What is Solvent 402?

Solvent 402 is a mid‑cut petroleum hydrocarbon that distills within the temperature range of 150–210 °C. Its composition includes linear and branched paraffins, cycloparaffins, and a small amount of aromatics. This structure gives the solvent a more balanced evaporation rate compared to lighter grades such as 401 or 4020, while offering higher solvency power and volatility than heavier solvents like 503.

In various industries, Solvent 402 is known as a Solvent Balance — a solvent with notable ability to dissolve resins, oils, and light polymers while having a controlled evaporation rate. This ensures that the coated surface dries smoothly without bubbles or streaks.

Production Process

This product is obtained from the distillation of mid‑range petroleum fractions located between kerosene and naphtha. Crude oil first enters the distillation column, where fractions with a defined boiling range are separated. The fraction with a boiling point between 150 and 210 °C is drawn off as the feed for Solvent 402. It then undergoes refining processes such as hydrotreating to remove impurities, resulting in a stable, high‑quality product that meets industrial standards.

Applications and Properties

Solvent 402 plays a key role in the paint and resin industry as an effective thinner in both industrial and architectural coatings, improving surface quality and preventing bubble formation. In the adhesive and rubber industry, it enhances flow properties and improves the final physical characteristics of products. It is also used as a base material in oil‑based thinners and certain chemical formulations.

Due to its good degreasing capability, it is widely used in industrial cleaners for washing equipment and machinery.

Physically, Solvent 402 is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid with a typical hydrocarbon odor. Its boiling range lies between 150 and 210 °C, and its composition is predominantly paraffinic and cycloparaffinic with limited amounts of aromatics.

The Iranian Market

In Iran, Solvent 402 is produced by major refineries such as Isfahan, Tabriz, Kermanshah, Tehran, and Bandar Abbas. Like similar products, it is officially traded via the Iran Energy Exchange. Demand for Solvent 402 remains stable, as downstream industries such as paint, resin, and adhesives are highly dependent on it.

Factors influencing its final price include crude oil prices, processing costs, refinery supply, and demand volume from end‑user industries.

Conclusion

Solvent 402 is a strategic industrial product positioned between light and heavy solvents. It offers a balanced combination of solvency power, stability, and evaporation rate, making it widely used — from paints and resins to adhesives and industrial detergents. Continuous domestic production and steady demand have secured its place as a key product in Iran’s petroleum‑based solvent market.