Prevention and Control of LNG Tanker Spills with Membrane Barrier Systems inside Cargo Tanks. Final Technical Report, October 1981-November 1982

摘要

An investigation to determine the feasibilit of bladder or curtain-type membranes installed within liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo tanks as spill barrier systems is reported. The purpose of the barrier system(s) is to prevent or control spillage of LNG following a breaching of the cargo containment structure of an LNG vessel. The work program included a study of the mechanical and structural feasibility of such systems; the selection of candidate materials and composites and the determination of their mechanical behavior properties at cryogenic temperatures; and an assessment of the effectiveness and costs of such barrier systems. Small-scale model test were conducted to demonstrate the behavior of suspended curtain-type barrier systems to simulated breaching of the cargo tank wall. As a result of this work, the effectiveness of curtain-type spill barrier systems has been proven in principle. Such systems, furthermore, should be applicable and feasible for all types of bulk liquid cargoes whether in mobile or stationary tanks. Further evaluation with larger-scale modelling of cargo tanks, and more detailed study of appropriate barrier materials and barrier deployment and control methods are recommended. (ERA citation 08:013027)