Innovative Bitumen Extraction Processes and Systems for Oil Sands

Strategic Insights -

Recently published patent WO/2011/082209 from the World Intellectual Property Organization details novel processes and systems for solvent extraction of bitumen from oil sands. Inventors from ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company and other institutions have outlined a method that employs fines agglomeration to simplify subsequent separation, ultimately producing a high-quality bitumen product. This invention addresses the complexities of bitumen extraction, which has significant implications for oil sands processing and pipeline requirements.

Key Takeaways:

  • The patent proposes a solvent extraction process for bitumen from oil sands using fines agglomeration to simplify separation.
  • The method involves combining a first solvent and a bituminous feed to form an initial slurry, which is optionally separated into fine solids and coarse solids.
  • Slurry solids are agglomerated, and a low solids bitumen extract is mixed with a second solvent having a similar or lower boiling point, resulting in a high-grade bitumen product.
  • The process includes a mixbox, agglomerator, separator unit with optional countercurrent washer and deep cone settler, and TSRU.
  • The invention allows for fractionating a hydrocarbon fluid into heavier and lighter fractions, with the lighter fraction potentially used for solvent extraction of bitumen.
  • Inventors include ADEYINKA, Olusola, B.; SPEIRS, Brian, C.; ESMAEILI, Payman; PIERRE, Fritz, Jr.; RHODES, Alan; GLANZ, Werner; and MYERS, Ronald, D.

Statistics:

  • Application No. PCT/US2010/062312 was filed on December 29, 2010.
  • The patent was published on July 7, 2011, as WO/2011/082209.
  • The process involves the use of a second solvent with a boiling point "similar or lower" than the first solvent.
  • The patent proposes exemplary systems comprising a mixbox, agglomerator, separator unit, and TSRU.

Sources:

  • World Intellectual Property Organization (http://www.wipo.int)
  • Publication No. WO/2011/082209
  • Application No. PCT/US2010/062312