This report provides an overview of commercial and developing technologies for the by-product and on-purpose production of propylene, the second most used chemical in terms of global volumes after ethylene. By-product propylene technologies include naphtha cracking, conventional and enhanced fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) of vacuum gas oil and atmospheric residue. This is followed by on-purpose propylene technologies that include residual grade propylene fractionation, propane dehydrogenation, metathesis, olefins catalytic conversion/cracking and methanol-based processes. The technoeconomic and carbon intensity analysis of the technologies in four regions (Middle East, United States, Western Europe, and China) are discussed, with coal-based processes included for China. Emerging or developing technologies that have the potential to decarbonize propylene production are also discussed. Cash margins for the commercial technologies by regions are correlated to the carbon intensities (scope 1 and 2), with a breakeven carbon cost analysis for fluidized bed catalytic crackers that are integrated with carbon capture systems. Global propylene capacity by producer is provided.

The report provides an extensive analysis of packaging design for recyclability, examining the mechanics and economics of blown film extrusion, cast film extrusion, bi-axially oriented film extrusion, and thermoforming across three key regions: the United States Gulf Coast (USGC), Western Europe, and China, referencing Q2 2023 pricing data. The report delves into the carbon intensity of these processes measured in tons of CO2 equivalent per ton of produced material. The report covers the fundamentals of the recycling value chain for both mechanical and chemical recycling, analyzing recyclable contents beyond plastic as well, and offering insights into recycling practices for aluminum, corrugated cardboard, mixed paper, and glass. The report examines the factors affecting the recyclability of plastic packaging, the obstacles to achieving effective recyclable packaging, touching on technological limitations, regulatory factors, and material availability, and discusses the dynamics of global harmonization and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes. The report also analyses various polymer types and their suitability for recycling, building on the earlier discussions of material requirements and recycling challenges.

Market Insights: Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) - 2023 provides analysis and forecast to 2035 of supply and demand of the global ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) market.  UHMWPE end-use demand is segmented by textiles, mechanical equipment, batteries, medical and others.   Market Insights: Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) - 2023 includes discussion regarding key market drivers and constraints, as well as supply, demand and trade analysis for nine regions: North America, South America, Western Europe, Central Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and China.  Analysis also includes the competitive landscape, capacity listing and cost competitiveness along with a snapshot of latest pricing trends by region.

Market Analytics: Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer - 2023 provides an analysis of the global ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) with forecasts to 2045.  This analysis will identify the issues shaping the industry as well as provide demand, supply and net trade data for 40 countries.EPDM is a commodity elastomer produced from ethylene, propylene and a termonomer such as dicyclopentadiene (DCDP), ethylidene norbornene (ENB) or vinyl norbornene (VNB), which are also produced in steam crackers.  EPDM is rarely used alone.  Rather, this material is usually used in conjunction with a host of other additives that are designed to improve specific properties, reduce cost and improve processability.