News
New TECH Report - Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) (2024 Program)
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is one in a series of reports published as part of NexantECA’s 2024 Technoeconomics – Energy & Chemicals (TECH) program
Overview
The technology for producing polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is highly developed, with established licensed processes suited for diverse applications. Known for its optical clarity, UV resistance, and durability, PMMA is widely used as a glass substitute in sectors such as automotive, construction, and healthcare.
Polymethyl methacrylate is commonly produced through these four conventional processes:
- Mass Polymerization
- Solution Polymerization
- Emulsion Polymerization
- Suspension Polymerization
These processes allow producers to tailor PMMA properties for specific uses, from optical-grade sheets to molded components. Recent advances in recycling through depolymerization further support sustainable PMMA production by enabling its reuse in a closed-loop system.
This TECH report provides an updated overview of the conventional technologies and economic aspects of producing polymethyl methacrylate (e.g.). The following topics are addressed in this report:
- What are the main technologies employed to manufacture polymethyl methacrylate and how are they different from one another?
- What are some of the recent technology developments and bio-renewable routes for producing polymethyl methacrylate?
- What is the carbon intensity of each PMMA processes and how does it vary across different regions?
- How do the economics of various PMMA processes and technologies compare across global regions, and which areas offer the most attractive investment opportunities?
Commercial Technologies
This report covers six commercialized processes for PMMA production. Technology licensors include Sumitomo Chemical, Asahi Kasei, Evonik, Maxiglas, and Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation. Mitsubishi, Asahi Kasei, and Sumitomo employ continuous bulk polymerization methods, while Maxiglas uses continuous solution bulk polymerization, and Evonik utilizes the suspension polymerization method.
Process Economics
Detailed cost of production estimates for the major polymethyl methacrylate processes are presented in this report under a typical world scale design basis. Regional production economics and investment analysis are provided for the United States, Western Europe and China.
Regional Cost of Production Comparisons
Commercial Overview
PMMA serves diverse applications, with the advertising sector using it for visually appealing signage, while electronic appliances, construction and automotive sectors leverage its durability, aesthetics, and lightweight nature for various components.
The market for PMMA is analyzed on a global and regional basis for capacity with commentary around the key developments within the region.
Contact a member to our Insights & Analytics team to find out more about this report
About Us - NexantECA, the Energy and Chemicals Advisory company is the leading advisor to the energy, refining, and chemical industries. Our clientele ranges from major oil and chemical companies, governments, investors, and financial institutions to regulators, development agencies, and law firms. Using a combination of business and technical expertise, with deep and broad understanding of markets, technologies and economics, NexantECA provides solutions that our clients have relied upon for over 50 years.
