Process role
Heavy molecules are converted and impurities such as sulphur are reduced.
How the system fits together
Hydrogen-based treatment and thermal or catalytic conversion are major functional categories.
Environmental and reclamation context
Upgrading requires substantial energy, water and supporting utilities, so emissions and efficiency matter.
What to keep in mind
Not all bitumen is upgraded in Alberta; much is transported as diluted bitumen to refineries.
High-level industrial education only. Oil sands mines, thermal wells, extraction plants, upgraders and tailings facilities are hazardous regulated operations; this site does not provide operating setpoints, chemical recipes or equipment procedures.