Abstract:
System and method provide a rapid mobilization and deployment technique for effectively mechanically dispersing marine oil spills that either eliminates or reduces the use of chemical dispersants. The disclosed systems and methods work by mechanically generating finely dispersed oil and gas droplets which may improve the dispersion of the hydrocarbons into the water column which can increase the rate of natural degradation of hydrocarbons in the water column.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/578,507 filed Dec. 21, 2012, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    This disclosure relates generally to the field of the exploration and production of hydrocarbons. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a method and system of dispersing hydrocarbons. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    In offshore drilling and production operations, for example, in the event of a blowout, hydrocarbons may be discharged or vented into the surrounding sea water. Chemical dispersing agents, or simply dispersants, are specially formulated chemical products containing surface-active agents and a solvent. Dispersants aid in breaking up hydrocarbon solids and liquids by reducing the interfacial tension between the oil and water, thereby promoting the migration of finely dispersed water-soluble micelles that are rapidly diluted. As a result, the hydrocarbons are effectively spread throughout a larger volume of water, and the environmental impact may be reduced. In addition, dispersants can facilitate and accelerate the digestion of hydrocarbons by microbes, protozoa, nematodes, and bacteria. Moreover, the use of dispersants can reduce the risk to responders at the surface by minimizing the accumulation of oil, associated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hydrocarbon vapors at the surface. Dispersants can also delay the formation of persistent oil-in-water emulsions. 
         [0004]    Traditionally, dispersants have been sprayed onto the oil at the surface of the water. Normally, this process is controlled and delivered from surface vessels or from the air immediately above the oil at the surface. For example, aircraft can be employed to spray oil dispersant over an oil slick on the surface of the sea. For some types of chemical dispersants, the perceived chemical nature of the dispersant itself can present an additional environmental concern. Thus, minimizing the quantity and distribution of dispersants is generally preferred. However, since oil released from a subsea well diffuses and spreads out as it rises to the surface, oil at the surface is often spread out over a relatively large area (e.g., hundreds or thousands of square miles). To sufficiently cover all or substantially all of the oil that reaches the surface, relatively large quantities of dispersant must be distributed over the relatively large area encompassed by the oil slick. 
         [0005]    To minimize “overspray” and limit the application of dispersants to the oil slick itself, distribution at the surface typically involves the visualization of the oil slick at the surface. Accordingly, around the clock surface distribution may not be possible (e.g., at night the location and boundaries of the oil slick at the surface may not be visible). However, there is usually a limited time-frame in which dispersants can be successfully applied at the surface. In particular, certain oil constituents evaporate quickly at the surface, leaving a waxy residue or “weathered” oil that is often unresponsive to dispersants. 
         [0006]    Additionally, some turbulence at the surface (e.g., wave action) is preferred during surface application of dispersants to sufficiently mix the dispersant into the oil and the treated oil into the water. Depending on the weather and sea conditions, surface turbulence may be less than adequate. Moreover, by limiting distribution of dispersants to the surface, only those microbes at or proximal the surface have an opportunity to begin digestion of the oil. 
         [0007]    Chemical dispersants have been applied subsea directly to the source of the leak. However the volume of chemicals required, typically 1%-2% vol:vol of the leaking oil quantity, and the lead time required to manufacture sufficient inventory and establish a robust supply chain increases the response and reaction time to these unpredictable events. Consequently, there is a need for systems and methods of dispersing hydrocarbons subsea that do not exclusively rely on chemical dispersants. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0008]    Implementations of the present disclosure concern systems and methods that provide a rapid mobilization and deployment technique for effectively mechanically dispersing marine oil spills, which can either eliminate or reduce the use of chemical dispersants. The disclosed systems and methods work by mechanically generating finely dispersed oil and gas droplets which may improve the dispersion of the hydrocarbons into the water column which can increase the rate of natural degradation of hydrocarbons in the water column. Dispersing the oil into the water column also can reduce the risk to responders at the surface by minimizing the accumulation of oil, associated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hydrocarbon vapors and can possibly reduce threats of impact to sensitive shoreline habitats and wildlife and increasing the rate of natural degradation of hydrocarbons in the water column. The disclosed methods and systems may be applicable to all liquid hydrocarbon leakages into the environment including releases of crude oil from tankers, offshore platforms, drilling rigs and wells, however its primary benefit likely is for deepwater well blowouts. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0009]    Various features of the implementations can be more fully appreciated, as the same become better understood with reference to the following detailed description of the implementations when considered in connection with the accompanying figures, in which: 
           [0010]      FIG. 1  illustrates a schematic view of an example of an offshore system, according to various implementations. 
           [0011]      FIG. 2  illustrates a schematic view of an example of a BOP and a flex joint after substantial removal of the riser after a subsea blowout, according to various implementations. 
           [0012]      FIG. 3  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of a mechanical dispersion device, according to various implementations. 
           [0013]      FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate a cross-sectional view and a bottom view of another example of a mechanical dispersion device using a rotor-stator mixer, according to various implementations. 
           [0014]      FIG. 5A  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of a mechanical dispersion device using a jet-pump concept, according to various implementations. 
           [0015]      FIG. 5B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of a mechanical dispersion device using a carburetor-venturi concept, according to various implementations. 
           [0016]      FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C illustrate cross-sectional views of another example of a mechanical dispersion device, according to various implementations. 
           [0017]      FIG. 7A  illustrates an example of a deployment of a mechanical dispersion device being installed on a subsea connection, according to various implementations. 
