Acrylonitrile (ACN) is used mainly as a monomer or comonomer in the production of synthetic fibres, plastics and elastomers. The largest outlet is in the manufacture of acrylic fibres while the main growth sector for ACN is the acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)/styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN) market.
Global demand for acrylonitrile is only expected to grow by 1-2%/year, with the strongest demand in Asia. Overcapacity had been a problem for ACN markets but they are now much better balanced due to plant closures outpacing capacity additions.
The dominant route for the manufacture of acrylonitrile is the one-step propylene ammoxidation process, replacing the original acetylene-based technology. New technology based on propane ammoxidation is being developed by a number of ACN producers with claims of a 30% production cost advantage compared to the propylene route.
Acrylonitrile is a clear, colourless or pale yellow flammable liquid with a sweet, pungent, irritating odour. It is a severe fire and explosion hazard that polymerises readily on exposure to light.
Acrylonitrile
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Acrylonitrile
Uses and Outlook
Acrylonitrile (ACN) is used mainly as a monomer or comonomer in the production of synthetic fibres, plastics and elastomers. The largest outlet is in the manufacture of acrylic fibres, which are soft and light with warm tactile feeling similar to wool fibres. Hence they are used in clothing such as sweaters and jumpers, socks and sports wear. Acrylic fibres also have uses in home furnishings and bedding such as carpets, upholstery, cushions and blankets.
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Acrylonitrile
Process Technologies
The dominant route for the manufacture of ACN is the one-step propylene ammoxidation process, replacing the original acetylene-based technology. Propylene, ammonia and air are reacted in a fluidised bed reactor to produce ACN with acetonitrile and hydrogen cyanide as by-products. The original catalyst consisted of bismuth phosphomolybdate on silica, but recent catalyst developments have improved yields and can boost capacity of existing plants by 20%. The domination of licensed technology by BP Chemicals (Sohio) ended in 1995 when Solutia (Monsanto) licensed its technology to Tae Kwong in South Korea.
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