Erdölprodukte

Erdölprodukte, also known as petroleum products, are substances derived from crude oil through the refining process. Crude oil, a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, is extracted from underground deposits and then separated into various fractions based on their boiling points in a refinery. This separation process, called distillation, yields a range of products.

The most well-known Erdölprodukte include gasoline, also known as petrol, which is primarily used as fuel for internal combustion engines in vehicles. Diesel fuel is another major product, powering diesel engines in trucks, buses, and some cars. Kerosene is used as jet fuel for aircraft and also for lighting and heating.

Beyond fuels, refining produces lubricating oils, which reduce friction in machinery. Waxes, such as paraffin wax, are derived from petroleum and used in candles, food packaging, and polishes. Asphalt, or bitumen, is a heavy residue from refining and is extensively used in road construction and roofing.

Furthermore, petroleum is a crucial source for petrochemicals, which are then used to manufacture a vast array of everyday items. These include plastics, synthetic fibers for clothing and textiles, fertilizers, solvents, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The versatility and widespread application of Erdölprodukte make them fundamental to modern industrial societies and economies.