This paper discusses the role of magnetite in the conversion of heavy oil from the Ashal’cha reservoir. The effect of catalysts on the in-situ upgrading of heavy oil is directed on the reduction of high-molecular components of oil such as resins and asphaltenes and their molecular masses. Moreover, it is directed on the significant increase in saturates and aromatic fractions. Measuring the temperature-dependent viscosity characteristics revealed the tremendous viscosity decrease of the obtained catalytic aquathermolysis products. X-ray analysis exposed the composition of the initial catalyst that consisted of mixed iron oxides (II, III), as well as catalysts that were extracted from the treated crude oil. The particle size of the catalysts was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. According to the SEM data, aggregates of 200 nm were formed that were in the range of ultra-dispersed particles (200 to 500 nm).

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This paper discusses the influence of magnetite on conversion of Ashal’cha heavy oil under the temperature of 200°C. The role of catalyst in in-situ upgrading of heavy oil is directed on the content reduction of high-molecular components such as resins and asphaltenes, as well as their molecular masses. The significant increase (10%) in the content of aromatic fraction and decrease in high-molecular hydrocarbons (8%) is observed. The results of measurements indicate the positive influence of catalyst on the rheology. Magnetite participates in destruction of associated complexes in resins and thereby decreases the viscosity of crude oil. The destruction products increase the content of light hydrocarbons, particularly saturates and aromatics. Investigation of temperature-dependent rheology characteristics revealed significant viscosity reduction in the products of catalytic aquathermolysis.