The chemistry, process technology and production economics of detergent alcohols, both synthetic and natural, are presented. In addition to the technoeconomic analysis, the supply/demand outlook and the key strategic issues are discussed.

The process technology and production economics of natural fatty acids, fatty amines, fatty alcohols, and natural linear alcohols are presented. The production economics of synthetic detergent range alcohols are provided as basis for comparison.

Technology and economics of Asahi's Alpha process. Regional supply/demand forecasts.

The chemistry and economics of Phillips' new ethylene trimerization process is analyzed and compared to conventional LAO processes.