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Petroleum Naphtha

  • Aliphatic solvents
  • CAS 8032-32-4
  • IUPAC: Petroleum distillates (light)

Petroleum Naphtha (CAS 8032-32-4) appears in 7 of the 1,812 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026). It is classified as a VOC.

Moderate inhalation hazard — CNS depressant, mucous membrane irritant. Degreases skin on contact. Flammable. Use with ventilation.

Petroleum naphtha is the traditional solvent in paste waxes, tar removers, and adhesive removers. It dissolves petroleum-based contaminants (tar, asphalt, adhesive residue) effectively because "like dissolves like."

Health profile requires attention: VOC content is high, it's flammable, and sustained inhalation causes dizziness and headache. Use outdoors or with open-garage ventilation. Not something to spray in an enclosed space. Products with naphtha will always carry a WARNING or DANGER signal word.

Environmentally, naphtha is moderately aquatic-toxic before it evaporates. Keep runoff out of storm drains. Biodegrades in soil over weeks.

Health & environment profile

VOC
yes
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
yes
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
2/5
Purpose: Wax/tar solvent carrier

Common questions about Petroleum Naphtha

What is Petroleum Naphtha used for in car care?
Wax/tar solvent carrier
Is Petroleum Naphtha a VOC?
Yes. Petroleum Naphtha is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Petroleum Naphtha on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Petroleum Naphtha is not on California's Proposition 65 list.
Is Petroleum Naphtha biodegradable?
Yes. Petroleum Naphtha has a confirmed biodegradable profile.

7 products contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.