The separation or extraction of hydrocarbons such as oil and bitumen from soil, sand, or other forms of mineral matter is a difficult and expensive process that also results in environmental problems associated with the disposal of waste products. For example, the separation of bitumen from tar or oil sands involves large amounts of energy and water. The process water generated in the separation is toxic to aquatic life and is a major environmental problem. Similarly, the oil and gas industry has to deal with oil-contaminated sand or other oil coated waste streams, diesel coated drill cuttings, etc., in its operations. We have developed a novel method for separating bitumen, oil or other hydrocarbons from sand, soils or other particulate matter through the use of ionic liquids. The separation occurs at ambient temperatures and does not result in the generation of waste process water.

Separation of hydrocarbons from sand and other minerals using ionic liquids

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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