bensíni

Bensíni is a liquid hydrocarbon fuel used mainly to power spark-ignition internal combustion engines. In many languages bensíni corresponds to what English speakers call gasoline or petrol. It is produced from crude oil by refining and is commonly blended with additives such as detergents, corrosion inhibitors, and, in many markets, ethanol to meet specific octane standards and performance requirements.

Chemically, bensíni consists primarily of low-to-mid range hydrocarbons, including paraffins, cycloalkanes, and aromatics, with typical components in the C4 to C12 range. It is highly volatile and has a relatively high energy density, which facilitates easy starting and efficient combustion in gasoline engines. The octane rating measures resistance to engine knocking and varies by market, with common grades around 87 to 98. The color of bensíni is usually pale to amber, and its precise formulation varies by region and refinery.

Production and regulation: bensíni is refined from crude oil through processes such as catalytic reforming, alkylation, and blending of lighter streams. Market gasoline must meet national standards, for example EN 228 in the European Union and ASTM D4814 in the United States, which specify composition, volatility, and performance criteria. Additives may include detergents, anti-oxidants, and oxygenates; leaded gasoline has been largely phased out in most regions, and sulfur content is increasingly regulated. Ethanol blends (for example E10 or E85) are common in many areas to support renewable fuel usage.

Environmental and safety considerations: burning bensíni releases carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds, contributing to air pollution and climate change. It is highly flammable, and vapors can pose fire and health risks, so proper storage and handling are essential.