C3+ refers to a hydrocarbon mixture obtained from the processing of crude oil or natural gas, consisting of molecules with three or more carbon atoms. This fraction includes compounds such as propane, propylene, butanes, butylenes, and heavier hydrocarbons. Due to its diverse composition, the C3+ stream serves as a versatile feedstock across numerous industrial applications.
These hydrocarbons are widely used in petrochemical production, fuel blending, and as heating fuels. For instance, propylene—a key C3 component—is a fundamental building block in the manufacture of plastics, synthetic fibers, and various chemical products. The exact composition and industrial value of C3+ fractions depend on both the source material and the specific refining or gas separation processes employed.
