Kerosene, also known as paraffin or lamp oil, is one of the most important and versatile petroleum products derived from the fractional distillation of crude oil. It has been a reliable source of energy for more than a century, used across homes, transportation, industry, and even aviation. Despite the rise of renewable energy sources, kerosene continues to play a crucial role in global energy systems—particularly in developing regions and in specialized industrial uses.
What Is Kerosene?
Kerosene is a clear, flammable hydrocarbon liquid obtained from crude oil between the distillation range of 150°C and 275°C. It contains a mixture of carbon chains, generally C10 to C16. Its chemical stability, moderate volatility, and high flash point make it safer to store and transport compared to gasoline or diesel. Because of these properties, kerosene has become the preferred fuel for heating and lighting where electricity or natural gas is unavailable.
Historical Background
The discovery of kerosene dates back to the mid‑19th century, when chemists learned how to refine crude oil to produce a cleaner alternative to whale oil for lamps. Dr. Abraham Gesner, a Canadian geologist, is credited with coining the term “kerosene” around 1854. In the decades that followed, kerosene lamps illuminated homes and streets worldwide, powering the first wave of the energy revolution before electricity became widespread.
Production and Refining Process
Modern kerosene is produced through fractional distillation in oil refineries. Crude oil is heated to separate its components by boiling point. Kerosene’s fraction is drawn off between gasoline and diesel ranges. The raw cut then goes through treating and desulfurization, where impurities and sulfur compounds are removed to improve color, odor, and environmental performance. The result is a nearly colorless, stable fuel with broad applications.
Different refining techniques yield kerosene suited for specific purposes. Aviation-grade kerosene (Jet-A or JP-8) undergoes extra purification to ensure stable combustion in turbine engines and good performance in freezing temperatures. Household kerosene is refined for minimal odor and smooth burning in heaters and stoves.
Major Uses of Kerosene
1. Household and Domestic Use
In many rural areas, kerosene remains a vital source of heat and light. It powers portable heaters, cook stoves, and lamps. Because it burns steadily and produces moderate heat, it is especially useful in regions with unreliable electricity.
2. Aviation Fuel
Kerosene forms the basis of jet fuels such as Jet‑A, JP‑5, and JP‑8, powering most aircraft engines around the world. It provides high energy density and clean combustion, which ensures both performance and safety at extreme altitudes.
3. Industrial and Commercial Applications
Kerosene serves as a solvent and degreasing agent in workshops. It is also used in metal processing, painting, and cleaning machinery. In agriculture, it acts as a carrier fluid for pesticides and as a component of some lubricants.
4. Heating and Energy Generation
In colder climates, kerosene is still used for space heating, particularly in portable and emergency systems. It also powers small generators in off‑grid areas, offering a dependable backup energy source.
Safety Measures and Storage
Although kerosene is safer than gasoline, it still requires cautious handling. The fuel should be stored in labeled, tightly sealed metal or plastic containers, away from sparks, flames, or direct sunlight. Always avoid mixing kerosene with gasoline or diesel. When used indoors, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent buildup of fumes and carbon monoxide.
Accidental ingestion or inhalation can be harmful, so it must be kept away from children and food storage areas. In aviation and industrial environments, operators use advanced filtration and monitoring systems to prevent contamination or water condensation in fuel tanks.
Environmental and Economic Impact
Kerosene’s environmental footprint depends largely on how it is produced and consumed. Traditional combustion can release sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter that contribute to air pollution. Modern refineries, however, are adopting low-sulfur technologies and catalytic purification methods to minimize emissions.
From an economic perspective, kerosene holds unique importance in developing nations, where it supports everyday life and infrastructure. Although renewable energy technologies such as solar or biogas are expanding rapidly, kerosene still provides affordable and transportable energy for millions of households.
Comparing Kerosene with Other Fuels
When compared with gasoline, kerosene has a higher flash point, meaning it is less likely to ignite accidentally. Against diesel, it burns cleaner and produces fewer residues. However, its energy density is slightly lower. For aviation, no direct alternative yet matches kerosene’s combination of energy output and stability under extreme conditions, though research into bio‑kerosene is advancing.
Future of Kerosene in the Energy Transition
As the world moves toward sustainable energy, kerosene is evolving rather than disappearing. Refiners are developing bio‑based kerosene from renewable feedstocks such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and waste biomass. These “synthetic kerosenes” are compatible with existing jet engines and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Government policies encouraging cleaner fuels and carbon reduction have accelerated innovation in this area. By investing in modernization and environmental management, the petroleum sector aims to keep kerosene relevant in a decarbonizing world economy.
Conclusion
Kerosene remains one of the most adaptable fuels humanity has ever produced. Its balance of energy efficiency, safety, and versatility ensures it will continue to serve households, industries, and aviation for years to come. Understanding how kerosene is refined, used, and evolving toward cleaner forms allows consumers, engineers, and policymakers to make informed choices about energy use in a changing world.
