Current and developing xylenes production technologies are reviewed. Cost estimates have been developed for p-xylene production via a number of process technologies (e.g. EB Isomerization & Dealkylation, TDP & Selective TDP/Crystallization, PxMaxSM/Crystallization, C9 Transalkylation/Adsorption/Isomerization, Hydrotreating/Reforming etc) and m-xylene production via UOP MX Sorbex technology.

Technology and cost of production estimates to convert biomass into acetyls at commercial scale capacities based on both fermentation and thermochemical (gasification) platforms is reviewed. Acetyl integration opportunities and economics of acetic anhydride, VAM, and ethyl/butyl acetates produced via traditional petrochemical routes are compared to the potential "green" routes.

Commercial phosphoric acid technologies, including those on offer from Technips, Prayon and Jacobs Engineering are discussed. Recent developments are reviewed. Cost of production estimates for the hemihydrate and dihydrate processes are given.

Current process technology, economics and trends are given for the leading thermoplastic resin processing technologies inlcuding: compounding, blown film extrusion, bi-axially oriented polypropylene film and thermoforming. A market overview on end-uses of such fabricated processes for North America is provided.