           [0018]      FIG. 7B  illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of a mechanical dispersion device installed on a subsea connection, according to various implementations. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0019]    For simplicity and illustrative purposes, the principles of the present teachings are described by referring mainly to examples of various implementations thereof. However, one of ordinary skill in the art would readily recognize that the same principles are equally applicable to and can be implemented in all types of information and systems, and that any such variations do not depart from the true spirit and scope of the present teachings. Moreover, in the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying figures, which illustrate specific examples of various implementations. Electrical, mechanical, logical and structural changes can be made to the examples of the various implementations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present teachings. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense and the scope of the present teachings is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. 
         [0020]    In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to . . . . ”. Also, the term “couple” or “couples” is intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection may be through a direct connection, or through an indirect connection via other devices, components, and connections, In addition, as used herein, the terms “axial” and “axially” generally mean along or parallel to a central axis central axis of a body or a port), while the terms “radial” and “radially” generally mean perpendicular to the central axis, For instance, an axial distance refers to a distance measured along or parallel to the central axis, and a radial distance means a distance measured perpendicular to the central axis. 
         [0021]    As used herein, the term “ROV” refers to remotely operated vehicle. Each ROV may include arms having a claw, a subsea camera for viewing the subsea operations (e.g., the relative positions of subsea tools or devices such as the mechanical dispersion devices described below), and an umbilical. Streaming video and/or images from cameras are communicated to the surface or other remote location via umbilical for viewing on a live or periodic basis. Arms and claws may be controlled via commands sent from the surface or other remote location to the ROV through the umbilical. 
         [0022]    As used herein, the phrase “mechanical dispersion” or “mechanically dispersed” refers to a dispersion or the formation of a dispersion or mixture without the use of chemical agents or compositions. 
         [0023]      FIG. 1  illustrates an example of an offshore system  100  for drilling and/or producing a wellbore  101 , according to various implementations. While  FIG. 1  illustrates various components contained in the offshore system  100 ,  FIG. 1  is one example of an offshore system and additional components can be added and existing components can be removed. 
         [0024]    As illustrated, the offshore system  100  can include an offshore platform  110  that is located at the sea surface  102 . The offshore system  100  can include a subsea blowout preventer (BOP)  120  that is mounted to a wellhead  130  at the sea floor  103 . The offshore system  100  can include a subsea connection (e.g. a flex joint)  140 . The offshore platform  110  can be equipped with a derrick  111  that supports a hoist. A drilling riser  115  can extend from the platform  110  to the subsea riser connection  140 . The riser  115  can be a large-diameter pipe that connects the subsea riser connection  140  to the offshore platform  110 . During drilling operations, the riser  115  can take mud returns to the offshore platform  110 . 
         [0025]    The BOP  120  can be configured to controllably seal and contain hydrocarbon fluids therein. The BOP  120  can includes a plurality of axially stacked sets of opposed rams—opposed blind shear rams or blades  127  for severing a tubular string and sealing off wellbore from the riser  115 . The BOP  120  can also include opposed blind rams  128  for sealing off wellbore when no string or tubular extends through main bore  124 . The BOP  120  can include opposed pipe rams  129  for engaging a string and sealing the annulus around a tubular string. Each set of the rams  127 ,  128 ,  129  can be equipped with sealing members that engage to prohibit flow through the annulus when rams  127 ,  128 ,  129  are closed. 
         [0026]    In implementations, the subsea riser connection  140  can include a riser flex joint  143  that allows the riser  115  to deflect angularly relative to the BOP  120  and the subsea riser connection  140  while hydrocarbon fluids flow from the wellhead  130  and the BOP  120  into the riser  115 . The flex joint  143  can include a cylindrical base  144  that is rigidly secured to the BOP  120 . The flex joint  143  can also include a riser extension or adapter  145  extending upward from the base  144 . A flex element can be disposed within the base  144  that extends between the base  144  and the riser adapter  145 . The flex element can sealingly engage both the base  144  and the riser adapter  145 . The flex element can allow the riser adapter  145  to pivot and angularly deflect relative to the base  144 , the subsea riser connection  140 , and the BOP  120 . The upper end of the adapter  145  distal the base  144  can include an annular flange  145   a.  The annular flange  145   a  can couple the riser adapter  145  to a mating lower riser flange  118  at the lower end of the riser  115  or to alternative devices. Although the subsea connection  140  has been shown and described as being a particular flex joint  143 , in general, any suitable riser connection can be employed. 
         [0027]    In some situations, the offshore system  100  can begin leaking hydrocarbon into the environment around the offshore system  100 .  FIG. 2  illustrates an example of leaking hydrocarbon during a blowout, according to various implementations. While  FIG. 2  illustrates one example of a leaking situation in the offshore system  100 , the methods and system described herein can be applied to any type of leaking situation in the offshore system  100 . 
         [0028]    As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , during a “kick” or surge of formation fluid pressure in the wellbore, one or more the rams  127 ,  128 ,  129  of the BOP  120  and/or the subsea riser connection  140  can be actuated to seal in the wellbore. In some cases, the rams  127 ,  128 ,  129  may not seal off the wellbore, resulting in a blowout. Such a blowout can damage the BOP  120 , the subsea riser connection  140 , the riser  115 , the offshore platform  110 , or combinations thereof. Damage to the BOP  120 , the subsea riser connection  140 , or the riser  115  can compromise the ability to contain the hydrocarbon fluids therein, potentially resulting in the discharge of the hydrocarbon fluids into subsea. The example of the blowout, illustrated in  FIG. 2 , can be due to failure or malfunction of the rams  127 ,  128 ,  129 . In example, the BOP  120  has failed and upper portion of the riser  115  has been removed forming severed riser  115   a.  As a result, hydrocarbon fluids pass through the BOP  120  and the subsea riser connection  140 , and are discharged into the surrounding sea water. The emitted hydrocarbons fluids form a subsea hydrocarbon plume  160 . 
