Published January 2023
Normal paraffins (n-paraffins) are linear, aliphatic hydrocarbons of C9-C17 chain lengths that are separated from kerosene using molecular sieves, or prepared from gas-to-liquid (GTL) or coal-to-liquid (CTL) processes. n- Paraffins are used to manufacture linear alkylbenzene, most of which is used as a precursor for the production of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate, a well-established workhorse surfactant that continues to show growth in developing regions. Other major applications include the production of chlorinated paraffins, use as solvents and metalworking fluids, in detergent alcohols, and in an array of industrial uses.
Mainland China accounts for about a third of global production capacity. Expansion of CTL production capacity in mainland China has been significant since the last report was published, and further expansions are expected during the forecast period.
Global consumption of normal paraffins will continue to grow at an average annual rate of 1.7% per year during 2022–27. Higher-than-average growth rates will be observed in regions such as Africa, mainland China, and the Indian Subcontinent as a result of increased demand for linear alkylbenzene production.
The following chart shows world consumption of normal paraffins:
For more detailed information, see the table of contents, shown below.
IHS Markit’s Chemical Economics Handbook – Paraffins, Normal (C9-C17) is the comprehensive and trusted guide for anyone seeking information on this industry. This latest report details global and regional information, including
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