Abstract: A method of using oil-contaminated drill cuttings from drilling operations in roads and primarily in gravel or dirt roads to provide dust suppression or as a component of the top course of a road. In particular, the invention relates to various compositions and processes in which drill cuttings are mixed with virgin aggregates, asphalt compounds and/or recycled hydrocarbons including recycled rubber from tires and recycled asphalt shingles for incorporation into a road bed to provide a structurally satisfactory road and/or dust suppression. The invention thereby provides an effective use of oil-contaminated drill cuttings that would otherwise require remediation or disposal at a landfill.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods of forming and using an in situ heavy hydrocarbon emulsion produced during drilling operations from heavy oil and/or crude bitumen recovered through processes such as cyclic steam stimulation and steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD). After optional upgrading at the surface, the emulsion may be used as a road construction material, fuel source or an asphalt emulsion flux.