Abiotic Degradation of Oil Asphaltens

This review is devoted to the generalization and systematization of the available literature data on the processes of abiotic degradation of asphaltenes, which can occur in natural conditions. In particular, it was shown that exposure to sunlight, and especially UV radiation, triggers photolysis and photooxidation reactions in asphaltenes, leading to an increase in the oxygen content in them, thereby shifting the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance towards hydrophilicity. At the same time the availability of reaction products for subsequent biotic degradation by microorganisms is increased. Exposure to ionizing radiation does not lead to a significant change in the molecular composition of asphaltenes, due to their high radiation resistance. As exception there is the irradiation of asphaltenes with intense electron beams, which leads to their significant degradation.