Scientists test giant fire tornado to clean oil spills faster and with less smoke

Scientists from Texas A&M and UC Berkeley conducted the first large-scale test of fire whirls to clean offshore oil spills, creating spinning tornado-like flames that burn nearly twice as fast as traditional methods. Using a 17-foot triangular structure to control airflow, the fire whirls consumed 95% of fuel while producing 40% less toxic soot than conventional burning. This breakthrough offers a faster, cleaner alternative that could prevent oil from reaching sensitive marine habitats.