What Is Benzene Used For?

Benzene is an industrial solvent and is used in a variety of products. It is a colorless liquid and is highly flammable. Benzene was discovered in 1825 and was first used as an aftershave because of its sweet and pleasant odor. Uses of benzene changed once the toxic dangers of it became known and the government regulations limited its use. Some potential side effects of exposure to benzene include birth defects and leukemia.

Degreaser

• Prior to government regulation of its use, benzene was used as a metal degreaser. It was found to be especially effective in cleaning machinery parts that became dirty through normal wear and tear.

Coffee

• In the early 20th century, Ludwig Roselius began using benzene to decaffeinate coffee and was sold under the Sanka brand. This method of decaffeinating coffee was eventually discontinued once the dangers of benzene became known.

Gasoline

• Prior to the 1950s, benzene was added to gasoline in order to increase the octane rating and reduce engine knocking. It was replaced with tetraethyl lead, but environmental concerns over leaded gasoline resulted in benzene making a comeback in gasoline in some countries. The United States limits the amount of benzene in gasoline to 1 percent.

Chemical Production

• The most common current use of benzene is in the production of other chemicals and industrial products. Benzene is used in the production of pesticides, lubricants, explosives, detergents, nylon and plastics.

Research

• Benzene is used in experiments, including the analysis of two-dimensional gas, which scientists use to better understand gas thermodynamics and questions surrounding quantum mechanics.