Recent Developments in the Utilization of Unconventional Resources: A Focus on Partial Upgrading Techniques and Sustainability of Canadian Oil Sand Bitumen

Abstract

To satisfy the increasing global energy demand, while searching for new energy sources, it's important to take a closer look at the resources already at our disposal and optimize their use. This comprehensive review explores the evolving landscape of unconventional oil resources, focusing on the environmental and economic implications of bitumen partial upgrading technologies, particularly within the Canadian context. With over 55% of the world's oil reserves comprising of unconventional oil, which includes extra-heavy oil and oil sand bitumen, there is a growing trend to shift from traditional oil sources to these abundant yet under-utilized reserves. This review delves into the challenges and advancements in bitumen partial upgrading, highlighting the latest technologies in thermal cracking, hydrocracking, catalytic cracking, and innovative methods like surfactant integration, cavitation, microwave, and plasma-assisted upgrading. It also discusses the environmental implications and economic feasibility of these technologies, emphasizing the necessity for sustainable and cost-effective solutions at petroleum field sites. Furthermore, the report introduces the transformative concept of Bitumen Beyond Combustion (BBC), which explores the non-combustion uses of bitumen and its asphaltene fraction in manufacturing high-value carbon-based products. These novel approaches align with global sustainability goals, offering the potential for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and new routes to diversify the economic applications of bitumen. The review then concludes with an assessment of current challenges and future research directions, advocating for a balanced approach that harmonizes technological innovation, environmental stewardship, and economic viability in the field of bitumen upgrading.