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The mysterious composition of coal tar: Why is its chemical structure so complex and fascinating?
Coal tar is a thick, dark liquid byproduct of the production of coke and gas from coal. This compound is not only a resin-like compound, but also has a wide range of applications in medical and industrial fields. It is primarily used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, and is also used in medical light therapy. The complex chemical structure and composition of coal tar have become a hot topic of discussion in the scientific community, and have also made its application in medicine and industry gain an important position.
There are approximately 100,000 chemical components of coal tar, but only about fifty are currently known.
The composition of coal tar varies depending on the type of coal (such as lignite, bituminous, or anthracite) and the production process. This complex substance is mainly composed of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and various other compounds. Its various components give coal tar antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and antiparasitic properties, making it highly valued for its medical applications.
Composition and uses of coal tar
Coal tar, produced from burning coal, contains hundreds of identified chemicals. Combinations of these compounds include, but are not limited to, aromatic rings, alcohols, phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and the like. Many of these compounds are known carcinogens. When we gain a deeper understanding of these ingredients, we can uncover the mystery of coal tar.
The exact mechanism of action of coal tar is still not fully understood, but it is a keratolytic agent that slows the growth rate of skin cells and softens the stratum corneum.
The medical use of coal tar mainly lies in its ability to effectively treat skin diseases such as psoriasis. The World Health Organization has included coal tar in its list of essential medicines, demonstrating its importance in the global health system. Whether it was shampoo, soap or ointment manufactured by drug manufacturers, coal tar played a key role.
Industrial Applications of Coal Tar
In industry, coal tar is primarily used as a sealer for road pavement materials, a technology developed by Edgar Purneholi, the inventor of the first sealed road. Even today, many coal tar-based pavement sealing products are still widely used in cities across the United States. However, due to environmental health concerns raised by PAHs, several cities have banned the use of coal tar in pavement sealing products.
According to the study, the total value of coal tar trading is approximately $20 billion per year, highlighting the important role it still plays in today's world.
Coal tar also plays an essential role in the manufacture of paints, synthetic dyes and other industrial chemicals. Its use as a raw material in the production of carbon black and arc furnace electrode paste has caused the value of coal tar to rise year by year.
Safety and Risk
Although coal tar is widely used in medical treatments, it does have some side effects, including skin irritation and sun allergies. In studies looking at these potential risks, long-term exposure to coal tar has been found to increase the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer. It is very important to ensure that these drugs are used with caution.
Many critics have said that tighter regulation of coal tar products is necessary, especially in light of public health concerns.
In terms of regulation, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set clear regulations on the use of coal tar to protect workers from possible health hazards. At the same time, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also regulates its use as an over-the-counter drug to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Future development of coal tar
With the advancement of science and technology and the emphasis on environmental health, the future development direction of coal tar needs to be explored urgently. Its application in medicine and industry remains a hot topic of research. With more research progress, coal tar may release greater potential and create more value for modern medicine and industry.
In front of such a chemical with a long history, we can't help but wonder whether the rich potential of coal tar will drive a new round of scientific discoveries and technological innovations?
