Determination of Saturates, Aromatics, Resins and Asphaltenes (SARA) Fractions in Iran Crude oil Sample with Chromatography Methods: Study of the Geochemical Parameters

Abstract

In this study, Iran crude oil samples (K, L) were separated on the basis of solubility and polarity, resulting in saturates, aromatics, resins, and asphaltenes fractions. The fractions were analyzed by traditional open column chromatography, thin layer chromatography-Flame ionization detector in an Itroscan instrument (TLC-FID) and Gas chromatography with flame ionization detection for the determination of n-alkane and isoprenoid distribution in oil samples that are chosen as the most suitable structures for the identification and differentiation of crude oil samples and oil-oil correlations. The precursor organic matters of the analyzed oil samples of K, L are from a low salinity marine carbonate and reduced depositional environment. The studied oil samples were light and appeared to be mostly of type II, III kerogen mixture origin. The Koil sample is moderately mature (OEP and CPI are near 1).