An aromatic solvent is a solvent that contains an aromatic hydrocarbon such as naptha, toluene or xylene. Aromatic solvents are primarily used as solvents and diluents in various industrial fields. Aromatic solvents such as toluene are commonly used in paints, varnishes, adhesives and as chemical intermediates.
These solvents are mostly generated through distillation of crude petroleum stock in the oil refining industry. Aromatic solvents are mostly used as thinners and diluents in several end-user products, such as paints, coatings and cleaners. Aromatic solvents are also used as corrosion inhibitors in the oil and gas industry.