What cyclic compound associated with asphaltenes helps keep asphaltene platelets in suspension?

• A. Maltene
• B. Resin
• C. Asphaltene
• D. Bitumen

Answer: (A)

Stability of asphaltene platelets in crude oil relies on a surrounding dispersant phase that prevents aggregation. That role is played by the maltene fraction—the lighter oils and resins that accompany asphaltenes. These resins, which include cyclic aromatic structures, adsorb onto the surface of the asphaltene platelets and create a stabilizing shell while the maltene solvent keeps the particles solvated. This combination stops the platelets from sticking together and settling out, keeping the mixture in a dispersed, suspended state. Bitumen or the isolated asphaltene portion wouldn’t provide that dispersing environment; it’s the maltene fraction that does.