In a collaboration between the Port of Saint-Tropez, Phare Vert refuelling station and The Searial Cleaners, the InvisiBubble system has been deployed at the port in France to manage hydrocarbon leaks during routine fuel handling operations.

Hydrocarbon leaks in port environments can occur during refuelling due to nozzle drips, tank overflows or maintenance residues. In semi-closed waters with limited exchange, these substances can remain in the area and form a surface layer or mix into the water column and sediments.

The InvisiBubble technology uses a bubble curtain formed by perforated pipes or hoses placed on the seabed and connected to an air compressor. Air is released through these pipes and rises through the water column, creating a continuous barrier of bubbles around the refuelling zone.

Users can activate the system using a push button, which triggers the bubble curtain to create an internal current within the area. This keeps hydrocarbons such as fuel, engine oil and grease close to where they enter the water, reduces their spread across port waters and makes collection easier.

Images courtesy of The Searial Cleaners.