Influence of high asphaltene feedstocks on processing

Abstract

Asphaltene constituents are, by definition, a solubility class that is precipitated from petroleum, heavy oil and bitumen and therefore do not have a single, unique structure or specific molecular weight. When dispersed in petroleum, asphaltene constituents appreciably increase petroleum viscosity and adversely affect the productivity of oil wells and/or the means of refining. Owing to the changes in the composition of petroleum as well as variations of temperature, pressure, petroleum (a dynamic stable system) may be disturbed and asphaltene constituents are likely to be precipitated. The purpose of this review is to examine the methods by which asphaltene deposition can be predicted or determined and hence methods by which deposition can be mitigated. Copyright © 2007, Institut français du pétrole.