BfR-Wissenschaft 
19 
Figure 4.4: Cedre’s flume tank used for the evaluation of oil dispersibility according to weathering under 
controlled conditions. 
Table 4.3: Examples of oils and their dispersion potential 
Type of hydrocarbon 
Response option 
Light refined products 
Example: 
• Gasoline/diesel/kerosene 
Treatment possible, but ineffective 
Hydrocarbons > 2000 cSt (at sea temperature) 
• Weathered light and moderate crudes 
• Heavy crudes (e.g. Boscan, Venezuela) 
• Heavy fuel oils (e.g. Bunker C) 
Dispersion possible 
Paraffinic crudes 
With a pour point greater than the temperature of seawater 
• Bu Attifil (Libya) 
Dispersion impossible 
Figure 4.5: For a given oil, the “window of opportunity” for a potential dispersant treatment can be as 
sessed. IFP dispersibility is determined by following a standardised procedure which is used in the 
French dispersant approval process.