Kivisöetõrvas

Kivisöetõrvas, often referred to as coal tar, is a dark, viscous liquid by-product of the destructive distillation of coal. This process, typically carried out in coke ovens, involves heating coal in the absence of air to produce coke, a fuel source, and releasing volatile substances that condense into coal tar. The composition of coal tar is highly complex, consisting of hundreds of different organic compounds, primarily aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, xylene, naphthalene, anthracene, and phenol.

Historically, coal tar played a significant role in industrial chemistry. It served as a crucial source for many organic chemicals that formed the basis of the synthetic dye industry, leading to the development of vibrant colors that revolutionized textiles. Furthermore, its derivatives found applications in pharmaceuticals, explosives, and the production of plastics. However, due to the hazardous nature of many of its components, including known carcinogens, its direct use has significantly declined, and it is now primarily processed to extract valuable chemical fractions rather than being used in its raw form. Modern industrial practices often involve specialized refining to isolate specific compounds for controlled applications, while stringent safety measures are in place to manage its handling and disposal.