Asphaltene adsorption on functionalized solids

Asphaltenes are aromatic heavy components of crude oil. Because of their dual structure made of an aromatic-core and aliphatic side-chains, asphaltenes develop a particular affinity with interfaces. For instance, their ability to adsorb onto various solids can induce serious damage such as pipe clogging. We study the effect of the physico-chemical properties of the substrate on the extent of this adsorption. Based on chemical characterizations, wetting studies and roughness measurements, we develop different tools to investigate the deposition of those molecules. Then, we quantify the adsorption using QCM and ellipsometry. We later discuss the adsorption mechanism probing orientation and adhesion of asphaltenes molecules on a solid with force spectroscopy measurement.