Benzene

Benzene is the simplest aromatic carbon compound, a hydrocarbon with the chemical formulae C6H6. The benzene molecule is composed of six carbon atoms joined in a planar ring with one hydrogen atom attached to each.

In situ Production

There are a number of ways to produce benzene from methane and other simple hydrocarbons.

Benzene is a byproduct of ethylene production by steam reformation. This might be the first method used on Mars, as ethylene is required for a number of industrial processes, including the production of polyethylene plastic.

Other processes

Uses

Benzene is used to produce polyester (PET) though a number of alternate routes, in particular the production of Terephthalic acid (C6H4(CO2H)2) that is then reacted with ethylene glycol, to produce polyester.

Robert Zubrin suggested that Mars Direct ship Hydrogen to Mars in order to build fuel for the return vehicle. Later, he suggested shipping the hydrogen in the form of benzene, since benzene is space storable, and you wouldn't lose any to boil off.

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