Separation of hydrocarbons from tar sands froth

Abstract From the Canadian patent

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°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.