The deposition of an aerially applied dispersant is defined as the amount of an aerially applied dispersant that contacts the surface; whereas, application dosage (frequently referred to as application rate) is the amount of material that is released per unit area by the delivery system. The units of deposition are litres per hectare or U.S. gallons per acre. The deposition may differ from the application dosage (volume of material per unit area) for many reasons, such as, the effects of wind on the spray and the evaporation of the dispersant after it has been released from the aircraft.

This test method describes the measurement of the ability of a spray system to deposit a dispersant on oil. It is not intended that this test method be used at the time of a spill. These techniques are intended to determine the equipment performance during the development of new systems and after the repair or significant modification of a system.

The data obtained from the use of this test method can be directly related to the deposition of dispersant on an oil slick, and thus can serve to determine both the dispersant deposition and the droplet size.

Dispersant deposition and droplet size data can be used as a technical basis for the optimization of dispersant application equipment and its use.

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the deposition of an aerially applied dispersant on the surface of the ground or water. The test method of obtaining these measurements is described, and the analysis of the results, in terms of dispersant use, is considered. There are a number of techniques that have been developed, and this test method outlines their application. These measurements can be used to confirm or verify the specifications of a given equipment set, its proper functioning, and use.

1.2 This test method is applicable to systems used with helicopters or airplanes.

1.3 This test method is one of four related to dispersant application systems. Guide F1413 covers design, Practice F1460 covers calibration, Test Method F1738 covers deposition, and Guide F1737 covers the use of the systems. Familiarity with all four standards is recommended.

1.4 There are some exposure and occupational health concerns regarding the methods described. These are not discussed in this test method since they are a function of dispersant formulation. Anyone undertaking such experiments should consult the occupational health experts of the dispersant manufacturer regarding the precautions to be used.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.