Capacity for sorption of naphthenic acids from oil sands process-affected water to soils from Athabasca oil sands region

This presentation discussed sorption methods for the naphthenic acids deposited in soils during oil sands production. Tests are currently being conducted to determine individual model compounds and commercial mixtures extracted from oil sands process water. The purpose is to determine the sorption potential of naphthenic acids. Three soils with tailings pond process water were tested in a batch reactor. Fluorescence spectrophotometry was used to detect changes in oil sands acid concentrations. Clay, sand, and muskeg soil samples were used. The study showed that the sorption capacity of naphthenic acids from oil sands process-affected water was greater in muskeg and lower in clay and sand samples. It was concluded that fluorescence spectrophotometry is an efficient and cost-effective screening tool. tabs., figs.