The world of petrochemicals
The word may not strike a chord with many a commoner but petrochemicals figure in our lives more than ever.
What are petrochemicals?
Petrochemicals are chemicals made from petroleum or natural gas, and are the most essential materials in the industry. They are used in products such as detergents, fertilizers, medicines, paints, plastics, synthetic fibres, and synthetic rubber.
Primary petrochemicals are divided into three groups depending on their chemical structure:
Olefins - include ethylene, propylene, and butadiene. Ethylene and propylene are important sources of industrial chemicals and plastics products. Butadiene is used in making synthetic rubber.
Aromatic petrochemicals - include benzene, toluene, and xylenes. Benzene is used in the manufacture of dyes and synthetic detergents. Toluene is used in making explosives. Manufacturers use xylenes in making plastics and synthetic fibres.
Synthesis gas - is a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, and is used to make the petrochemicals ammonia and methanol. Ammonia is used in making fertilizers and explosives whereas methanol serves as a source for other chemicals. |
