Coal Tar

Coal tar is a thick, dark liquid which is a by-product of the production of coke and coal gas from coal. It has both medical and industrial uses. It can be used in medicated shampoo, soap and ointment, as a treatment for dandruff and psoriasis, as well as being used to kill and repel head lice.

Medical Uses

Coal tar is used in medicated shampoo, soap and ointment. It demonstrates antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and antiparasitic properties. It may be applied topically as a treatment for dandruff and psoriasis, and to kill and repel head lice. This is considered to be a first-line treatment for both conditions.

Coal tar is also used in combination with ultraviolet light therapy. Patients using coal tar should routinely have a skin examination due to the risk of skin cancer.

Industrial Uses

In industry, coal tar is considered a valuable commodity for its numerous chemical components such as naphthalene, benzene, phenol, aniline, and many others. These chemicals are used in the production of dyes, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and synthetic fibers.

Coal tar is also used for surface sealing of roads and airfields, particularly in the production of bitumen which is an essential component of asphalt.

Safety and Health Risks

Exposure to coal tar pitch volatiles can occur in the workplace by breathing, skin contact, or eye contact. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified coal tar as Group 1, carcinogenic to humans.

Long-term exposure to coal tar products can potentially cause skin cancer. Frequent skin examinations are recommended for people who use these products.

See Also

• Coke (fuel)
• Coal gas
• Dandruff
• Psoriasis
• Head lice
• Skin examination
• Naphthalene
• Benzene
• Phenol
• Aniline
• Bitumen
• International Agency for Research on Cancer