Glossary

Our glossary explains technical terms from the area water research. We hope it facilitates the understanding of this publication. If you have comments or suggestions, please use our feedback form!

Aromatic hydrocarbons

The aromatic hydrocarbons benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, xylene (►BTEX aromatics) are contained in coal tar but usually obtained from crude oil. They increase the octane number of petrol and are also used as solvents and degreasing agents or as raw materials in the chemical industry. Aromatic hydrocarbons are generally highly toxic and – at least in the case of benzene – carcinogenic.