PRODUCTION OF OXIDIZED HUMIC ACIDS BY AN OXYGEN-ALKALI PROCESS

摘要

A method is disclosed for the production of oxidized humic acids. The process of the invention comprises reacting humic acid bearing ores with oxygen under alkaline conditions at a temperature between 100.degree.C and 200.degree.C for at least 1/2 hour, but usually for 1-2 hours, to produce oxidized humic acids which are soluble at pH as low as 2.9 and which are formed in yields of at least 70%. The oxidized humic acids produced according to the process of the invention are also superior viscosity reducers.