Kerosene, a colorless, thin liquid generated through fractional distillation of petroleum is a combination of aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons. Kerosene is a colorless thin mineral oil whose density varies between 0.75 and 0.85 g/cm3. Kerosene is miscible in petroleum solvents but not in water. The flash point of kerosene is between 37°C and 65°C and its auto-ignition temperature is 220°C. It also possesses low volatility. In cases of incomplete combustion, kerosene produces an unpleasant odor. It is a combustible hydrocarbon liquid sometimes referred to as paraffin or paraffin oil not only in South Africa but also in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Ireland. Major components of kerosene are benzene and substituted benzene (13.7%); alkanes and cycloalkanes (68.6%); and naphthalene and substituted naphthalenes. “Kerosene is the most generally used fuel in non-electrified dwellings worldwide; this is especially so in Africa and South Asia, because of its relatively low cost and easy accessibility unlike electricity and gas”.
“This hydrocarbon fuel produced through distillation of petroleum is invaluable for many reasons. In comparison with other fuel types, the production of kerosene is relatively cheap. In addition, it is readily available, such that it provides heat, light, and cooking opportunities to millions of individuals, especially in rural areas who would otherwise be without a domestic source of energy”. “Yet it poses two major risks of injury, especially to children. The first is poisoning, either through ingestion or through inhalation of smoke and fumes”. “Poisoning through ingestion is possible because it has the appearance and viscosity of water, which makes thirsty toddlers drink it accidentally”.
Author(s) Details:
Ayobola Abolape Iyanda
Department of Chemical Pathology, College of Health Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Osogbo, Nigeria.
John I. Anetor
Department of Chemical Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Recent Global Research Developments in Factors in Kerosene Oil Poisoning in Children
Fuel Properties and Uses:
- Chemical Composition: Kerosene is a clear, thin liquid derived from petroleum. Its chemical composition mainly consists of carbon and hydrogen, making it a hydrocarbon with a formula range often noted as C<sub>12</sub>H<sub>26</sub> through C<sub>15</sub>H<sub>32</sub>.
- Physical Properties:
- Boiling Point: Ranges between 150°C and 300°C, making it less volatile than gasoline.
- Density: Typically around 0.81 kg/L at 20°C, allowing it to float on water.
- Flash Point: Approximately 38°C, indicating the lowest temperature at which its vapors can ignite.
- Viscosity: Relatively low, ensuring easy flow at normal temperatures.
- Energy Content: Roughly 43.1 MJ/kg, providing a robust energy source per unit mass.
- Heating Applications:
- Space Heaters: Used in portable heating units for homes and garages due to efficiency and quick warming of large spaces.
- Lamps: Historically used for lighting before widespread electricity availability.
- Cooking: In some regions, kerosene stoves are still used for cooking.
- Aviation Use:
- Jet Engines: Kerosene-based jet fuels (Jet A and Jet A-1) are preferred due to their high flash point and safety features. They perform well at various altitudes and temperatures.
- Safety: The high flash point reduces the risk of accidental ignitions in aviation fuels [1].
Societal Impact and Environmental Considerations:
- Carbon Emissions: Kerosene is a fossil fuel, contributing to carbon dioxide emissions when burned.
- Mitigation Efforts: Innovations in fuel technology and increased fuel efficiency aim to reduce environmental impacts.
For further reading, you can explore the references below:
- Kerosene | Fuel Properties, Uses in Heating and Aviation
- Impact of Sustainable Aviation Fuels on Aircraft Fuel Line Ice Formation
- Biological and Health Effects of Exposure to Kerosene-Based Jet Fuels [2,3]
References
- Kerosene | Fuel Properties, Uses in Heating and Aviation
https://www.thermal-engineering.org/kerosene-fuel-properties-uses-in-heating-and-aviation/ - Ugbeh-Johnson J, Carpenter M. The impact of sustainable aviation fuels on aircraft fuel line ice formation and pump performance. The Aeronautical Journal. 2023;127(1314):1287-1307. doi:10.1017/aer.2023.6
- Ritchie, G., Still, K., Rossi Iii, J., Bekkedal, M., Bobb, A., & Arfsten, D. (2003). Biological and health effects of exposure to kerosene-based jet fuels and performance additives. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part B, 6(4), 357-451.
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