The Definitive List of 365 Products Made from Oil / Petroleum

It is almost incomprehensible how many products are made with crude oil and petroleum. Our modern lives would literally stop without it.

While us oilfield hands understand this deeply. Much of the general public do not realize that over 6,000 products are made from this valuable resource.

Only 72%??? That is a problem. 

The American public should have a full understanding of their energy supply and how modern products are made.

Keep reading to find the largest list of products made with oil on the internet.

What is Crude Oil?

Crude oil is a naturally occurring, unrefined petroleum product that is found beneath the Earth's surface. It is formed over millions of years by the decomposition of organic matter such as plankton and algae, which are buried under sedimentary rocks and subjected to high pressure and temperature.

Crude oil is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, which are compounds made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms. The composition of crude oil varies depending on its source and can contain other substances such as sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen.

Crude oil is one of the most important natural resources in the world and is used to produce a wide range of products, including gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, lubricants, and plastics. The process of refining crude oil involves separating and purifying the different components of the crude oil mixture to produce these products.

What are Petroleum Products?

Petroleum products are a wide range of products that are derived from crude oil through refining processes. These products include gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, heating oil, propane, and others.

But when I say others, I mean over 6,000 everyday items, products, and necessities that we could not live without.

Gasoline is the most commonly used petroleum product and is used as a fuel for vehicles. Diesel fuel is another important petroleum product and is used as a fuel for heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks and buses. Jet fuel is used to power aircraft, while heating oil is used to heat buildings.

Petroleum products are also used to produce a variety of other products, including lubricants, asphalt for road construction, plastics, synthetic fibers, and chemicals used in the production of pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and other industrial products.

Overall, petroleum products are essential to the global economy, providing energy and raw materials for a wide range of industries and applications.

US Petroleum Consumption by Type

Source: US Energy Information Administration, 2021

List of Products made from Oil & Petroleum

The following list is broken down into 21 categories. Each category has a brief list of products made from oil and petroleum.

This list is not comprehensive. It is only a sample of more than 6,000+ products. A list which is growing every day.

Adhesives and Sealants

Adhesives and sealants are substances used to bond or seal two surfaces together. Adhesives are typically used to join materials permanently, while sealants are used to fill gaps or prevent the passage of air or fluids between two surfaces. They come in a variety of forms, including liquids, pastes, tapes, and films, and can be applied using different methods, such as brushing, spraying, or injecting.

Adhesives and sealants are used in a wide range of industries, including construction, automotive, aerospace, and electronics, and are essential for the production of many consumer goods. They provide strength, durability, and reliability, and can be tailored to specific requirements, such as temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and flexibility.

Here is a list of adhesives and sealants made with oil and petroleum products:

Asphalt

Asphalt, also known as bitumen, is a sticky, black, highly viscous liquid or semi-solid material derived from petroleum. It is a naturally occurring substance that can also be produced by refining crude oil. Asphalt is widely used in the construction industry for paving roads, highways, parking lots, and airport runways. It is also used as a waterproofing and roofing material.

Asphalt is a durable and cost-effective material that is resistant to weathering, water, and chemicals. It can be applied in various forms, including hot mix asphalt, warm mix asphalt, and cold mix asphalt, depending on the temperature at which it is used. The properties of asphalt can be modified to meet specific requirements, such as increasing its resistance to deformation or improving its flexibility at low temperatures.

Here is a list of asphalt products made with oil and petroleum products:

Batteries

Batteries are electrochemical devices that convert stored chemical energy into electrical energy. They consist of one or more electrochemical cells, which are connected in series or parallel to increase the voltage or current output. Each cell contains two electrodes, a positive electrode or cathode, and a negative electrode or anode, separated by an electrolyte. When a load is connected to the electrodes, a chemical reaction occurs in the electrolyte, generating an electrical current that can be used to power devices such as flashlights, smartphones, and electric vehicles.

Batteries come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and chemistries, each with its own characteristics, advantages, and limitations. Common types of batteries include alkaline, lithium-ion, lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, and nickel-metal hydride. The performance of batteries can be affected by various factors, such as temperature, aging, and usage patterns.

The development of more efficient, durable, and environmentally friendly batteries is a key focus of research and innovation, as batteries play an increasingly important role in powering our modern world.

Here is a list of batteries made with oil and petroleum products:

Chemicals

Petroleum-based chemicals are chemicals that are derived from crude oil. Petroleum-based chemicals are widely used in various industries, such as plastics, rubber, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. They are typically produced by refining crude oil into different fractions, such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, and then further processing these fractions to obtain various chemicals.

