Separation of hydrocarbons from tar sands froth
US4648964A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 30, 1985 |
| Grant date | Mar 10, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 30, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC10G1/047
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A process suitable for separating the hydrocarbon fraction from a tar sands froth is provided. The process comprises heating a fluid stream comprising the froth to above about 300.degree. C., pressurizing the stream to above about 1000 psig and separating the hydrocarbon fraction, having less than 1 percent solids and less than 5 percent water, from the treated stream. Separation is preferably by gravitational settling in a settler and occurs substantially instantaneously. The heat/pressure treatment can be optionally followed by addition of a diluent, such as naphtha. The pressure is preferably produced by the hydrostatic head of a column of froth.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.