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Polynuclear aromatic systems in petroleum

Conference · · Am. Chem. Soc., Div. Pet. Chem., Gen. Pap., Prepr.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6788880
Polynuclear aromatic systems occur naturally in a variety of forms but one source which is often not recognized is petroleum. The higher molecular weight fractions of petroleum have a higher degree of aromaticity than the lower molecular weight fractions. In fact, the fraction known as asphaltenes is believed to contain highly complex polynuclear aromatic systems (references). The object of this paper is to briefly review the evidence that has been produced for the occurrence of polynuclear aromatic systems in petroleum asphaltenes and the degree of condensation of the aromatic ring systems. New data are also presented which provide indications of the ring-size distribution in petroleum asphaltenes. The evidence is accumulated by asphaltene fractionation and subsequent examination of the fractions by high performance liquid chromatography using an ultraviolet detector.
Research Organization:
Western Research Institute, P.O. Box 3395, University Station, Laramie, WY
OSTI ID:
6788880
Report Number(s):
CONF-860911-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Am. Chem. Soc., Div. Pet. Chem., Gen. Pap., Prepr.; (United States) Journal Volume: 31:3
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English