Organic coated solids in athabasca bitumen: Characterization and process implications

Bitumen, separated from oil sands by the hot water extraction process, cont ains ultra-fine (< 200 nm), inorganic solids (BS). Surfaces of BS particles are coated with toluene insoluble organic matter (TIOM). This organic mate rial is polar and aromatic with contributions from both humic and asphalten e-like components. Although the surfaces of BS particles are dominated by T IOM, the coverage is patchy rather than continuous. As a result, these soli ds are capable of stabilizing fine water emulsions in the bitumen phase. Th e nature of the organic matter on the surfaces of the particles is such tha t it has a high propensity to form coke. Therefore, these particles can als o play a role in fouling on equipment and catalysts.