Hard oil refers to a dense, solid petroleum product that is derived from bituminous or heavy crude oil. It is a fossil fuel byproduct that undergoes a process known as petroleum refining to produce various types of fuel and other petroleum-based products. Hard oil is characterized by its high density and viscosity, which makes it less fluid than lighter crude oils.
Due to its physical properties, hard oil is often used as a raw material in the manufacturing of lubricants, bitumen, asphalt, and carbon black, among other products. Its high viscosity makes it suitable for applications where a thick and resistant substance is required, such as in heavy-duty machinery or road construction.
To extract useful components from hard oil, refining processes such as distillation and cracking are employed. These processes break down the complex hydrocarbons and separate them into lighter fractions, such as gasoline, kerosene, and diesel, as well as residual heavy oils like bitumen. Hard oil is typically found in regions with bitumen-rich reserves, such as Canada's oil sands deposits.
Although hard oil is an abundant resource, its extraction and processing can be challenging due to its dense nature and high energy requirements. Additionally, the combustion of hard oil-based products, such as asphalt or diesel fuel, can produce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to environmental concerns.
