The chemistry, process technology and production economics of a new phenol process that give both acetone and MEK as byproducts is presented. The merits and drawbacks of this approach as compared to conventional phenol/acetone technology is highlighted.

The chemistry, process technology and production economics for caprolactam manufacture are provided. Supply/demand forecast out 2010 is also given.

Regional round-up of industry developments, regional pricing analysis and capacity expansions are provided for the fourth quarter, 2005. In addition, a discussion of on-purpose propylene technologies and market drivers is included.

Analysis of the refinery profitability and price projections for petroleum products and petrochemical feedstocks in Western Europe through to 2020.