What Are Petrochemicals?
A real simple definition for petrochemicals:
Petrochemicals are chemicals made from petroleum (crude oil) and natural gas.
However to get a clearer definition of what petrochemicals are, a much broader definition is needed.
There are over 4,000 products classified as "petrochemicals".
A broader definition for petrochemicals would include:
Petrochemicals are organic and inorganic compounds and mixtures that include but are not limited to organic chemicals, cyclic intermediates, plastics and resins, synthetic fibers, elastomers, organic dyes, organic pigments, detergents, surface active agents, carbon black, and ammonia.
And Petrochemicals are divided into more specific groups:
Petrochemical feedstocks can be classified into three general groups: olefins, aromatics and a third group that includes synthesis gas and inorganics.
And, then there's more . . .
Primary petrochemicals are reacted to form secondary petrochemicals, other chemical products, or polymerized to form synthetic resins. These in turn are incorporated into a great variety of industrial and consumer products.
In many instances, a specific chemical included among the petrochemicals may also be obtained from other sources, such as coal, coke, or vegetable products.
For example, materials such as benzene and naphthalene can be made from either petroleum or coal, while ethyl alcohol may be of petrochemical or vegetable origin.
For more information on Petrochemicals, see the following:
Popular Petrochemical Products made from Petroleum (Crude Oil)
Dangers of DEA - Found in most personal care products
How Plastic is Made from Petrochemicals