Heavy Naphtha, also known as Naphthenic Naphtha, is a heavier hydrocarbon fraction obtained during the atmospheric distillation of crude oil, typically boiling between 90°C and 200°C. It is characterized by a higher concentration of naphthenes (cyclo-paraffins) and aromatics compared to light naphtha.
Due to its chemical composition and stability, Heavy Naphtha is a preferred feedstock for catalytic reforming units, producing high-octane reformate, hydrogen, and valuable aromatics such as benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX). It is extensively used in refineries, petrochemical complexes, and industrial solvent applications.
Key Characteristics
High Naphthene Content: Rich in cyclo-paraffins, enabling efficient conversion into aromatics during reforming.
Higher Boiling Range: Typically 90°C–200°C, offering greater thermal stability than light naphtha.
Good Solvency Power: Effective solvent properties for industrial and chemical processing.
Low Sulfur Potential: Can be hydrotreated to achieve very low sulfur levels for clean processing.
Typical Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Boiling Range | 90°C – 200°C |
| Density @ 15°C | 0.72 – 0.78 kg/L |
| Hydrocarbon Type | Naphthenes & Aromatics |
| Sulfur Content | Low (after hydrotreating) |
| Reid Vapor Pressure | Low |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless to pale yellow |
| Solvency Power | High |
Refining & Processing Characteristics
Primary Feedstock for Catalytic Reforming: Converts into high-octane reformate and hydrogen while producing BTX aromatics.
High Aromatics Yield: Naphthenes readily dehydrogenate into aromatics under reforming conditions.
Chemical Stability: Suitable for gasoline blending, petrochemical feedstock, and solvent production.
Hydrotreating Compatibility: Effectively treated to remove sulfur, nitrogen, and trace contaminants.
Applications of Heavy Naphtha
Refining: Feedstock for catalytic reforming units and gasoline blending.
Petrochemicals: Production of BTX aromatics and hydrogen-rich streams.
Industrial Solvents: Paints, coatings, resins, adhesives, and cleaning agents.
Chemical Processing: Intermediate feedstock for specialty chemicals and downstream synthesis.
Advantages of Heavy (Naphthenic) Naphtha
High reforming efficiency and aromatics yield
Stable and predictable processing behavior
Good solvency for industrial applications
Flexible hydrotreating and upgrading capability
Widely available from refinery distillation streams
Storage, Handling & Safety
Stored in carbon steel tanks with proper ventilation
Low vapor pressure reduces evaporation losses
Standard hydrocarbon handling and fire-safety procedures apply
Standards & Typical Specifications
ASTM refinery and petrochemical feedstock guidelines
Refinery-specific product specifications
Export grades customized as per buyer requirements