General Specifications:

1. Chemical Nature:
   • Contains paraffinic (alkanes) and naphthenic (cycloalkanes) compounds.
   • Contains little or no aromatic compounds.
2. Physical Properties:
   • Boiling Range: 145 to 200°C.
   • Density: Approximately 0.78 to 0.82 g/cm³ (at 15°C).
   • Color: Clear and colorless liquid.
   • Viscosity: Relatively low.
3. Chemical Properties:
   • Non-polar, making it ideal for dissolving fatty and non-polar compounds.
   • Good chemical resistance against decomposition and unwanted reactions.

Heavy Alkyl Benzene (HAB)

Heavy Alkyl Benzene (HAB) is a by-product in the production of linear alkyl benzene (LAB). This compound contains longer and heavier alkyl chains attached to a benzene ring. Unlike LAB, which is used in detergent manufacturing, HAB is used in specific applications due to its different properties.

Chemical Composition:

• HAB is a mixture of aromatic hydrocarbons with heavier alkyl chains compared to LAB.
• It has longer and more complex alkyl chains, including compounds with higher molecular weight.

Physical Properties:

• Oily and relatively heavy liquid.
• Pale yellow to brown in color.
• Non-volatile, with a higher boiling point than LAB.

Chemical Properties:

• Soluble in hydrocarbons and non-polar organic compounds.
• High chemical stability under normal temperature and pressure.

Method of Production:

• HAB is produced as a by-product during the alkylation of benzene. In this process, alkenes or alkyl chlorides react with benzene in the presence of a catalyst, such as hydrofluoric acid or aluminum chloride. The heavier and longer alkyl chains, compared to LAB, are separated as HAB.

Applications:

1. Production of Industrial Oils:
   • Used as a raw material in the production of heat transfer oils and thermal oils.
2. Hydraulic Fluids:
   • Due to its high stability, HAB finds application in certain hydraulic fluids and industrial oils.
3. Production of Lubricants:
   • Used in the manufacture of heavy industrial lubricants that require high thermal resistance.
4. Polymer Products:
   • Utilized as a plasticizer and reinforcing agent in the production of certain plastics and rubbers.
5. Industrial Fuels:
   • In some cases, used as a fuel or a fuel additive to improve combustion efficiency.
6. Chemical Industry:
   • Serves as an intermediate in the production of specific chemicals or in other industrial processes.

Advantages:

• Thermal and Chemical Stability: HAB is resistant to high temperatures and harsh conditions.
• High Lubricity: Suitable for use in lubricants and industrial fluids.
• Cost-Effective: Being a by-product, the production cost of HAB is relatively low.

Disadvantages and Limitations:

• Limited Application in Detergents: Due to its heavier alkyl chain and branched structure, HAB is less biodegradable than LAB and not suitable for household detergents.
• Environmental Risks: If released into the environment, HAB can cause soil and water contamination.
• Limited Solubility: HAB typically has low solubility in polar compounds.

Comparison with Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB):