Organic coated solids in athabasca bitumen: Characterization and process implications

Bitumen, separated from oil sands by the hot water extraction process, contains ultra-fine (< 200 nm), inorganic solids (BS). Surfaces of BS particles are coated with toluene insoluble organic matter (TIOM). This organic material is polar and aromatic with contributions from both humic and asphaltene-like components. Although the surfaces of BS particles are dominated by TIOM, the coverage is patchy rather than continuous. As a result, these solids are capable of stabilizing fine water emulsions in the bitumen phase. The nature of the organic matter on the surfaces of the particles is such that it has a high propensity to form coke. Therefore, these particles can also play a role in fouling on equipment and catalysts.