Petroleum fractions and their use

Answer 1

Petroleum fractions are the various components that are derived from the distillation of crude oil. These fractions vary in molecular weight and properties, making them suitable for different applications in various industries. Below is an overview of the main petroleum fractions and their uses:

1. Gaseous hydrocarbons (Natural gas):

   • Composition: Methane (CH₄), ethane (C₂H₆), propane (C₃H₈), butane (C₄H₁₀).
   • Uses:
     • Fuel for heating, cooking, and electricity generation.
     • Feedstock for chemical production, including petrochemicals like ethylene and propylene.

2. Naphtha:

   • Composition: A mixture of hydrocarbons ranging from C5 to C10.
   • Uses:
     • Solvent in industrial applications and paints.
     • Feedstock for the production of gasoline.
     • Precursor for producing various chemicals and plastics.

3. Kerosene:

   • Composition: A mixture of hydrocarbons ranging from C10 to C16.
   • Uses:
     • Aviation fuel (Jet A, Jet A-1).
     • Fuel for heating and lamps.
     • Feedstock for petrochemical processes.

4. Diesel (Gas oil):

   • Composition: Hydrocarbons ranging from C12 to C20.
   • Uses:
     • Fuel for diesel engines in vehicles, ships, and machinery.
     • Heating oil for industrial and residential heating.
     • Feedstock for refining into other products such as lubricating oils.

5. Lubricating Oil:

   • Composition: Heavier hydrocarbons (C20 and above).
   • Uses:
     • Lubricants for engines and machinery to reduce friction and wear.
     • Hydraulic fluids and greases.

6. Residuum (Residual oil or heavy fuel oil):

   • Composition: Very heavy hydrocarbons (C20 and above), including asphaltenes.
   • Uses:
     • Fuel for power plants and large ships.
     • Feedstock for further refining processes, such as coking and cracking.

7. Asphalt:

   • Composition: Very heavy, high-boiling hydrocarbons and contains a significant amount of asphaltenes.
   • Uses:
     • Paving material for roads and airport runways.
     • Waterproofing and roofing materials.

8. Petrochemicals:

   • While not a fraction by itself, many of the lighter fractions (like naphtha and ethane) are used as feedstocks for the production of petrochemicals, which are then used in manufacturing plastics, synthetic fibers, rubber, and other chemicals.

Each of these fractions undergoes further processing and refining to enhance their properties and make them suitable for specific applications. The versatility of petroleum fractions underscores their importance in the global economy and various industrial processes.