PODCAST: US EG market dynamics continue to shift following EO disruptions

HOUSTON (ICIS)–Ethylene glycol (EG) markets reporter, Melissa Wheeler and CDI Analyst for the PET and polyester value chain, Antulio Borneo discuss current market dynamics and supply disruptions following the recent deflagration at Dow’s Plaquemine, Louisiana ethylene oxide (EO) unit.

Monoethylene glycol (MEG) is an intermediate in the production of polyester fibres and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle resins, and as an automotive antifreeze.

Applications for co-product diethylene glycol (DEG) include de-icing fluids, surface coatings, unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) and polyester polyols.

Co-product triethylene glycol  (TEG) is used in gas delivery pipes as a dehydrating agent to prevent the gas from freezing. It is also used in the oilfield sector to help extract natural gas.

Glycol producers in the US include Dow, Eastman Chemical, Formosa, Indorama Ventures, Lotte Chemical, LyondellBasell, MEGlobal, Sasol and Shell Chemical.

EO producers in the US include BASF, Dow, Eastman Chemical, Formosa, Indorama Ventures, Lotte Chemical, LyondellBasell, Sasol and Shell Chemical.