         [0029]    In implementations, a mechanical dispersion device can be utilized to disperse the subsea hydrocarbon plume  160 .  FIG. 3  illustrates an example of a mechanical dispersion device  300 , which installed over the severed riser  115   a , according to various implementations. While  FIG. 3  illustrates various components contained in the mechanical dispersion device  300 ,  FIG. 3  is one example of a mechanical dispersion device and additional components can be added and existing components can be removed. 
         [0030]    As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the mechanical dispersion device  300  can include a body  301 , a motor  310 , and an impeller  320 . The body  301  can include inlets  303  through which water enters dispersing chamber  302 . The body  301  can include outlets  305  through which a hydrocarbon dispersion or emulsion can exit the dispersing chamber  302 . The body  301  can be constructed in any suitable geometry such as without limitation, cylindrical, cubical, frustroconical, or the like. Furthermore, the body  301  can also have an opening  307  through which a flexjoint, subsea connection, or riser can be inserted. In other words, the opening  307  can be adapted or configured to fit over an existing subsea connection or tubular, such as the severed riser  115   a,  or to fit over a hydrocarbon leak corning directly through the sea floor. 
         [0031]    The body  301  can include an upper section  301   a  where the outlets  305  can be disposed. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the upper section  301   a  can be tapered. The upper section  301   a  can also be configured in any suitable geometry. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the body  301  via the motor  310  can be coupled to a riser  304  which can be coupled to a surface vessel. The riser  304  can be any tubular or device to connect the mechanical dispersion device  300  with surface. The riser  304  can provide a conduit for power, whether electrical or hydraulic, to mechanical dispersion device  300 . 
         [0032]    The inlets  303  and the outlets  305  can be of any shape and/or size. in some implementations, the inlets  303  and the outlets  305  can have the same shape and size. In some implementations, the inlets  303  and the outlets  305  can have different shapes and/or sizes one another. Likewise, each inlet  303  can be the same or different shape and/or size from one another and each outlet  305  can be the same or different shape and/or size from one another. The mechanical dispersion device  300  can include any number of the inlets  303  and the outlets  305  disposed along the body  301 . In some implementations, the outlets  305  can be disposed proximate to the motor  310  or on the upper section  301   a . The inlets  303  and the outlets  305  can be disposed in any configuration or position along body  301 . In addition, the inlets  303  and the outlets  305  can be adjustable remotely from the surface or locally with remotely operated vehicle (ROV). 
         [0033]    The motor  310  can be disposed proximate the outlets  305 . For example, the motor  310  can be any suitable device which is capable of driving or rotating the impeller  320  with sufficient force and velocity to generate an emulsion of hydrocarbons into the sea water, in other words, the motor  310  can drive or rotate the impeller  320  with sufficient force and velocity to generate very small droplets of hydrocarbons or bubbles or hydrate crystals in the sea water matrix. In implementations, the motor  310  can be an electrical motor, a hydraulic motor, and the like. 
         [0034]    The impeller  320  can have a shaft  321  and a plurality of radial members  323 . The radial members  323  can be any propellers, blades, turbines, rotating, contra-rotating or stationary or combinations thereof that are known to those of skill in the art. in particular, the impeller  320  can have more than one set  324  of the radial members  323  disposed along the length of the shaft  321 . Each set  324  of the members  323  can have the same or different types of the radial members  323 . The dispersion device  300  can also have one or more static members  308  which extend radially into the chamber  302 . The static members  308  can be interleaved or overlapping with the radial members  323  of the impeller  320 , The static members  308  can be of the same shape and size as the radial members  323  or different. 
         [0035]    The impeller  320  can have several functions, although not necessarily limited to these that will be described. The first function can be to suck or force water through the inlets  303  and/or the opening  307  into the chamber  302 . Simultaneously or near simultaneously, the second function of the impeller  320  can be to agitate, disperse and/or mix the hydrocarbons  160  that are being emitted from the severed riser  115   a  such that either a hydrocarbon/water dispersion or emulsion is formed. The impeller  320  can also serve to drive the dispersion and/or emulsion through the outlets  305  into the surrounding water. 
         [0036]    In some implementations, the mechanical dispersion device  300  can include just the impeller  320  and the motor  310  without the body  301 . That is, the mechanical dispersion device  300  can comprise the impeller  320  or any other type of agitator known to those skilled in the art and any type of motor to rotate the impeller  320 . 
         [0037]    In some implementations, chemical dispersants can be used in conjunction with the examples of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. For example, chemical dispersants can be injected into dispersing chamber of the mechanical dispersion device  300 . In this example, one or more injectors can be located along the interior of the body  301  in the dispersing chamber  302 . The injectors can be positioned within and/or outside the mechanical dispersion device to allow the chemical dispersants to be introduced to the hydrocarbon/water mixture. Any chemical dispersants known to those of skill in the art cam be used. 
         [0038]    In some implementations, hydrate prevention measures can be implemented. For example, hydrate prevention chemicals can be introduced into or around any of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. One or more injectors can be positioned within or around the mechanical dispersion device  300  to deliver hydrate prevention chemicals at any location hydrocarbons can collect. For example, one or more injectors can be positioned in the opening  307 , the inlets  303  and the outlets  305 . The introduction of the hydrate prevention chemicals can be continuous or intermittent. The hydrate prevention chemicals can include nitrogen and or other hydrate preventions chemicals such as without limitation, methanol. 
