How do you make kerosene for treating lice? - briefly
Kerosene is obtained by fractional distillation of crude oil in a refinery, where the middle‑boiling fraction is separated and refined to meet fuel specifications. Home production is impractical and unsafe, so commercially purchased kerosene should be used if it is employed for lice treatment.
How do you make kerosene for treating lice? - in detail
Kerosene used as a lice‑removing agent is produced through a fractional distillation of crude oil. The process involves several precise steps:
- Feedstock selection – Obtain a light petroleum fraction that contains hydrocarbons in the C10‑C16 range. This material is typically sourced from a refinery’s naphtha stream.
- Pre‑heating – Raise the temperature of the feedstock to 150–200 °C to reduce viscosity and promote even vaporization.
- Distillation column operation – Introduce the heated feed into a tray or packed column. Maintain a reflux ratio of 1.5–2.0 and a column pressure of 1–2 atm. Collect the distillate that boils between 150 °C and 250 °C; this cut corresponds to the kerosene range.
- Fractional separation – Separate the kerosene fraction from lighter gasoline cuts and heavier diesel fractions by adjusting the temperature gradient along the column. Use temperature sensors to ensure the target boiling range is not exceeded.
- Purification – Pass the collected kerosene through a de‑acidification unit (alkaline wash) to remove acidic contaminants. Follow with a water wash and a final drying stage using anhydrous calcium chloride or a molecular sieve.
- Quality testing – Measure flash point (minimum 38 °C), viscosity (1.5–2.5 cSt at 40 °C), and sulfur content (<0.05 %). Ensure the product meets safety specifications for topical use.
- Packaging – Transfer the purified kerosene into sealed, amber‑colored containers to protect against light degradation. Label with hazard warnings, usage instructions, and expiration date.
Safety considerations
- Perform all steps in a well‑ventilated area with explosion‑proof equipment.
- Wear flame‑resistant clothing, chemical‑resistant gloves, and eye protection.
- Store raw petroleum fractions and the final product away from ignition sources.
- Dispose of wash water and waste solvents according to local hazardous‑waste regulations.
Application guidelines
- Dilute the kerosene to a 10 % solution with a neutral carrier oil (e.g., mineral oil) before topical use.
- Apply to the scalp with a fine‑toothed comb, allowing the liquid to contact lice for 5–10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and a mild shampoo.
- Repeat the treatment after 7 days to eliminate any newly hatched nymphs.
The described procedure yields a kerosene product suitable for lice eradication while adhering to chemical‑safety standards.