Gladiator is trickled along the edge of a slick in such a way as to direct the oil away from obstructions. It is easier to collect the concentrated oil from open water than from around piers, bollards and other obstructions.
Gladiator is most effective in calm waters, but it can also be beneficial in rougher waters. In these conditions, it should be applied in a location where the wind and tidal pressures will help it to spread towards the slick. A second application should be made at the other side of the slick. Whilst this may not actually push the oil against the wind and/or tidal forces, it will assist in forming a barrier against further spreading.
Can it be Applied at the Shoreline?
If applied from a shoreline, Gladiator can be an effective ‘last line of defence’ against an advancing oil slick. In addition, wave action will coat pebbles and rocks with a thin film of Gladiator, helping to prevent any oil from adhering.
Application Rates and Equipment?
The appropriate application rate depends on many factors including the thickness of the slick, the nature of the oil, the surface conditions of the water and weather conditions.
Our trials have indicated that a rate of about 10 ml of Gladiator per lineal metre of oil spill (1 fluid ounce per 10 lineal feet) can be used as a general guide.
On larger spills, this equates to about 10 litres per lineal kilometre, or 4 gallons per lineal mile.
Gladiator can simply be poured on to the water – spray equipment is not required.
What about the Impact on the Environment?
Gladiator is non-toxic. It forms an almost invisible film on the surface. Being very thin, the film does not affect the activities of birds or other aquatic life.