Process for the removal of organic acids from freshly produced bitumen

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Process for removal of organic acids from bitumen comprising a) Bitumen is diluted with low-density hydrocarbons. b) A dilute solution of caustic soda in water is intimately mixed with the diluted bitumen. c) A demulsifying chemical is added to weaken the interfacial layers between the bitumen phase and the aqueous phase. d) Coalescence between the droplets of the dispersed aqueous phase is achieved in an electrostatic dehydration vessel. Separation between the bitumen and aqueous phase is effected in the vessel. e) The acid-reduced bitumen is removed from the top of the coalescer and the aqueous organic salt solution from its bottom.