In N-Solv, heated solvent vapour is injected at moderate pressures into the gravity drainage chamber. The vapour flows from the injection well to the colder perimeter of the chamber where it condenses. This delivers heat and fresh solvent directly to the bitumen extraction interface. The N-Solv extraction conditions are very gentle compared to in situ steam processes, so the valuable components in the bitumen are preferentially extracted and the problematic high molecular weight coke forming species (asphaltenes) are left behind. The condensed solvent and oil then drain via gravity to the bottom of the chamber and are recovered via the production well.

The in situ solvent deasphalting is very selective and leaves the asphaltenes evenly dispersed throughout the extracted portion of the chamber. Post extraction core analyses show that the residue contains 60 to 70% asphaltenes.

It is recognized by N-Solv scientists that the (negative) impact of non condensable gases on the extraction rates is critical.  Non-condensable gases are released from the bitumen and accumulate in the reservoir if no special measures are taken.  Increasing concentrations of non-condensable gases slow down the production rates. This effect can be severe and must be mitigated.  The right circulation of solvent in the N-Solv process provides sufficient capacity to minimize and stabilize the concentration of non-condensables inside the reservoir.  Through this built-in principle the process is able to sustain high production rates throughout