About the European Aromatics Industry
The Aromatics Producers Association (APA) is a sector group within the Association of Petrochemicals Producers in Europe (APPE), which is another name for the Petrochemistry Programme of the European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic).
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What are Aromatics?
Aromatics, so called because of their distinctive perfumed smell, are substances derived from crude oil and, in small quantities, from coal. Aromatics are hydrocarbons, organic compounds that consist exclusively of the elements carbon and hydrogen – without which life would not be possible on Earth.
Why Aromatics?
1The Science
Discover what we are doing to improving the scientific understanding of our products.
2A responsible Industry
We are committed to the responsible management of our products.
3The Chemistry
Learn more on the discovery, evolution and chemical structure or aromatics.
4Manufacturing
Find out more on what aromatics are made of and how they are manufactured.
Aromatics in everyday life
19 May 2025
Automotive
Aromatics are a key component in a wide range of automotive parts.
19 May 2025
Clothes
Scores of innovative fibres are available thanks to aromatics.
19 May 2025
Construction
The building and construction industry uses aromatics for a wide and growing range of applications.
19 May 2025
Electronics
DVDs, computer casings, keyboards, mobile phones all rely on aromatics.
19 May 2025
Healthcare
Aromatics play an essential part in manufacturing pharmaceuticals.
19 May 2025
Packaging
Aromatics make appliances and the food safer and easier to use.
19 May 2025
Sports and Leisure
Many light-weight, high-performance materials are based on aromatics.