Bitumen
**Terminology and Etymology**:
– Bitumen is a viscous constituent of petroleum, also known as asphalt in the U.S. and classified as pitch.
– The term asphaltum was used before the 20th century, and the word asphalt traces back to ancient Greek.
– Latin, Sanskrit, Accadian, and other languages have contributed to the etymology of bitumen.
– Modern terminology differences exist between American, British, and Canadian English.
**Composition**:
– Bitumen consists of naphthene aromatics, polar aromatics, saturated hydrocarbons, and asphaltenes.
– It contains carbon, hydrogen, sulfur, organosulfur compounds, nickel, and vanadium.
– Additives, mixtures, and contaminants can impact the quality and properties of bitumen.
– Normal composition percentages and characteristics are well-defined.
**Occurrence and History**:
– Bitumen is primarily obtained from petroleum for commercial use.
– Natural deposits are found in locations like Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, and the Dead Sea.
– Significant reserves are present in Alberta, Canada, notably the Athabasca oil sands.
– Historical uses date back to Paleolithic times and were prevalent in ancient civilizations.
**Regional Development**:
– Continental Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada have unique historical narratives around bitumen.
– Industrial development, medicinal properties, and early uses in photography and art are notable in these regions.
– Canada, with the Athabasca oil sands, has played a significant role in bitumen extraction and development.
**Industrial Applications and Environmental Impact**:
– Bitumen has been used for various industrial purposes like waterproofing, roofing, fuels, lubricants, and medicines.
– The environmental impact of bitumen extraction and use has been a subject of concern.
– Innovations in extraction techniques have aimed to reduce environmental implications and improve efficiency.
– The historical significance of bitumen extraction, like Dr. Karl A. Clark’s contributions, is tied to its environmental impact and technological development.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitumen