Using biodiesel cleanup agents to reduce impacts on mangroves and tidal wetland ecosystems from oils spills (2010-2012)

This project will specifically assess the effectiveness and consequences of using palm oil biodiesel and coconut oil biodiesel as cleaning agents during and after a large oil spill in tidal wetland and mangrove environments. These two biodiesels are both comprised of primarily short carbon chain fatty acids, making them even more biodegradable than other biodiesels. Both biodiesels are unsaturated fatty acids that improve biodegradability. Coconut biodiesel has a vey low viscosity assisting penetration of oiled substrates that otherwise retain oil. The project will lead to more efficient clean up of oil spills with less environmental harm. The outcome will be a clear empirically based cleanup protocol of commercial value to Australia.