Spill response essentials: oil classification, weathering and movement
Oil spills don’t behave the same way—because oil itself is not one uniform substance. This short video explores the key characteristics of different oil types and how those properties affect their movement, behaviour and environmental persistence during a spill.
Whether the oil is light and volatile or heavy and persistent, understanding its properties is essential for accurate modelling, effective response, and environmental protection.
In this video, you’ll learn:
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The classification of oil types (Group I to IV) based on persistence
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How properties like viscosity, density, and volatility affect spill behaviour
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The influence of environmental factors (wind, waves, temperature) on oil fate
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How oil characteristics inform containment, recovery and clean-up approaches
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Why oil weathering matters in spill response
