Applications of science and engineering to quantify and control the Deepwater Horizon oil spill

PNAS
By: , and 

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Abstract

The unprecedented engagement of scientists from government, academia, and industry enabled multiple unanticipated and unique problems to be addressed during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. During the months between the initial blowout on April 20, 2010, and the final well kill on September 19, 2010, researchers prepared options, analyses of tradeoffs, assessments, and calculations of uncertainties associated with the flow rate of the well, well shut in, killing the well, and determination of the location of oil released into the environment. This information was used in near real time by the National Incident Commander and other government decision-makers. It increased transparency into BP’s proposed actions and gave the government confidence that, at each stage proposed, courses of action had been thoroughly vetted to reduce risk to human life and the environment and improve chances of success.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Applications of science and engineering to quantify and control the Deepwater Horizon oil spill
Series title PNAS
DOI 10.1073/pnas.1214389109
Volume 109
Issue 50
Year Published 2012
Language English
Publisher National Academy of Sicences
Publisher location Washington, D.C.
Contributing office(s) Office of the Director
Description 7 p.
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title PNAS
First page 20222
Last page 20228
Country United States
State Alabama;Florida;Louisiana;Mississippi;Texas
Additional Online Files (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
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