Comment On A Paper By Mullins, Martinez-haya, And Marshall 'contrasting Perspective On Asphaltene Molecular Weight. This Comment Vs The Overview Of A. A. Herod, K. D. Bartle, And R. kandiyoti'

摘要

As outlined above, observations made using the techniques that we have developed and used have closely reflected changes in pyrolysis and liquefaction process conditions. These analytical methods have helped explain the molecular mass and structural changes caused by changing process conditions. In addition, there is still much work to be done. It is difficult to see how the notion of molecular aggregates (during its long career) has helped solve or understand any of the problems that affect the use of heavy oils or indeed petroleum asphaltenes. It has been of no use to the oil industry in trying to understand the processing of asphaltenes or in leading to their disaggregation to smaller molecules. It has solved none of the persisting problems related to molecular mass in the oil industry. Our methods have made strides in attempting to explain why asphaltenes and large molecules of coal liquids are not easily converted to the small molecules required by industry. Our aim has been to try to understand the limitations of the processing methods that we use. Fractionation of complex samples by different methods has been necessary to separate large and small molecules for independent examination to understand the instrumental limitations. The careful scrutiny and progressive refinement of our own analytical methods has shown the way to some of these advances. We cordially recommend the same approach to our detractors.