What Does
Aromatic Solvent Mean?
An aromatic solvent is a solvent that contains an aromatic hydrocarbon such as naptha, toluene or xylene. Aromatic solvents are primarily used as solvents and diluents in various industrial fields. Aromatic solvents such as toluene are commonly used in paints, varnishes, adhesives and as chemical intermediates.
These solvents are mostly generated through distillation of crude petroleum stock in the oil refining industry. Aromatic solvents are mostly used as thinners and diluents in several end-user products, such as paints, coatings and cleaners. Aromatic solvents are also used as corrosion inhibitors in the oil and gas industry.
Corrosionpedia Explains Aromatic Solvent
Aromatic solvents are organic chemicals that have a benzene ring structure such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, mixed xylenes (BTEX) and high flash aromatic naphthas. They are mostly used in the production of paints and coatings, oilfield chemicals, automotives, pharmaceuticals, adhesives and sealants. However, it is estimated that more than 50% of the global aromatic solvents demands come from the paints and coatings industry.
Although aromatic solvents have stronger odors than aliphatic solvents, they have higher rate of solvency, which makes them a better choice as solvents in the industries.