EXFOLIATION OF ASPHALTENES

摘要

A method for decomposing an asphaltene particle includes contacting the asphaltene particle with an intercalating agent; and reacting the intercalating agent to increase a distance between asphaltene molecules in the asphaltene particle to decompose the asphaltene particle. In a method for producing decomposed asphaltene, the method includes disposing an intercalating agent in an oil environment; contacting an asphaltene particle in the oil environment with the intercalating agent; reacting the intercalating agent to produce product molecules; and decomposing the asphaltene particle to produce decomposed asphaltene.