TITLE:
Extraction of Energy Resources—Exploitation of the Canadian Oil Sands
AUTHORS:
Wei Zhang
KEYWORDS:
Bitumen, Oil Sand, Solvent Extraction, Thermal Recovery, Wind Energy
JOURNAL NAME:
Natural Resources,
Vol.5 No.9,
July
31,
2014
ABSTRACT: Considerable reserves of
oil sands are located in northernAlberta.
Exploitation of these reserves has been instrumental in the development of theAlbertaeconomy. Mining
and processing techniques, including “in
situ” processing and surface mining/aqueous treatment, are presented. Oil
assisted flotation and solvent extraction are discussed as possible future
processing alternatives. Subsequent froth treatment and refining methods are
described. The rapid expansion of bitumen processing in theFort
McMurrayarea has drastically affectedAlberta’s economic, political and social
policy. Corresponding strain has been placed on the regional ecosystem. A
comparison between wind and bitumen as sources of energy is offered.