Asphaltenes are molecular substances that are found in crude oil, along with resins, aromatic hydrocarbons, and saturates (i.e. saturated hydrocarbons such as alkanes).[1][2] The word "asphaltene" was coined by Jean-Baptiste Boussingault in 1837 when he noticed that the distillation residue of some bitumens had asphalt-like properties. [citation needed] Asphaltenes in the form of asphalt or bitumen products from oil refineries are used as paving materials on roads, shingles for roofs, and waterproof coatings on building foundations.
- ^ Mullins, O. C. et al. (eds.) (2007) Asphaltenes, Heavy Oils and Petroleomics, Springer, New York.
- ^ Asphaltene. uic.edu