As accepted by chemical engineers, the chemical industry involves the use of chemical processes such as
chemical reactions and refining methods to produce a wide variety of solid, liquid, and gaseous materials.
Most of these products are used in manufacture of other items, although a smaller number are used directly
by consumers. Solvents, pesticides, lye, washing soda, and portland cement are a few examples of product
used by consumers.
The industry includes manufacturers of inorganic- and organic-industrial chemicals, ceramic products,
petrochemicals, agrochemicals, polymers and rubber (elastomers), oleochemicals (oils, fats, and waxes),
explosives, fragrances and flavors.
Examples of these products are shown in the Table below.
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