HOW DOES THE TECHNOLOGY WORK?
The process is conceptually simple and works well because of these factors:
- The strong force of attraction between the TNS Chemistry and mineral surfaces has been shown to reduce the adhesive forces between silica and bitumen allowing easy detachment under low shear.
- The chemistry utilized in this process is entirely incompatible with hydrocarbons like bitumen or oil. This, combined with a significant density contrast, yields distinct phase separation of hydrocarbons from the chemistry.