This report assesses the relative economics and competitiveness of U.S. ethane exports versus domestic use for petrochemical production and compare it with various MTO options.  U.S. ethane supply and demand is forecasted to 2030.

The chemistry and process technology for sulfuric acid production are reviewed.  Detailed descriptions and process economics are presented for the double absorption contact process and the wet sulfuric acid (WSA) contact process. Global and regional supply/demand balances are also given.

HDPE/High Density Polyethylene (Ziegler Slurry, Slurry Loop, Gas Phase, Solution) process technologies from all major technology holders are discussed and cost of production estimates given for the USGC, China, and Middle East.  Regional supply, demand and trade data are also included.

First-generation fermentation ethanol and top synthetic ethanol production technologies are discussed in the context of today’s challenging strategic and policy and environment.  Technologies, economics, and markets are covered in detail.  Detailed technology descriptions and local economics are given for corn dry milling ethanol production in the US Midwest, the Celanese TCX process in the USGC, and an advanced milling process in Brazil.