Rim seal flammable liquid storage tank

Abstract

A rim seal for a flammable liquid storage tank is provided. The rim seal forms a vapor impermeable barrier with passive fire-suppressing capabilities provided by layers of buoyant members that suppress flammable vapors to prevent fires. The buoyant and fire-retardant members are contained within a closed flexible membrane. The closed flexible membrane contains one or more layers of the buoyant members. The closed flexible membrane and the buoyant members therein extend across the gap formed between an outer circumferential edge of a floating roof and the inner wall of the liquid storage tank. The buoyant members form the layers under the influence of gravity. The buoyant members are formed from a material which is resistant to hydrocarbon degradation, and which is flame retardant and vapor suppressing. The layers of the buoyant members form a passive fire protective barrier between the flammable liquid in the storage tank and the atmosphere.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.