What is the specific gravity range of most petroleum products, and why is it critical?

Most petroleum products typically have a specific gravity of less than 1.0, which means they will float on water. This characteristic is critical for several reasons.

First, when assessing potential contaminant transport in the event of a release, understanding the buoyancy of petroleum products helps in predicting how they will move in the environment, particularly in relation to groundwater and surface water systems. Since many water bodies contain a specific gravity of 1.0, products with a lower specific gravity will naturally rise and create a layer on the water's surface.

Additionally, knowing that petroleum products float can inform cleanup strategies. If a leak occurs, containment measures must be put in place that account for the fact that the product will not mix with water, allowing for specific recovery methods that are better suited to floating materials.

The characteristic of specific gravity being less than 1.0 is fundamentally important in environmental assessments, regulatory compliance, and hazard evaluations within the context of underground storage tank management.