A process used to produce aromatic hydrocarbons by reforming straight-chain hydrocarbons in the C6 to C8 range from naphtha or gasoline fractions into compounds containing benzene rings. Hydrogen is produced as a by-product. The process is carried out at around 500°C and a pressure of 20 atmospheres in the presence of a catalyst. Various catalysts are used such as mixtures of platinum and aluminium oxide. Where platinum is used the process is known as platforming.