         [0039]    In operation of the mechanical dispersion device  300  illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the mechanical dispersion device  300  can installed over hydrocarbon plume  160  and the severed riser  115   a  as will be described in more detail below. The impeller  320  is driven by motor  310  at a rotational speed. The impeller  320  can be driven at rotational speeds ranging from about 1000 rpm to about 4000 rpm, alternatively from about 500 rpm to about 2000 rpm. More particularly, the impeller  320  can be rotated a tip speed ranging from about 10 m/s to about 30 m/s, Likewise, the impeller  320  can be rotated at any suitable rotational speed. As the impeller  320  is rotated, the impeller  320  can suck hydrocarbons from the hydrocarbon plume  160  emerging from the severed riser  115   a  into the chamber  302 . The concentrated hydrocarbons are cut and sheared into droplets by the rapid rotation of the radial members  323  of the impeller  320  to form a dispersion of hydrocarbons and water. The static members  307  can also contribute to the shearing and dispersion effect. The hydrocarbon and water dispersion may then be emitted from one or more of the outlets  305  into the environment. Due to the droplet size caused by the mechanical agitation, the mechanically dispersed hydrocarbons may be less likely to reach the surface, thereby reducing the chance of hydrocarbon field (e.g. oil slick) forming on the surface. 
         [0040]      FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate another example of a mechanical dispersion device  400 , which installed over the severed riser  115   a,  according to various implementations. While  FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate various components contained in the mechanical dispersion device  400 .  FIGS. 4A and 4B  illustrate one example of a mechanical dispersion device and additional components can be added and existing components can be removed. 
         [0041]    As illustrated in  FIG. 4A , the mechanical dispersion device  400  can utilize a rotor stator type mixer. This type of mixer can also be referred to as a high shear mixer. Instead of the impeller  320 , as shown in  FIG. 3 , the mechanical dispersion device  400  can utilize a rotor  402 . As illustrated in  FIG. 4B , the rotor  402  can have a plurality of slots or openings  404 . The rotor  402  can also include blades or teeth optimally configured to shear hydrocarbons. The rotor  402  can have any configuration known to those of skill in the art. In particular, the rotor  402  can be rotatably disposed within stationary stator or body  406 . The stator can also have a plurality of slots or openings  408 . In operation, the rotor  402  rotates within stator  406  at a speed suitable to shear hydrocarbons. The shearing effect emulsifies and/or disperses the hydrocarbons, which can pass through the opening  408  into the surrounding environment. 
         [0042]    The rotor  402  can be driven by a motor  410 . The motor  410  can be coupled to the rotor  402  by a drive shaft  412 . The drive shaft  412  can be disposed within a housing  414 . The housing  414  can be coupled to the stator  406 . The mechanical dispersion device  400  can be coupled to a riser  416 . The riser  416  can be any tubular or device to connect the mechanical dispersion device  400  with surface. The riser  416  can provide a conduit for power, whether electrical or hydraulic, to mechanical dispersion device  400 . 
         [0043]    In some implementations, chemical dispersants can be used in conjunction with the examples of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. For example, chemical dispersants can be injected into mixing area of the mechanical dispersion device  400 . In this example, one or more injectors can be located along the interior or exterior of the rotor  402  and/or the stator  406 . The injectors can be positioned within and/or outside the mechanical dispersion device to allow the chemical dispersants to be introduced to the hydrocarbon/water mixture. Any chemical dispersants known to those of skill in the art can be used. 
         [0044]    In some implementations, hydrate prevention measures can be implemented. For example, hydrate prevention chemicals can be introduced into or around any of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. One or more injectors can be positional within or around the mechanical dispersion device  400  to deliver hydrate prevention chemicals at any location hydrocarbons can collect. For example, one or more injectors can be positioned on the interior or exterior of the rotor  402  and/or the stator  406 . The introduction of the hydrate prevention chemicals can be continuous or intermittent. The hydrate prevention chemicals can include nitrogen and or other hydrate preventions chemicals such as without limitation, methanol. 
         [0045]      FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate another example of a mechanical dispersion device  500 , which installed over the severed riser  115   a,  according to various implementations. While  FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate various components contained in the mechanical dispersion device  500 ,  FIGS. 5A and 5B  illustrate one example of a mechanical dispersion device and additional components can be added and existing components can be removed. 
         [0046]    The mechanical dispersion device  500  can be configured utilizing pumping concepts in order to disperse the hydrocarbon. As illustrated in  FIG. 5A , in some implementations, the mechanical dispersion device  500  can utilize a jet pump or eductor-type mechanism. As illustrated in  FIG. 5B , in some implementations, the mechanical dispersion device can utilized a carburetor-venturi concept. In particular, the mechanical dispersion device  500  can include a housing  501 , a water injection nozzle  510 , a mixing chamber  503 , a hydrocarbon inlet  502 , a throat inlet  530 , a throat portion  535 , a throat outlet  537 , and a device outlet  540 . The water injection nozzle  510  can have a convergent geometry. That is, an inlet  510   a  can have a larger cross-sectional area than an outlet  510   b  of the injection nozzle  510 . The mixing chamber  503  can be disposed in between the water injection nozzle  510  and the throat inlet  530 . The hydrocarbon inlet  502  can be in fluid communication with the mixing chamber  503 . As shown in  FIG. 5A , the hydrocarbon inlet  502  can have a divergent geometry much like a funnel. Likewise, the hydrocarbon inlet  502  can have any suitable configuration or geometry. In addition, the hydrocarbon inlet  502  can be configured or adapted to couple with the severed riser  115   a  or other subsea conduit or device. Furthermore, the water injection nozzle  510  can be in fluid communication with the mixing chamber  503 . The mixing chamber  503  can also be in fluid communication with throat inlet  530 . 
