Sub-Product

Maltenes are the n-Alkane (Pentane or Heptane)-soluble Molecular Components of Asphalt (Bitumen, Pitch). Asphaltene Compounds are the other primary component of asphalt.

As viscous Liquids, Maltenes consist of heavy, dark-colored Asphaltic Resins, First Acidaffins, Second Acidaffins, and Saturates, combined with lighter colored Oils. The Resins provide the adhesive qualities in Asphalts; the Oils are the carrier medium for both the Maltene Resins and the Asphaltene Compounds. Maltenes are characterized by their lower molecular weight and their solubility, in comparison with Asphaltenes. Using adsorption chromatography in the presence of an Acid Reagent, Maltenes can be separated into four Fractions:

• The Polar Compounds are highly reactive Petroleum Resins that act as a Colloidal Dispersion Stabilizer for the Asphaltene Substrate.
• First Acidaffins are Aromatic Hydrocarbons, with or without Oxygen, Nitrogen and Sulfur. They provide a chemically compatible Dispersing Agent for Peptized Asphaltene.
• Second Acidaffins are Straight Chain or Cyclic Unsaturated Petro-Hydrocarbons (aka Olefins). They are somewhat oily and somewhat resinous.
• Saturates (aka Paraffins) are either Straight or Branch Chain Saturated Hydrocarbons. They are the True Oil Component of Asphalt Binder, and function as the Gelling Agent for the Asphalt Compounds.