Advances in Asphaltene Science and the Yen–Mullins Model

The Yen–Mullins model, also known as the modified Yen model, specifies the predominant molecular and colloidal structure of asphaltenes in crude oils and laboratory solvents and consists of the following: The most probable asphaltene molecular weight is ∼750 g/mol, with the island molecular architecture dominant. At sufficient concentration, asphaltene molecules form nanoaggregates with an aggregation number less than 10. At higher concentrations, nanoaggregates form clusters again with small aggregation numbers. The Yen–Mullins model is consistent with numerous molecular and colloidal studies employing a broad array of methodologies. Moreover, the Yen–Mullins model provides a foundation for the development of…