         [0047]    Further, as illustrated in  FIG. 5A , the throat inlet  530  can have a convergent geometry such that its cross-sectional area decreases as it couples with the throat portion  535 . In other words, the throat inlet  530  can be a nozzle. The throat outlet  537  can in fluid communication with the throat portion  535  and can have a diverging geometry. That is, the cross-sectional area of the outlet  537  can increase. As will be described in more detail below, the convergent-divergent geometry of the throat inlet  530  and the outlet  537  utilizes the Venturi effect to suck in the hydrocarbons from the hydrocarbon plume  160 . In some implementations, as illustrated in  FIG. 5B , a device  545  can be shaped like a venturi of a carburetor. The hydrocarbons may be sucked through several restrictions distributed around the circumference of a narrow passage in the venturi. 
         [0048]    in implementations, as illustrated in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , the mechanical dispersion device  500  can include one or more dispersion structures  540 . The dispersion structures  550  can serve to further break up or disperse the hydrocarbon mixture emitted from throat outlet  537 . The dispersion structures  550  can include without limitation dispersion screens, filters, grates or impeller-like devices. The dispersion structures  550  can be disposed in between the throat outlet  537  and the device outlet  540 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , the device outlet  540  can have divergent geometry. Likewise, the device outlet  540  can have any suitable geometry. 
         [0049]    In some implementations, chemical dispersants can be used in conjunction with the examples of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. For example, chemical dispersants can be injected into dispersing chamber of the mechanical dispersion device  500 . in this example, one or more injectors can be located along the interior of the housing  501  and/or the device outlet  540 . The injectors can be positioned within and/or outside the mechanical dispersion device to allow the chemical dispersants to be introduced to the hydrocarbon/water mixture. Any chemical dispersants known to those of skill in the art can be used. 
         [0050]    In some implementations, hydrate prevention measures can be implemented. For example, hydrate prevention chemicals can be introduced into or around any of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. One or more injectors can be positioned within or around the mechanical dispersion device  500  to deliver hydrate prevention chemicals at any location hydrocarbons can collect. For example, one or more injectors can be positioned in the hydrocarbon inlet  502 . The introduction of the hydrate prevention chemicals can be continuous or intermittent. The hydrate prevention chemicals can include nitrogen and or other hydrate preventions chemicals such as without limitation, methanol. 
         [0051]    In operation of the mechanical dispersion device  500 , water from the surrounding environment can be pumped at high pressure through the housing  501 . The mechanical dispersion device can utilize the Venturi effect of a converging-diverging nozzle to convert the pressure energy of a motive fluid, in this case, water, to velocity energy which creates a low pressure zone that draws in and entrains a suction fluid, the hydrocarbons from the hydrocarbon plume  160  emitted from the severed riser  115   a.  The low pressure zone may be created in the mixing chamber  503  where hydrocarbons can be sucked into the mixing chamber  503  through the hydrocarbon inlet  502 . Accordingly, water (e.g. seawater) can be injected through the housing  501  by a pump. Water can be injected at a pressure ranging from 100 psi to about 10,000 psi, alternatively from about 200 psi to about 5000 psi, alternatively from about 500 psi to about 3000 psi. The hydrocarbons and water can be mixed together in the mixing chamber  503  and then enter the throat inlet  530 . Due to the convergent geometry of the throat inlet  530 , the pressure of the hydrocarbon/water mixture can be increased. After passing through the throat portion  535  portion and out the throat outlet  537 , the mixed water/hydrocarbon fluid expands at the throat outlet  537  and the velocity is reduced which results in recompressing the mixed water/hydrocarbon fluid by converting velocity energy back into pressure energy. The hydrocarbon/water mixture then passes through the dispersion structure  550  causing a dispersion  570  to be formed. The dispersion  570  can then be expelled through the device outlet  540 . 
         [0052]      FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C illustrate another example of a mechanical dispersion device  600 , according to various implementations. While  FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C illustrate various components contained in the mechanical dispersion device  600 ,  FIGS. 6A ,  6 B, and  6 C illustrate one example of a mechanical dispersion device and additional components can be added and existing components can be removed. 
         [0053]      FIG. 6A  illustrates the mechanical dispersion device  600  being positioned in proximity to the severed riser  115   a,  according to various implementations. As illustrated in  FIG. 6A , the mechanical dispersion device  600  can include an enclosed body  602 , a motor  604 , and an impeller  606  that is located in a dispersing chamber  608 . The body  602  can include one or more intake hoses  610  through which water and/or hydrocarbons can enter the dispersing chamber  608 . The body  602  can include one or more output hoses  612  through which a hydrocarbon dispersion or emulsion can exit the dispersing chamber  602 . The body  602  can be constructed in any suitable geometry such as without limitation, cylindrical, cubical, frustroconical, or the like. 
         [0054]    The body  602  can include an upper section  602   a  where the output hoses  612  can be disposed. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 6A , the upper section  602   a  can be tapered. The upper section  602   a  can also be configured in any suitable geometry. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 6A , the body  602  via the motor  604  can be coupled to a riser  614  which can be coupled to a surface vessel. The riser  614  can be any tubular or device to connect the mechanical dispersion device  600  with surface. The riser  614  can provide a conduit for power, whether electrical or hydraulic, to mechanical dispersion device  600 . 
