Hydrocarbon-based

Describing something that is primarily composed of or derived from hydrocarbons. Hydrocarbons are organic chemical compounds solely consisting of hydrogen and carbon atoms. The term is frequently applied to fuels, solvents, plastics, and other materials where these compounds are the main component, characterizing their chemical makeup, source material, or fundamental properties like flammability or solubility. This classification is crucial in fields like chemistry, energy, and materials science, influencing how a substance is manufactured, utilized, and handled. The adjective also encompasses the related processes of creation or refinement using hydrocarbons.

Hydrocarbon-based meaning with examples

• The company focused its research on developing hydrocarbon-based alternatives to traditional lubricants, seeking improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact. These advanced lubricants promised better performance under extreme conditions compared to their predecessors.
• Many industrial solvents utilized in manufacturing processes are hydrocarbon-based, offering strong dissolving capabilities for various substances, though their usage often requires careful ventilation to mitigate potential health hazards.
• The production of numerous plastics depends on hydrocarbon-based feedstocks, like petroleum and natural gas, impacting the lifecycle assessment and disposal strategies due to the non-biodegradable nature of most plastic polymers.
• The exploration for and refining of hydrocarbon-based fossil fuels, such as crude oil and natural gas, is a significant global industry, powering transportation, electricity generation, and various other crucial aspects of modern society.
• Certain cleaning products are formulated with hydrocarbon-based surfactants which offer effective removal of grease and oil; understanding the formulation helps with selecting the best cleaning option.