naftaleeni

Naftaleeni, or naphthalene, is an aromatic hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C10H8. It consists of two fused benzene rings, making it the simplest polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH). At room temperature it is a white crystalline solid with a strong, characteristic odor. It has a melting point of about 80.3°C and a boiling point near 218°C, and it is poorly soluble in water while readily soluble in many organic solvents. Its density is approximately 1.14 g/cm3.

Occurrence and production sources: Naphthalene occurs naturally in coal tar and is produced commercially from coal tar or as a byproduct of refining fossil fuels. It is also found in some fossil-derived products such as creosotes. In industry, it is valued as a chemical precursor and intermediate.

Uses and applications: The principal industrial use of naphthalene is as a feedstock for the production of phthalic anhydride, via oxidation with air over catalytic systems. Phthalic anhydride is a key precursor for alkyd resins, plasticizers, and dyes. Naphthalene has historically been used in mothballs and deodorizing products, and it remains used in some pesticide formulations and organic syntheses.

Safety and environmental aspects: Naphthalene is flammable and can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Prolonged exposure may have systemic effects; ingestion or inhalation can be hazardous. IARC classifies naphthalene as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). It can cause hemolytic anemia in individuals with G6PD deficiency. Environmentally, it is poorly soluble in water, may volatilize, and can persist in soils and sediments; it degrades slowly and largely partitions to organic matter.