Kerosene

Kerosene (or paraffin oil) is a lightly viscous hydrocarbon fuel obtained by refining crude oil. It is colorless or pale yellow in color and is commonly used as jet fuel heating oil and for lighting. It is a flammable liquid with a density between gasoline and diesel.

Chemical Composition and Production

Kerosene consists primarily of hydrocarbon chains in the C₁₂–C₁₅ range, mostly alkanes and cycloalkanes. It is produced by distilling crude oil between 150°C and 275°C. During the refining process, sulfur and aromatic compounds are reduced to produce a cleaner fuel.

Main Types:

• Jet-A / Jet-A1 (Aviation fuel)
• JP-5 / JP-8 (Military aircraft fuel)
• No. 1-K (High-purity kerosene)
• Lamp Oil (For lighting purposes)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Applications

a) Aviation Fuel (Jet Fuel)

• Types such as Jet-A, Jet-A1, and JP-8 are used in commercial and military aircraft.
• Additives are included to enhance resistance to freezing at low temperatures.

b) Heating and Fuel

• Used for residential and industrial heating in cold climates.
• Preferred in portable heaters and camping stoves.

c) Lighting and Industrial Use

• Used in gas lamps and as a solvent in certain industrial processes.

d) Other Uses

• As a carrier liquid in some insecticides.
• As a metalworking and cleaning solvent.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:

• High energy efficiency (between gasoline and diesel)
• Low freezing point (ideal for aviation fuel)
• Low sulfur content (less harmful to the environment)
• Stable combustion (safe for heating systems)

Disadvantages:

• Lower energy density compared to gasoline
• Can release toxic vapors if improperly used
• Can absorb water during storage (which may cause issues in aviation fuel)

Safety and Storage Conditions

• Must be kept away from open flames and sparks due to its flammability.
• Should be stored in well-ventilated, cool, and dark environments.
• Can be stored in plastic or stainless steel tanks.
• Inhalation is harmful; prolonged exposure must be avoided.