DILBIT Meaning and
Definition
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Dilbit, short for diluted bitumen, is a term used to describe a type of crude oil that is thick, heavy, and viscous. It is a blend of bitumen, a semi-solid form of petroleum, and a diluent, typically a light hydrocarbon liquid, such as natural gas condensate or naphtha, which is added to thin the bitumen and make it easier to transport through pipelines.
The process of dilution involves mixing the bitumen with the diluent to achieve a liquid consistency that can flow smoothly through pipelines. This diluted mixture is known as dilbit. The proportion of bitumen to diluent can vary depending on the specific characteristics of the oil, but typically dilbit contains around 70-80% bitumen and 20-30% diluent.
Dilbit is primarily produced from oil sands deposits, which consist of a mixture of bitumen, sand, and water. It requires additional processing to separate the bitumen from the sand and water before it can be diluted for transportation.
One notable aspect of dilbit is its high density and viscosity, which distinguishes it from lighter, conventional crude oils. This unique composition makes dilbit more challenging to clean and recover in the event of a spill or release into the environment, as it tends to sink and adhere to surfaces. These factors have generated debates and concerns regarding the potential environmental impact associated with the transportation and storage of dilbit.
Etymology of DILBIT
The word "dilbit" is a shortened form of "diluted bitumen". The term "bitumen" originates from the Latin word "bitūmen", which referred to a viscous, black, and sticky substance. It was used in various contexts, including asphalt and pitch. The word "diluted" refers to the process of adding a diluent or lighter hydrocarbon material to the bitumen, making it easier to transport through pipelines. Hence, "dilbit" is derived by combining these two terms to describe a mixture of bitumen and diluent.
