Polypropylene has been one of the fastest growing polymers in volume during recent years.
That will continue into the 1990s, says a study by DeWitt & Co. Inc., Houston.
Trade patterns will change significantly as new polypropylene plants go on line in various countries around the world. Between 1989 and 1995, 6.6 million tons/year of new capacity is forecast to go on stream. This represents a 53% increase from current capacity.
As a result of this new capacity, exports from North America and western Europe may decline by 57%.
In the base case outlined by DeWitt, world demand for polypropylene will grow at a 5.7%/year rate during 1988-95.
Assuming no older plants will shut down, the average plant operating rate will decline to 81% in 1992 and then begin to recover. By late 1995, additional capacity may be needed.
The study lists more than 4 million tons/year of capacity that is in the planning stage. Some is expected to go on line in the mid-1990s.
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