Asphaltenes are heavy carbon molecules found in petroleum that dissolve in toluene but not pentane or heptane. They are extracted through a refining process and used in paving operations. Asphaltenes are subject to oxidation to remove impurities and are shipped to contractors for paving. They pose challenges for oil crews as they can plug spaces between rocks and formwork holes. Lighter petroleum contains fewer asphaltenes, while tar sands contain the most.
Asphaltenes are a type of carbon molecule found in petroleum. This heavy, tar-like substance is often considered bottom of the barrel, meaning it’s among the muddy byproducts that remain after crude oil is distilled. To help distinguish these molecules from other oil components, scientists define asphaltenes as any petroleum product that dissolves in toulene, but does not dissolve in pentane or heptane solutions. Once they undergo a refining process, asphaltenes serve as a vital material in global paving operations.
While asphaltenes are always present in oil, they have to undergo a great deal of processing before they can be extracted from oil. After a barrel of oil has undergone distillation, the lighter or cleaner oils are sent for further refinement and processing. The by-products of the sludge go through a process known as deasphalting. In a deasphalt remover, the sludge is put into a solvent solution to separate the various materials. After deasphalting, the asphaltenes are removed for further processing, leaving behind various oil resins, which are often used as lubricants or grease.
Asphaltenes are then subject to oxidation, which removes impurities and helps refine these molecules. During this process, air is blown over the asphaltene molecules to enhance their natural properties. Any impurities extracted during this process represent a form of waste and are sent for disposal. The remaining material can then be reheated and shipped to contractors and flooring companies. By mixing hot asphalt with gravel, paving crews can create paved roads, parking lots, and runways.
Not all crude oil deposits contain the same volume of asphaltenes. Lighter, cleaner petroleum contains a smaller percentage of these molecules, which often helps simplify distillation and refining. The thickest and heaviest reserves of petroleum, such as tar sands or tar sands, generally contain the most asphaltenes.
Despite the many benefits these molecules offer in terms of cheap and effective paving, they pose many challenges for oil crews as they work to extract oil from the ground. When oil is extracted from petroleum-bearing rocks, known as shales, asphaltenes and other viscous materials can plug the spaces between the rocks, making it very difficult to extract the oil. The same goes for traditional formwork holes, which can easily become clogged if large quantities of asphaltenes are present. Generally, these molecules create major problems at sites where light oil is tapped. They are less challenging for crews digging for oil or tar sands.
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