         [0055]    The intake hoses  610  can be coupled to the body  602  by throttling valves  616 . The throttling valves  616  can be configured to control the amount of water and/or hydrocarbons that are entering the dispersion chamber  608 . As such, the throttling valves  616  can be utilized to control the ratio of hydrocarbons and water within the dispersion chamber  608 . The output hoses  612  can be coupled to the body  602  by throttling valves  618 . The throttling valves  618  can be configured to control the amount of hydrocarbon dispersion or emulsion that exits the dispersion chamber  608 . As such, the throttling valves  618  can be utilized to control the amount of time the hydrocarbon dispersion or emulsion remains in the dispersion chamber  608 . The throttling valves  616  and the throttling valves  618  can be any type of valves that can open and close to control the flow of fluids into and out of the dispersion chamber  608 , such as mechanical valves, electro-mechanical valves, hydraulic valves, and the like. 
         [0056]    The intake hoses  610  and the output hoses  612  can be of any shape, length and/or size. In some implementations, the intake hoses  610  and the output hoses  6125  can have the same shape, length, and size. In some implementations, the intake hoses  610  and the output hoses  612  can have different shapes, lengths, and/or sizes one another. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 6A , the intake hoses  610  can be of different lengths in order to address multiple hydrocarbon leaks. Likewise, each intake hoses  610  can be the same or different shape, length, and/or size from one another and each the output hose  612  can be the same or different shape and/or size from one another. 
         [0057]    The mechanical dispersion device  600  can include any number of the intake hoses  610  and the output hoses  612  disposed along the body  602 . In some implementations, the output hoses  612  can be disposed proximate to the motor  604  or on the upper section  602   a.  The intake hoses  610  and the output hoses  612  can be disposed in any configuration or position along body  602 . In addition, the intake hoses  610  and the output hoses  612  can be adjusted and positioned remotely from the surface or locally with remotely operated vehicle (ROV). 
         [0058]    The motor  604  can be any suitable device which is capable of driving or rotating the impeller  606  with sufficient force and velocity to generate an emulsion of hydrocarbons into the sea water. In other words, the motor  604  can drive or rotate the impeller  606  with sufficient force and velocity to generate very small droplets of hydrocarbons or bubbles or hydrate crystals in the sea water matrix. In implementations, the motor  604  can be an electrical, motor, a hydraulic motor, and the like. 
         [0059]    The impeller  606  can have a shaft and a plurality of radial members  620 . The radial members  620  can be any propellers, blades, turbines, rotating, contra-rotating or stationary or combinations thereof that are known to those of skill in the art. In particular, the impeller  606  can have more than one set of the radial members  620  disposed along the length of the shaft. Each set of the radial members  620  can have the same or different types of the radial members  620 . The mechanical dispersion device  600  can also have one or more static members  622  which extend radially into the chamber  608 . The static members  622  can be interleaved or overlapping with the radial members  620  of the impeller  606 . The static members  622  can be of the same shape and size as the radial members  620  or different. 
         [0060]    The impeller  606  can have several functions, although not necessarily limited to these that will be described. The first function can be to suck or force water through the intake hoses  610  into the dispersion chamber  608 . Simultaneously or near simultaneously, the second function of the impeller  606  can be to agitate, disperse and/or mix the hydrocarbons of the hydrocarbon plumes  160  that are being emitted from the severed riser  115   a  or the BOP  120  such that either a hydrocarbon/water dispersion or emulsion is formed. The impeller  606  can also serve to drive the dispersion and/or emulsion through the output hoses  612  into the surrounding water. 
         [0061]    In some implementations, chemical dispersants can be used in conjunction with the examples of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. For example, chemical dispersants can be injected into dispersing chamber  608  of the mechanical dispersion device  600 . In this example, one or more injectors can be located along the interior of the body  602  in the dispersing chamber  608 ; within or around the throttling valves  618 ; and/or within or around the output hoses  612 . The injectors can be positioned within and/or outside the mechanical dispersion device to allow the chemical dispersants to be introduced to the hydrocarbon/water mixture. Any chemical dispersants known to those of skill in the art cam be used. 
         [0062]    In some implementations, hydrate prevention measures can be implemented. For example, hydrate prevention chemicals can be introduced into or around any of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. One or more injectors can be positioned within or around the mechanical dispersion device  600  to deliver hydrate prevention chemicals at any location hydrocarbons can collect. For example, one or more injectors can be positioned within or around the intake hoses  610  and/or within or around the throttling valves  618 . The introduction of the hydrate prevention chemicals can be continuous or intermittent. The hydrate prevention chemicals can include nitrogen and or other hydrate preventions chemicals such as without limitation, methanol. 
