The main chemical intermediates and derivatives of phenol are bisphenol-A (BPA) used to make polycarbonate (PC) and epoxy resins, phenolic resins, caprolactam, alkylphenols, aniline and adipic acid. The largest market for phenol is BPA followed by phenolic resins.
The global phenol market has been growing at an average of 5%/year due to healthy growth for BPA driven by the demand for polycarbonate as well as epoxy resins. Future long-term growth is expected to be a slower 4%/year. A large increase in capacity may lead to a period of poor operating rates.
Cumene-based technology is the dominant process to produce phenol. Here, benzene and propylene are reacted to form cumene, which is oxidised to the hydroperoxide, followed by acid-catalysed cleavage to yield phenol and acetone.
Phenol occurs as colourless to yellow crystals, with a characteristic carbolic odour. Phenol and its vapour are corrosive to the eyes, the skin and the respiratory tract. Phenol should be stored separately from reactive or combustible materials and out of direct sunlight.
Phenol
Price Reports
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Phenol
Uses and Outlook
The main chemical intermediates and derivatives of phenol are bisphenol-A (BPA) used to make polycarbonate (PC) and epoxy resins, phenolic resins, caprolactam, alkylphenols, aniline and adipic acid.
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Phenol
Process Technologies
Phenol was first isolated from coal tar in the coking of coal, but the first commercial process was the sulphonation of benzene and subsequent fusion with caustic soda.
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