Polystyrene process technologies and production economics are presented. Process descriptions for GPPS, HIPS and EPS are provided for licensed technologies along with cost of production estimates for USGC, Western Europe and China.  Demand by end use, capacity, and supply/demand/trade data is provided for global and regional markets.

Detailed analysis of developments in polyolefin technology and includes all major licensed technologies, as well as technologies not licensed but important to the polyolefin industry. Focuses on factors within the industry and the external market that shape technology development and competitive positioning.

Polyamides, often also referred to as nylons, are a major class of thermoplastic resins that are used in the production of fibers, films and molded articles.  Nylon 6 and nylon 6,6 are the most important and highest-volume types and are the focus of this report.  Nylon 6 is made by the ring-opening polymerization of caprolactam while nylon 6,6 is from the polycondensation of HMDA and adipic acid.  This PERP report provides an overview of the production, commercial technology, market and economics of nylon 6 and 6,6  polymers, including nylon 6,6 monomers and nylon compounds.  

The report provides an analysis of the commercial acetylene-based and ethylene-based technologies for the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), including a review of proprietary processes developed by major VAM producers. Cost of production estimates are included to illustrate the cost competitiveness of different routes in selected regions. A market review including regional capacities and supply/demand figures is also presented.