         [0063]    In operation of the mechanical dispersion device  600  illustrated in  FIG. 6A , the mechanical dispersion device  600  can installed near the severed riser  115   a  as will be described in more detail below. One or more of the intake hoses  610  can then be positioned near the hydrocarbon plumes  160  in order to suck hydrocarbons into the dispersion chamber  608 . Likewise, one or more of the intake hoses  610  can be positioned away from the hydrocarbon plumes in order to suck water into the dispersion chamber. The impeller  606  can be driven by motor  310  at a rotational speed. For example, the impeller  606  can be driven at rotational speeds ranging from about 1000 rpm to about 4000 rpm, alternatively from about 500 rpm to about 2000 rpm. More particularly, for example, the impeller  606  can be rotated a tip speed ranging from about 10 m/s to about 30 m/s. Likewise, the impeller  606  can be rotated at any suitable rotational speed. As the impeller  606  is rotated, the impeller  606  can suck hydrocarbons from the hydrocarbon plumes  160  into the dispersion chamber  608 . The concentrated hydrocarbons are cut and sheared into droplets by the rapid rotation of the radial members  620  of the impeller  606  to form a dispersion of hydrocarbons and water. The static members  622  can also contribute to the shearing and dispersion effect. The hydrocarbon and water dispersion may then be emitted from one or more of the output hoses  612  into the environment. Due to the droplet size caused by the mechanical agitation, the mechanically dispersed hydrocarbons may be less likely to reach the surface, thereby reducing the chance of hydrocarbon field (e.g. oil slick) forming on the surface. 
         [0064]    As mentioned above, the mechanical dispersion device  600  can be placed in proximity of the severed riser  115   a.    FIG. 6B  illustrates another example of the mechanical dispersion device  600  being placed on the seafloor near a hydrocarbon plume  160  leaking from the seafloor, according to various implementations. As illustrated, the mechanical dispersion device  600  can be placed on the seafloor. One or more of the intake hoses  610  can be positioned within the proximity of the hydrocarbon plume  160  in order to suck the hydrocarbons into the mechanical dispersion device  600 . While  FIG. 6B  illustrates the mechanical dispersion device  600  being placed on the seafloor, the mechanical dispersion device  600  can be positioned on any structure near the hydrocarbon plume  160 . 
         [0065]    In some implementations, as illustrated, a collection device  650  can be positioned over the hydrocarbon plume  160 . The collection device  650  can be configured in a concave shape or similar shape to create a hydrocarbon collection area  652 . One or more of the intake hoses  610  can be placed within or near the hydrocarbon collection area  652  in order to suck the hydrocarbons into the mechanical dispersion device  600 . The collection device  650  can be constructed of any material that is capable of collecting the hydrocarbons in the hydrocarbon collection area  652 . For example, the collection device  650  can be formed of fabric, metals, metal alloys, plastic, and the like. As illustrated, the collection device  650  can be shaped in a substantially concave shape. Likewise, the collection device  650  can be formed in an irregular concave shape. For example, the collection device  650  can be formed in an irregular concave shape that flannels the hydrocarbons towards the hydrocarbon collection area  652 . 
         [0066]    The collection device  650  can be coupled to one or more weights  656  by one or more tethers  654 . The weights  656  can be configured to rest on the seafloor in order to hold the collect on device  650  in position over the hydrocarbon plume  160 . The tethers  654  can be any type of device that attaches to the weights  656  such as cables, chains, and the like. While  FIG. 6B  illustrates the collection device  650  being maintained in positioned by tethers  654  and weights  656 , any type of coupling system can be utilized to maintain the position of the collection device  650 . 
         [0067]      FIG. 6C  illustrates another example of the mechanical dispersion device  600  being utilized with the collection device  650 , according to various implementations. As illustrated in this example, the collection device  650  can be placed over the hydrocarbon plume  160  in order to cover or “blanket” the hydrocarbon plume  160 . For example, as illustrated, the collection device  650  can be formed of a flexible material, for example, one or more fabrics. In this example, the collection device  650  can be secured in place by the one or more weights  656  being placed on the perimeter of the collection device  650 . As the hydrocarbon plume  160  exits the seafloor and contacts the collection device  650 , the hydrocarbon collection area  652  can be formed. While  FIG. 6C  illustrates the collection device  650  can be maintained in position over the hydrocarbon plume  160  by the one or more weights  656 , any type of coupling system and/or weighting system can be utilized to maintain the position of the collection device  650 . 
         [0068]    In implementations, one or more of the intake hoses  610  can be positioned within or near the hydrocarbon collection area  652  in order to suck the hydrocarbons into the mechanical dispersion device  600 . For example, as illustrated, one or more of the intake hoses  610  can be coupled or can pass-through holes or ports in the collection device  650 . Likewise, one or more of the intake hoses  610  can be passed under the perimeter of the collection device  650  in order to be positioned within or near the hydrocarbon collection area  652 . 
         [0069]    While the collection device  650  can be a flexible material, for example, one or more fabrics, as illustrated in  FIG. 6C , the collection device  650  can be constructed of any material that is capable of collecting the hydrocarbons in the hydrocarbon collection area  652 . For example, the collection device  650  can be formed of one or more metals, metal alloys, and/or plastics. In this example, the collection device  650  can be formed in a concave shape, such as a dome, in order to form the hydrocarbon collection area  652 . Further, in this example, the collection device  650  can be maintained in position over the hydrocarbon plume  160  by the one or more weights  656 , the weight of the collection device  650 , and/or any type of coupling system and/or weighting system. 
         [0070]    in some implementations, chemical dispersants can be used in conjunction with the examples of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. For example, chemical dispersants can be injected into dispersing chamber  608  of the mechanical dispersion device  600  and/or the hydrocarbon collection area  652 . In this example, one or more injectors can be located along the interior of the body  602  in the dispersing chamber  608 ; within or around the throttling valves  618 ; and/or within or around the output hoses  612 . The injectors can be positioned within and/or around the collection device  650  to allow the chemical dispersants to be introduced to the hydrocarbon collection area  652 . Any chemical dispersants known to those of skill in the art cam be used. 
