1. Ethylene (C₂H₄)
Description:
Ethylene is the most produced organic compound globally and a key building block in the petrochemical industry. It’s a colorless, flammable gas with a faint sweet odor.
Applications:
Used to produce polyethylene (plastic bags, bottles)
Key raw material for ethylene oxide, ethylene glycol (antifreeze)
Used in the manufacture of styrene, vinyl chloride, and alcohols
Acts as a plant hormone to ripen fruits.
2. Propylene (C₃H₆)
Description:
Propylene, also known as propene, is a colorless gas with a slightly sweet odor. It's derived as a by-product from petroleum refining and natural gas processing.
Applications:
Main component in producing polypropylene (used in packaging, textiles, automotive parts)
Used to manufacture acrylonitrile, propylene oxide, and isopropanol
Vital in producing resins, plastics, and detergents
3. Toluene (C₆H₅CH₃)
Description:
Toluene is a clear, water-insoluble liquid with a paint-thinner smell. It's a mono-substituted benzene derivative, often found in crude oil and as a by-product of gasoline production.
Applications:
Used as an industrial solvent for paints, coatings, glues, and nail polish removers
Precursor to benzene and xylene
Used in the production of polyurethane foams, TNT (explosives), and synthetic dyes
4. Methanol (CH₃OH)
Description:
Methanol is a light, volatile, colorless liquid with a mild alcoholic odor. It is the simplest alcohol and is made from natural gas or biomass.
Applications:
Used in the production of formaldehyde, acetic acid, and various resins
Serves as an alternative fuel and fuel additive
Used in antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and biodiesel production
Also important in pharmaceuticals and plastics
Safety Note:
Toxic if ingested or inhaled in large amounts.