Common petroleum-based chemicals include ethylene, propylene, benzene, toluene, xylene, and styrene, which are used to produce a wide range of products, such as plastics, synthetic fibers, adhesives, solvents, and resins. Petroleum-based chemicals are valued for their versatility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

Here is a list of chemicals made with oil and petroleum products:

Consumer Products

Consumer products are goods and services that are purchased and used by individuals for personal, household, or recreational purposes. They can be tangible products, such as clothing, food, electronics, and furniture, or intangible services, such as healthcare, education, and entertainment. Consumer products can be further classified into convenience products, shopping products, specialty products, and unsought products, based on the buying behavior of consumers.

Consumer products play a significant role in our daily lives and are produced and marketed by a wide range of businesses, from small local shops to multinational corporations. The production, marketing, and disposal of consumer products can have environmental, social, and economic impacts, such as resource depletion, pollution, and waste generation.

Here is a list of consumer products made with oil and petroleum products:

Cosmetics

Cosmetic products are personal care products used to enhance or alter the appearance of the face, body, or hair. They can be applied topically and come in various forms, such as creams, lotions, powders, gels, and sprays. Common types of cosmetic products include makeup, skincare products, hair care products, fragrances, and personal hygiene products.

Cosmetic products are widely used by people of all ages and genders and can serve different purposes, such as improving skin hydration, protecting from UV radiation, or covering imperfections. They can be produced by various manufacturers, ranging from small artisanal producers to large multinational corporations.

Here is a list of cosmetics made with oil and petroleum products:

Detergents & Cleaning Products

Detergents and cleaning products are household and industrial chemicals used for cleaning, disinfecting, and removing dirt, stains, and odors from various surfaces and materials. They come in various forms, such as powders, liquids, sprays, and wipes, and can be formulated for specific purposes, such as laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, surface cleaners, and bathroom cleaners.

Detergents and cleaning products are typically composed of a mixture of surfactants, enzymes, builders, and other ingredients that help to loosen and remove dirt and stains. Some cleaning products also contain disinfectants, such as bleach or alcohol, to kill bacteria and viruses.

Here is a list of detergents and cleaning products made with oil and petroleum products:

Electrical Equipment

Electrical equipment refers to any device or appliance that uses electricity to perform a specific function or task. This includes a wide range of products, from small household appliances, such as toasters and hair dryers, to large industrial machinery, such as generators and transformers.

Electrical equipment may include various components, such as circuit boards, motors, and sensors. 

The use of electrical equipment has revolutionized many aspects of modern life, from communication and transportation to manufacturing and healthcare. However, the production and use of electrical equipment can also have environmental and health impacts, such as energy consumption, electronic waste generation, and exposure to electromagnetic fields.

Here is a list of electrical equipment made with oil and petroleum products:

Food Additives

Food additives are substances added to food during production or processing to improve its appearance, taste, texture, and shelf life. They can be natural or synthetic and include a wide range of substances, such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring agents, and stabilizers.

Food additives play an important role in modern food production, allowing for the creation of a wider variety of foods that are more convenient, flavorful, and visually appealing. However, concerns have been raised about the safety and health impacts of some food additives, particularly synthetic ones, and their potential to cause allergic reactions or other adverse effects.

Here is a list of food additives made with oil and petroleum products:

Fuel

Fuel is a substance that is burned to provide energy, typically for transportation, heating, or power generation. It can be in the form of a solid, liquid, or gas, and is typically made from fossil fuels, such as oil, coal, and natural gas, or renewable sources, such as biomass and biofuels.

Fuels are used in various applications, from powering cars and trucks to heating homes and generating electricity. The choice of fuel depends on factors such as availability, cost, efficiency, and environmental impact.

Here is a list of fuels made with oil and petroleum products:

Inks

Inks are a type of liquid or paste used for writing, printing, or drawing on various surfaces, such as paper, fabric, or plastic. They are typically composed of pigments, binders, and solvents, and may include other additives to improve their properties, such as drying time and color intensity.

Inks come in various forms and colors, and are used for a wide range of applications, from printing newspapers and books to creating artworks and tattoos. The type of ink used depends on the intended application, and may require special formulations, such as UV-resistant or waterproof inks.

Here is a list of inks made with oil and petroleum products:

Lubricants

Lubricants are substances used to reduce friction and wear between two surfaces in motion. They are typically liquids or greases made from a variety of materials, including mineral oils, synthetic oils, and vegetable oils. Lubricants work by forming a protective film between the moving surfaces, reducing friction and preventing damage from heat and wear.

Lubricants have a wide range of applications, from automotive engines and industrial machinery to household appliances and medical devices. They can also be used for other purposes, such as cooling and cleaning.

