Refinery byproducts are residual materials that are left over from the refining process of crude oil. These materials include a wide range of substances, such as heavy oils, tars, asphaltenes, and other complex organic compounds. While these materials are often considered waste products, they can also be used as raw materials for a variety of industrial applications, including the production of plasticizers.Plasticizers are additives that are added to plastics to improve their flexibility, durability, and other physical properties. They are widely used in the production of a wide range of plastic products, including PVC pipes, vinyl flooring, and medical equipment.Refinery byproducts are a valuable source of raw materials for plasticizers because they contain a variety of complex organic compounds that can be used to create different types of plasticizers. For example, phthalic anhydride, a common plasticizer, can be produced from naphthalene, a byproduct of crude oil refining. Other plasticizers, such as adipates and sebacates, can be produced from other refinery byproducts, such as adipic acid and sebacic acid.Using refinery byproducts as raw materials for plasticizers has several benefits. Firstly, it reduces the amount of waste produced by refineries, which can have significant environmental benefits. Secondly, it provides a cost-effective source of raw materials for plasticizer production, which can help to reduce the overall cost of plastic products. Finally, it reduces the dependence on non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels, which is an important consideration in a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important.
