BTEX

BTEX or BTXE is an abbreviation for the aromatic hydrocarbons benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and the xylenes. These products are considered to volatile organic compounds. The raw materials for the petrochemical industry, the BTEX are important. Without the short form ethylbenzene BTX is in use.

Toluene

Ethylbenzene

Ortho-xylene

Environmental hazards

These substances may in certain solvents, waste deposits (such as from gas stations), exhaust gases of motor vehicles or by seepage of fuels as pollutants into groundwater and thus also into drinking water. The toxic effect is to liver damage and chronic nerve damage. Benzene is also carcinogenic.