Petrokemiatööstus

Petrokemiatööstus, also known as the petrochemical industry, is a significant sector focused on the production of chemicals derived from petroleum and natural gas. These raw materials, often referred to as feedstocks, are processed through various chemical reactions to yield a wide range of essential products. The primary goal of this industry is to transform hydrocarbons into valuable compounds that serve as building blocks for countless other manufactured goods.

Key products of the petrochemical industry include plastics, synthetic fibers, synthetic rubber, solvents, fertilizers, and detergents. These substances are fundamental to modern life, appearing in everything from packaging and clothing to automobiles and agricultural products. The processes involved are complex, often involving cracking, reforming, and polymerization. These technologies break down large hydrocarbon molecules into smaller ones or rearrange them to create new chemical structures with desired properties.

The global petrochemical industry is a major economic driver, with large-scale facilities often integrated into refineries or located in specialized industrial complexes. It plays a crucial role in supply chains across numerous sectors, influencing manufacturing, agriculture, and consumer goods. Environmental considerations and the search for more sustainable feedstocks and processes are increasingly important aspects of the industry's development.