naphtha

Naphtha is a generic term for a family of volatile, flammable hydrocarbon liquids produced during the distillation of petroleum or coal tar. The name historically covers several distinct products, with composition and uses depending on the source and refining process. In contemporary refining, petroleum naphtha denotes the light distillate fraction that comes off early in the refinery's distillation curve and is used as a solvent or as a petrochemical feedstock. Its exact boiling range varies, but it typically includes liquids that boil roughly from 30 to 200 degrees Celsius, and it is commonly subdivided into light naphtha and heavy naphtha by their boiling ranges and composition.

Coal tar naphtha, derived from coal tar, tends to contain higher concentrations of aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene and xylene. Because of toxicity concerns, especially benzene content, coal tar naphtha is used less widely today and refined hydrocarbon naphthas with controlled compositions are preferred for most consumer and industrial applications.

Uses of naphtha include solvents for paints, coatings, adhesives, and cleaning agents, as well as feedstocks for petrochemical processing. Light naphtha is a major feedstock for steam cracking to produce olefins, while heavier fractions can be blended into gasoline or processed further in reforming units.

Safety: Naphtha is flammable and volatile; vapors can pose health risks if inhaled and liquid contact can irritate skin or eyes. Handling requires good ventilation, proper storage away from heat or flames, and appropriate personal protective equipment.