benzines

Benzines, also known as petroleum ethers or light petroleum distillates, are volatile, flammable liquid mixtures derived from petroleum. They are primarily composed of a mixture of aliphatic hydrocarbons, predominantly alkanes and cycloalkanes, with carbon chain lengths typically ranging from C5 to C12. Their composition can vary depending on the source of the crude oil and the distillation process used.

These mixtures are characterized by their low boiling points, generally below 100 degrees Celsius, and their high volatility. Benzines are colorless and possess a distinct odor. They are insoluble in water but miscible with many organic solvents. Due to their solvent properties and rapid evaporation rate, benzines find widespread use in various industrial and laboratory applications.

Common uses include acting as solvents for paints, varnishes, adhesives, and resins. They are also employed as cleaning agents and degreasers in industrial settings. In laboratories, benzines are often used as extraction solvents and as components in thin-layer chromatography. Historically, benzines were also used as fuels, particularly for early internal combustion engines and as portable fuels for lamps and stoves. However, their high flammability and potential health hazards have led to a decline in some of these applications, with safer alternatives often preferred. Care must be taken when handling benzines due to their flammability and the potential for respiratory and skin irritation.