Evaluation of several methods of extraction of oil from a Jordanian oil shale

► Various methods for extracting a Jordanian oil shale were compared. ► High recovery of organic matter was obtained at relatively low temperature (355 °C). ► The oil/asphaltene ratio was improved at 425 °C. ► Small amounts of added water were beneficial, but larger amounts reduced yields. ► A number of catalysts examined did not benefit oil yields.