Light Hydrocarbon
Application as a Fuel: Used as a fuel in four-stroke, spark-ignition, reciprocating internal combustion engines.
Industrial & Chemical Applications: Serves as a fuel, extractant, or diluent for essential oils; a solvent for rubber-based adhesives; a precision cleaning agent for tools; and a polishing agent for synthetic leather.
Another category of light hydrocarbon is a mixture of C9 to C12 paraffinic and aromatic hydrocarbons, with a boiling point range of 142–200°C. These solvents are clear, water-white liquids with a mild odor, and are characterized by their chemical stability and non-corrosive nature.
Primary Applications
The most significant application for C9-C12 hydrocarbons is in the coatings industry, where they are one of the most common solvents for paints, varnishes, and lacquers. In Europe, for instance, approximately 60% of their consumption is dedicated to this sector, including applications in paint thinners and nail polish.
Other Key Uses
Their properties make them suitable for a diverse range of functions, including:
An extraction and cleaning solvent.
A degreaser for metal surfaces.
A solvent in aerosols, asphalt products, and polishes for furniture, flooring, and shoes.
A solvent in textile printing.
A dry-cleaning fluid.
A specialized application is their use as a cutting fluid in diamond processing machinery, which is why this grade is often referred to as “DIAMOND CUT” or “DIAMOND TURNING” solvent.