         [0071]    In some implementations, hydrate prevention measures can be implemented. For example, hydrate prevention chemicals can be introduced into or around any of the mechanical dispersion devices described above and/or within or around the hydrocarbon collection area  652 . One or more injectors can be positioned within or around the mechanical dispersion device  600  and/or within or around the collection device  650  to deliver hydrate prevention chemicals at any location hydrocarbons can collect. The introduction of the hydrate prevention chemicals can be continuous or intermittent. The hydrate prevention chemicals can include nitrogen and or other hydrate preventions chemicals such as without limitation, methanol. 
         [0072]    In implementations, any of the mechanical dispersion device illustrated in  FIGS. 3 ,  4 A,  5 A,  58 ,  6 A, and  6 B can be used in combination in order to provide multiple devices to break-up hydrocarbons. For example, the mechanical dispersion device  300  and the mechanical dispersion device  500  can be combined for a synergistic dispersion effect where the water/hydrocarbon mixture corning from the device outlet  540  can be routed by way of a conduit or other means to mechanical dispersion device  300 . For instance, the mechanical dispersion device  300  can be coupled directly to the device outlet  540 . Likewise, for example, the mechanical dispersion device  400  can be positioned near the device outlet  540  for a synergistic dispersion effect where the water/hydrocarbon mixture coining from the device outlet  540  is further processed by the mechanical dispersion device  400 . Further, for example, the mechanical dispersion device  600  and the mechanical dispersion device  500  can be combined for a synergistic dispersion effect where the water/hydrocarbon mixture coming from the device outlet  540  can be routed by way of a conduit or other means to mechanical dispersion device  300 . For instance, the mechanical dispersion device  600  can be coupled directly to the device outlet  540 . 
         [0073]    In implementations, for example as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the mechanical dispersion device  300  can be controllably lowered subsea with a riser  304  secured to mechanical dispersion device  300  and extending to a surface vessel. Due to the weight of mechanical dispersion device  300 , the riser  304  can be preferably relatively strong (e.g., steel cables) capable of withstanding the anticipated tensile loads. A winch or crane mounted to a surface vessel can be employed to support and lower the mechanical dispersion device  300  on the riser  304 . Although the riser  304  can employed to position the mechanical dispersion device  300 , in other implementations, the mechanical dispersion device  300  can be deployed subsea on a cable, pipe, drill string, and the like. 
         [0074]      FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate an example of a process by which the mechanical dispersion device  300  can be lowered adjacent or laterally offset to the hydrocarbon plume  160  and the subsea riser connection  140  in order to avoid formation of hydrates. More particularly, using riser  304 , the mechanical dispersion device  300  can be lowered subsea under its own weight from a location generally above and laterally offset from the subsea riser connection  140 . More specifically, during deployment, the mechanical dispersion device  300  can be positioned outside of plume  160  of hydrocarbon fluids. One or more ROVs  700  can be used to assist in deploying and/or the mechanical dispersion device  300  around hydrocarbon plume  160  and/or subsea riser connection  140 . 
         [0075]    As illustrated in  FIG. 7B , once the mechanical dispersion device  300  has been lowered adjacent to the hydrocarbon plume  160 , the mechanical dispersion device  300  can be moved laterally over the hydrocarbon plume  160  and over the severed riser  115   a.  The mechanical dispersion device  300  can then be activated to begin dispersion of the hydrocarbon plume  160 . Likewise, the mechanical dispersion device  300  can activated prior to engagement of the mechanical dispersion device  300  with severed riser  115   a  so as to facilitate suction of hydrocarbons into the mechanical dispersion device  300 . The mechanical dispersion device  300  can remain suspended or deployed over the hydrocarbon plume  160  to disperse hydrocarbons until a permanent capping system or collecting device can be deployed. 
         [0076]    In implementations, the deployment of the mechanical dispersion device  400 , the mechanical dispersion device  500 , and/or the mechanical dispersion device  600  can substantially mirror that of the mechanical dispersion device  300 . In addition, although examples of the mechanical dispersion device and processes have been described with respect to the mechanical dispersion device being positioned with respect to a severed riser  115   a,  any of the mechanical dispersion devices or combinations of the mechanical dispersion devices can be positioned proximate or adjacent any subsea structure that emits hydrocarbons such as without limitation, a wellhead, a BOP, a sea floor leak, and the like. 
         [0077]    In some implementations, chemical dispersants can be used in conjunction with the examples of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. For example, chemical dispersants may be injected into mixing chamber  503  of the mechanical dispersion device  500 . Likewise, chemical dispersants can be the mechanical dispersion device  300  injected into the chamber  302  of the mechanical dispersion device  300 . Any chemical dispersants known to those of skill in the art cam be used. In some implementations, hydrate prevention measures can be implemented. For example, hydrate prevention chemicals can be introduced into or around any of the mechanical dispersion devices described above. The introduction of the hydrate prevention chemicals can be continuous or intermittent. The hydrate prevention chemicals can include nitrogen and or other hydrate preventions chemicals such as without limitation, methanol. 
         [0078]    While the teachings have been described with reference to examples of the implementations thereof, those skilled in the art will be able to make various modifications to the described implementations without departing from the true spirit and scope. The terms and descriptions used herein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as limitations. In particular, although the method has been described by examples, the steps of the method may be performed in a different order than illustrated or simultaneously. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “including”, “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with”, or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description and the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” As used herein, the terms “one or more of” and “at least one of” with respect to a listing of items such as, for example, A and B, means A alone, B alone, or A and B. Further, unless specified otherwise, the term “set” should be interpreted as “one or more.” Those skilled in the art will recognize that these and other variations are possible within the spirit and scope as defined in the following claims and their equivalents.