A systematic literature review on the evaporation loss mechanisms and local diffusion characteristics of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from petrochemical storage tanks

Abstract

Hazardous VOCs evaporated from petrochemical storage tanks pose an immediate threat to process safety and environmental health, which has attracted increasing emphasis. Even though a series of source suppression and process safety strategies have been recently implemented to mitigate potential hazards, the practical effectiveness is subject to uncertainties due to the unclear loss and transfer mechanisms, thereby limiting the accurate identification of options and optimizations. Despite its significance, there still lacks a thorough summary of evaporation mechanisms and local diffusion characteristics of VOCs from storage tanks. To further promote loss prevention in the petrochemical storage process, this paper focuses on the relevant literature from multiple perspectives: theoretical models, research methods, major influences, loss evaluation methods, and associated safety concerns. The advantages and limitations of theoretical models and research methods are discussed. The evaporation mechanisms in storage tanks under various major influences are analyzed, and the evaluation methods of evaporation loss are illustrated. The source composition characteristics and active toxic species of evaporated VOCs are identified. The local diffusion characteristics of VOCs from EFRTs, IFRTs and DRTs, dynamic variations with wind and obstacle conditions, and associated flammable and toxic risks are overviewed, respectively. Furthermore, the existing challenges and future research directions are proposed accordingly. This study aims to provide valuable reference and implications for loss prevention and emergency response strategies in the petrochemical storage process.