Condensate is a generic term used to describe a variety of very low-density, very low-viscosity, liquid hydrocarbons that typically occur along with natural gas. Condensates can exist separately from crude oil or combined with it.

The term applies equally to condensate pumped in its liquid form from a well ('lease' condensate) or processed and separated from natural gas at a gas plant ('plant' condensate).

Uses

Condensates are used as refinery feed stocks for the manufacture of products such as petrol (gasoline), jet fuel, diesel and heating fuels. Some condensates, particularly those with a high paraffin content, are used for the manufacture of ethylene.

Condensates are also used to dilute highly viscous heavier oils that cannot be efficiently transported via pipelines.