Two major groups of base oils produced in the United States are naphthenic base oil and paraffinic base oil. Both of these are derived from the refinement of crude oil. The major differences between these two are molecular (paraffinic contains long chains of hydrocarbon molecules while naphthenic contains rings of hydrocarbon) and paraffinic oil contains paraffin wax while naphthenic oil does not. The absence of wax allows naphthenic oil to remain more stable and have lower pour points (remaining fluid in colder temperatures) than paraffinic oil. Both oils are widely used in the U.S. as a base for many different applications.
Naphthenic oil base can be used in newspaper- and magazine-printing ink. Naphthenic oil is virtually colorless and can be used for not only black ink but for color as well, states the Nynas-Naphthenic Magazine website. Previously, oils used for printing had to be blended with other elements to improve it's viscosity (ability to flow easily) whereas naphthenic oil needs no additional additives because of it's inherent high viscosity level.
According to the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center website, copper naphthenate is a wood preservative derived from the interaction of copper salts and naphthenate acid. It's primary use is for preserving wooden structures like bridges, fences and utility poles. This preservative can be purchased in most hardware and home improvement stores. The initial application appears green in color but over time turns brown. As with all chemicals, protective gloves and face masks should be worn during use.
Copper naphthenate (derived from naphthenic oil and copper salts) is a nonrestricted-use pesticide per EPA standards, according to the Turner- Fairbank Highway Research Center. This product has lower toxicity levels than some other pesticides but caution should be observed with it's use. Protective gear should be worn with application.
