Crude oil consists of a mixture of hydrocarbons (HCs) with different chemical compositions, but most exists as long chain HCs (e.g., mineral oil, naphthalenic and paraffinic), aromatics, and lighter short chain HCs. The aromatics and short chain HCs are commonly referred to as ‘lights’ and are more miscible in water than long chain HCs. Long chain HCs are particularly harmful to the environment due to their persistence in water and their tendency to form layers on top of water.

Lab Asia Dec 2025

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