[en] An alternative or supplement to the mechanical recovery of oil spilled at sea, was discussed. In certain oil spill situations, dispersant (or surfactant) treatment could play an active role in the cleanup process. Laboratory and flume studies were conducted to evaluate how a skimmer's recovery rate of various emulsified oils was influenced by the addition of a low efficiency dispersant prior to mechanical treatment. The purpose of using dispersants is to remove spilled oil from the surface by conversion into small droplets, at a faster rate than occurs naturally. Normally, dispersant applications disperse the treated oil into the water column within 1 to 3 hours after treatment. However, dispersant treatment can result in a slower oil dispersion rate (up to several days) due to insufficient dispersant being used, too low surface energy conditions, or too high degree of weathering of the oil. Studies showed that contrary to some expert opinion, a low efficiency dispersant treatment will not have a negative influence on the later mechanical recovery of oil. 13 refs., 2 tabs., 9 figs