FTIR analysis of whole asphalt and some crackate

The present paper demonstrates the FTIR analysis of the virgin asphalt and some crackates obtained thermally as well as catalytically in a micro autoclave under nitrogen atmosphere. Existence of pronounced bands in the spectrum of virgin asphalt confirms that the sample under study is enriched with complex aromatic hydrocarbons in addition to aliphatic, olefinic and naphthenic configurations. The presence of bands correspond to aromatic configurations in most of the spectra of the crackate obtained with catalysts like HZSM-5, silica, phospho-tungstic acid and AlCl3 as evidenced from their poor catalytic activities. The appearance of some bands correspond to polar compounds in some of the spectra of crackates obtained with catalysts like nickel oxide and ammonium heptamolybdate have confirmed their effectiveness in conversion of the asphalt in to oxygenated compounds. The disappearance of some bands corresponding to aromatic configurations in some crackates obtained with catalysts like UTIMAC (Utmanzai Clay) and sodium silicate, has confirmed their effectiveness in the conversion of asphalt under study in to useful products. Amongst the modifiers used, the effect of coal was beneficial.