Operational Test of a Sensor to Detect Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) in Ship Bilge Water
Abstract
A sensor system was developed to detect the presence of foam producing chemicals. The sensor was primarily developed to detect the presence of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) in bilge water off-loaded from a ship to a shore-side wastewater treatment plant. The foam sensor uses a combination of photo-optical and acoustic range measuring devices to determine the density and height of a column of foam produced by aeration of the wastewater sample. These data are used to estimate the concentration of AFFF in the wastewater sample. The sensor system can detect concentrations of AFFF as low as 10 parts per million (ppm) in approximately 45 seconds. Solutions containing higher concentrations of AFFF are detected in less time. When the concentration of AFFF exceeds a preset value, a switch within the sensor system is closed. The switch closure can be used to perform functions such as: * Operating a valve to divert the contaminated wastewater stream to a storage tank * Closing a valve to the lift station sump to prevent further discharge by the ship * Alert treatment plant operators to take corrective action, such as diluting the incoming steam to lower the concentration of AFFF.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA398568
Entities
People
- Brad Hollan
- Richard E. Kirts
Organizations
- Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center