naphthenic acid

noun

: any of numerous chiefly monocarboxylic acids derived from naphthenes and obtained from naphthene-base and asphalt-base petroleums
usually : a commercial viscous liquid mixture of such acids used especially in the form of salts (as copper naphthenate) as paint driers and preservatives for wood and textiles see metallic soap

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Cite this Entry

“Naphthenic acid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naphthenic%20acid. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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