Pristine Sea I is a unique patented material (a natural clay) that has been chemically treated. The clay, when applied to hydrocarbons found floating on the water, immediately begin a chemical reaction - solidifying the oil and breaking up the oil slick into oil cakes as pictured in our brochure and video. As the solidification process continues, the oil cakes become semisolid, yet remaining soft and pliable, allowing none of the oil to escape into the water column or settle on the bottom. The cakes will remain afloat until recovered by mechanical or other means.