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5 Shocking Products Made From Oil & Gas
Whether helping us go about our daily lives or aiding us in exploring the next frontier, these 5 products are proof that there is more to the oil and gas industry than meets the eye.
By Max Russell, Contributor | Posted August 3, 2022
Petrochemicals, chemical byproducts produced by refining oil and gas, can be found in over 6,000 household products and cutting-edge technologies. Whether helping us go about our daily lives or aiding us in exploring the next frontier, these 5 products are proof that there is more to the oil and gas industry than meets the eye.
Eyeglasses
Speaking of eyes, most glasses lenses are made of a highly durable plastic called polycarbonate, which is produced using a petrochemical known as BPA.
To add scratch-resistance, the lenses are treated with a special coating containing various forms of a petrochemical called acetate. For an additional cost, customers can purchase polarized lenses that are treated with polyvinyl acetate to prevent glare.
Whether or not you are a glasses person, you can now see how petrochemicals help people in unexpected ways.
Asprin
Sometimes wearing glasses too long can give you a headache. Good thing you have aspirin!
Aspirin is created from a chemical called benzyne, which is a natural component of crude oil and gasoline. Benzene is also produced by forest fires and volcanoes. Smokin’!
Spacesuits
Spacesuits worn for spacewalks are called Extravehicular Mobility Units, or EMUs. An EMU can have up to 16 layers, each designed for specific functions.
With so many layers, spacesuits are made using several different petrochemicals. Some of these petrochemicals are gortex, neoprene, mylar, nylon, spandex, dacron and Kevlar.
Because they are so technologically advanced, EMUs are actually considered personal spacecrafts. Out of this world!
Parachutes
Like spacesuits, parachutes are also made of various petrochemical textiles like nylon and kevlar.
These substances are lightweight but incredibly strong, allowing parachutes to support your weight safely through the air. Petrochemicals can be really fly.
Candy and Gum
After consuming all that information, you probably want some dessert. How about some candy?
Many candies, like chocolate and jellybeans, use an edible petrochemical byproduct called food-safe paraffin-wax. This substance reduces stickiness and gives candies that irresistible shine that triggers your sweet tooth.
Most gums are produced using synthetic rubbers, such as the petrochemical isobutylene. Chew on that!
As you now know, oil and gas do a lot more for us than just provide power. If you want to learn about how Caterpillar helps the world produce oil and gas, click here!
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