Examples of Petrochemical Products & Their Uses
Did you know that the word “petroleum” comes from the Latin “oleum” which means oil and the Greek “petra” which means rock? It can be translated as rock oil and it’s one of the most popular commodities in the world.
In fact, one barrel of crude oil can be sufficient to create more 7 gallons of petrochemical products such as bitumen, glycerine, tar, and more.
Petrochemical products are essential for our society and the quality of living. They are derived from petroleum and can be used for various applications. Here are just a few of them.
Top Petrochemical Products And Their Uses
Petroleum can be used to make various products ranging from rocket fuel to plastics and paints. Here are the most popular ones available on the market:
1. Ethylene
This substance is commonly used to make different types of films and plastics. It can be found in cleaning agents such as detergents as well as lubricants for various mechanical components such as industrial valves.
2. Benzene
Benzene is very popular in the gasoline industry, but it can also be used to make nylons which are helpful in the packaging industry. Certain nylon fibers are also used to make clothes.
3. Medical resins
Petroleum can also be used to make resins used in the medical industry. Some of these resins can purify drugs and others are used to create different types of treatments, especially for those with AIDS or cancer.
4. Medical Plastics
The healthcare industry requires a lot of disposable products made from plastic such as bottles, medical syringes, etc. Petroleum can be used to create such plastics in various shapes and sizes.
5. Food Preservatives
Different types of petrochemical products can be used in the food industry to create preservatives. These substances prolong the shelf life of foods stored in cans and bags. Some ingredients found in candies and food colorings are also made from various types of petrochemical products to enhance their flavor and taste.
6. Cosmetics
Petrochemical products are usually used to create a wide variety of household products such as perfumes, cosmetics, makeup products, aftershaves, etc. Shampoos and hair dyes also contain petrochemical products in various quantities. If you use wax for your hair or beard, it has been created using petroleum derivatives.
7. Fertilizers
Certain plants, vegetables or flowers require fertilizers to help them grow quicker and remain healthy. A plethora of fertilizers and pesticides contain petrochemical products in their content.
8. Carpets
Most carpets that you can find in a household is manufactured using multiple petrochemical products. These products are intended to add color to the carpet as well as strengthen the fibers.
9. Safety Glass
Tempered or safety glass is much tougher than regular glass and it’s used in residential and commercial buildings. It keeps thieves at bay as well as protecting certain perimeters such as pools against pets or small kids. Safety glass is made using petrochemical products for enhanced strength and durability.
10. Crayons and Markers
The crayons you are probably using to draw on paper or a magnetic board contain petrochemical substances. These substances are used to add color and maybe make the ink resistant to UV rays. This applies to all kinds of crayons and markers, whether we talk about the ones used by kids or by engineers in meeting rooms.
Take Your Understanding to the Next Level!
These are only a few examples of petrochemical products you probably use every day. Petroleum is one of the most valuable resources we have on this planet and it’s important to use it efficiently and responsibly.
If you liked this short article, don’t hesitate to check out our web page dedicated to the petrochemical industry to expand your knowledge and understanding!