posted on May, 27 2010 @ 08:38 PM
OK, I am keenly aware of the complexities due to extreme depth, temp. and pressure at this depth. However inasmuch as I can't offer a solution to
STOP the leak, I am suggesting we at least try to minimize it.
In my opinion any solutions which can mitigate the flow at it's source would seem effective before it floats to surface or spreads. My Dad used to
say "never cut what you can untie" and in the spirit of medical terminology "First, do no harm." Both meaning don't exacerbate the problem with
solutions that make it worse. So why not just divert or steer the flow?
Please don't laugh too hard, but think of several big honking "shop vac" type devices.
Easy to deploy and readily available:
[atsimg]http://files.abovetopsecret.com/images/member/5ad88e80d0ec.jpg[/atsimg]
(The stuff on the right comes in 100' lengths, so we'd need only 520 of them per hose)
The hose could be unspooled and carried via ROV and strategically placed in close proximity to the leaks. Once routed to surface, either separated or
taken "as-is" by fleet of tankers/barges to shore for processing. Not sure if the "hydrate" issue would hamper because the oil would be sucked up
and not have a chance to collect as in the "dome."
At least we could catch some of the oil before it spreads. I'm sure there are obvious flaws in this but feel that sometimes simple solutions work
best. Even if the pressure is too severe, just back off and place pick up tubes above source.
[atsimg]http://files.abovetopsecret.com/images/member/2c5164c4afcf.jpg[/atsimg]
I feel helpless when I stare at the gushing oil 24/7 with no effort made to at least divert at source. (easier target)
[edit on 27-5-2010 by kinda kurious]