Process to separate inorganic sludges containing non-volatile hydrocarbons

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A process that can break down mixtures of water solids, non-volatile hydrocarbons and other accompanying substances into their primary constituents employs solvent extraction such that the water, which is to be recycled does not contain, any solids at all. The process makes it possible to process and break down oil-bearing sludge that accumulates during the hot water process of tar sands extraction and which is stored, in settling ponds and constitutes a permanent danger to the environment. The process lowers the proportion of solids in the recycled water to nearly zero, which permits sedimentation within a reasonably short period of time. The process is environmentally friendly and …