Alberta Oil Sands Technology and Research Authority

Ortech Corporation

J David Tyrer

James B Hyne

Heavy crude oils are upgraded thermally in the presence of water and a polyhydroxy metal bentonite in an autoclave, particularly at a temperature of about 200.degree. to about 300.degree. C.

Upgrading heavy oil

A process for recovering oil from a subterranean heavy oil-containing reservoir is provided, wherein steam and carbon monoxide are injected into the reservoir at a temperature less than about 260.degree. C. At these low temperatures, the steam and hydrogen-free carbon monoxide are found to react in the reservoir, by the water gas reaction, to form carbon dioxide and hydrogen. These products both have upgrading effects on the heavy oil, enhancing its quality and producibility. At the low temperatures of the process, gasification and polymerization of the heavy oil are minimized.

Growing community of inventors

Oakville, Canada

J David Tyrer