This report examines the economic evaluation of LDPE and LLDPE production: LDPE via tubular reactor and autoclave, LLDPE via Unipol, via Borstar slurry, Phillips slurry, Spherilene, Unipol II (enhance condensation), Innovene w/HPT, and bimodal with metallocenes. Regional supply/demand forecasts.

The commerical outlook for biodegradable polymers is presented. Polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkonates, polycaprolactone, polybutyl succinate, and polymer blends with starch are examined.

The latest technology advances in superabsorbent polymers is presented. Economics of starch based versus sodium acrylate are compared. Regional supply/demand forecasts.

The technology and economics of several high performance polyesters is presented including modified PET (with isophthalic acid or cyclohexyldimethanol), polyethylene naphthalate, and polytrimethylene terephthalate. Applications and markets are also discussed.