Reposted from @molecule_of_the_day (@get_regrann) - p-Xylene (para-xylene) is a colourless and highly flammable 🔥 liquid with an aromatic odour. The production of p-xylene is industrially 🏭 significant, with annual demand exceeding 37 million tonnes. It is produced from catalytic reforming and subsequent distillation of petroleum naphtha. Among other industrial applications, it is a raw material in the large scale synthesis 💥 of various polymers. It is a crucial component in the industrial synthesis of terephthalic acid, which is used in the production of polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Bottles made from PET plastic are widely used as containers for water 💧, sodas, and other beverages since PET is lightweight, shatter-resistant and strong. Interestingly, PET helps keep the fizz in carbonated beverages 🥤 because it has strong carbon dioxide barrier properties. Thanks 🙏 anonymous for the suggestion! The molecular structure was created using ChemDoodle. Be sure to follow them at @ichemlabs! #xylene #pxylene #petroleum #naphtha #polymer #plastic #polyester #pet #petbottle #plasticbottle #drink #soda #fizzy #beverage #photooftheday #chemistry #art #molecule - #regrann (en Urb Los Ficus - Santa Anita) https://www.instagram.com/p/B49j3kDlFkq/?igshid=hu411r39q369