Benzol, commonly known as benzene, is a colorless liquid aromatic hydrocarbon produced primarily through the catalytic reforming of petroleum fractions or by catalytic cracking of coal tar. Its high purity form is obtained by distillation and subsequent purification steps to remove impurities such as sulfur and nitrogen compounds.

Containers for benzene must be certified for hazardous liquids, typically using stainless steel or polyethylene-lined drums with secondary containment. Shipping requires a proper hazardous material declaration, temperature control to prevent vapor buildup, and adherence to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.