Show Denko's new process for converting ethylene directly to acetic acid is discussed. The economics of this new process is compared to conventional methanol carbonylation route. Regional supply/demand forecasts.

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

The chemistry, processing, and economics of polyester production is presented. Economic comparison of PAN versus DCPD based resins is examined. The market structure and commercial situation is presented.

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.

Chemistry and process for making cyclic olefin copolymers is presented. The economics of their manufacture is compared to functionally equivalent polymers such as polycarbonate and polymethyl methacrylate.

Natural gas liquids extraction technologies are assessed. Economics of NGL extraction are presented.

Process and economics of propane and isobutane dehydrogenation processes. Potential new applications are assessed.

Comparative evaluation of ethyl benzene and styrene production: ethyl benzene routes include: Mobil/Badger vapor phase alkylation, dilute ethylene feedstock, Lummus/UOP liquid phase alkylation and aluminum chloride liquid phase process. Regional supply/demand forecasts are given.

Economic evaluation of maleic anhydride production: benzene based process and butane based route. Emerging BOC and Sisas/Conser technology also examined. Regional supply/demand forecasts.

Comparative economic evaluation of caprolactam production: Conventional processes including: DSM, Allied Signal phenol, Capropol process, SNIA process, and Toray process. Emerging Enichem hydrogen peroxide process is also presented. Regional supply/demand forecasts are given.