Ethane is a raw material in the petrochemical industry. Ethane is processed to make ethylene that is used to manufacture polyethylene . Polyethylene is a plastic that is used in a variety of products including housewares, insulation, packaging films, and toys. Ethylene is also used to manufacture ethylene oxide that is a raw material to make ethylene glycol or anti-freeze for car and truck engines. Ethylene oxide is also used in polyester fibers and film and latex paints.
Ethylene is combined with chlorine to make vinyl chloride .
Vinyl chloride is used to make polyvinyl chloride or PVC for pipes. Ethylene is also used to make vinyl acetate for paints and adhesives. Polystyrene manufactured from ethylene is used to make resins for rubber. Ethanol is also produced from ethylene. Propane and butane from natural are blended to produce LPG for cooking and heating.