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, waste drilling muds and drill cuttings in its operations. We have developed a novel method for separating bitumen, oil or other hydrocarbons from sand or soils through the use of ionic liquids (ILs). The separation occurs at ambient temperatures and does not result in the generation of significant quantities of waste process water. A preliminary patent application and a continuation in part describing the use of analogue ILs has been filed by the Penn State Research Foundation (PSRF) and a small company, IL Fuels LLC, founded to develop the technology. The company was granted an exclusive license to the technology from PSRF in exchange for a 5% equity stake. Some investment funds have been raised and a small pilot/demonstration unit built at Penn State. Potential licensees are now using the pilot unit for tests. Conversations with other potential investors and the patent office have been interesting. The presentation will elaborate on the problems we have faced.

Separation of hydrocarbons from sand or other minerals using ionic liquids

246th National Meeting (2013)

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