The choice of lubricant depends on various factors, such as the type of equipment, the operating conditions, and the desired performance characteristics.

Here is a list of lubricants made with oil and petroleum products:

Medical Equipment & Supplies

Medical equipment and supplies are devices, instruments, and tools used in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of medical conditions. They can range from simple devices such as thermometers and stethoscopes, to complex machines such as MRI scanners and surgical robots. Medical supplies can include items such as bandages, syringes, and surgical gloves.

Medical equipment and supplies play a critical role in modern healthcare, enabling medical professionals to provide effective and efficient care to patients. The choice of equipment and supplies depends on various factors, such as the type of medical condition, the location and resources of the healthcare facility, and the patient's individual needs.

Here is a list of medical equipment and supplies made with oil and petroleum products:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to equipment designed to protect workers from potential hazards that may cause injury or illness in the workplace. PPE includes items such as safety glasses, gloves, helmets, respirators, and full-body suits. PPE is used in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and emergency services.

PPE is used to protect workers from a variety of hazards, including physical, chemical, biological, and radiological hazards. The use of PPE is often required by law or regulations, and employers are responsible for providing and maintaining appropriate PPE for their workers.

Here is a list of personal protective equipment made with oil and petroleum products:

Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals are drugs and medications used to prevent, treat, or cure medical conditions. They are typically produced through a complex process of research, development, and testing, and are subject to strict regulatory requirements to ensure their safety, efficacy, and quality. Pharmaceuticals can be classified based on their mode of action, chemical structure, and therapeutic use.

Pharmaceuticals have revolutionized modern medicine, enabling the treatment of a wide range of medical conditions, from infectious diseases to chronic illnesses such as cancer and diabetes. They can be administered in various forms, including pills, capsules, injectables, and topical creams.

Here is a list of pharmaceuticals made with oil and petroleum products:

Paints & Coatings

Paints and coatings are liquid or solid substances that are applied to a surface to protect, decorate, or enhance its appearance. They are made up of a mixture of ingredients, including pigments, binders, solvents, and additives, which determine their properties such as color, durability, and texture.

Paints and coatings have a wide range of applications, from architectural and automotive coatings to industrial coatings and marine paints. They can be applied to various surfaces such as wood, metal, concrete, and plastic.

Here is a list of paints and coatings made with oil and petroleum products:

Plastics

Plastics are synthetic materials made from polymers, which are long chains of molecules. They can be molded into various shapes and forms through processes such as injection molding and extrusion. Plastics can be classified into different types based on their chemical structure and properties.

Plastics have a wide range of applications, from packaging materials and household items to automotive parts and electronics. They are popular due to their versatility, durability, and low cost.

Here is a list of plastics made with oil and petroleum products:

Rubber Products

Rubber products are items made from natural or synthetic rubber materials. They are known for their elasticity, resilience, and durability, and can be molded into various shapes and forms through processes such as compression molding and injection molding.

Rubber products have a wide range of applications, from automotive and industrial products to consumer goods and medical devices. They can be found in products such as tires, gaskets, seals, hoses, gloves, and footwear.

Here is a list of rubber products made with oil and petroleum products:

Synthetic Fibers

Synthetic fibers are man-made fibers produced from chemical substances. They are designed to mimic the properties of natural fibers such as cotton, silk, and wool, but with improved performance characteristics such as strength, durability, and resistance to moisture and chemicals.

The most common types of synthetic fibers include polyester, nylon, acrylic, and polypropylene. These fibers are widely used in clothing, upholstery, carpets, and industrial applications such as ropes and hoses.

Here is a list of synthetic fibers made with oil and petroleum products:

Synthetic Rubber

Synthetic rubber is a man-made elastomer material that has properties similar to natural rubber but is produced using chemical processes rather than from the sap of rubber trees. It is typically made from petroleum-based feedstocks, including styrene, butadiene, and isoprene, and can be synthesized through processes such as polymerization and copolymerization.

Synthetic rubber has a wide range of applications, including in the production of tires, hoses, belts, and seals. It is known for its durability, resilience, and resistance to abrasion, heat, and chemicals.

Here is a list of synthetic rubber made with oil and petroleum products:

Wax

Waxes are a diverse group of organic compounds that are solid at room temperature but melt at relatively low temperatures. They are composed of long-chain hydrocarbons and typically have a crystalline or amorphous structure.

Waxes have a wide range of applications, including in the production of candles, polishes, coatings, and cosmetics. They are known for their water-repellent, protective, and adhesive properties. They can also be used as a lubricant and as a component in printing inks and adhesives.

Here is a list of waxes made with oil and petroleum products: