Published November 2022
Polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) is a waxy, white solid that melts to a clear, colorless, viscous liquid near room temperature. PTMEG is produced by the catalyzed polymerization of tetrahydrofuran (THF). Spandex production accounts for the bulk of global PTMEG consumption. Other end uses include polyurethane elastomers (thermoplastic polyurethanes, cast urethane elastomers, and urethane adhesives, sealants, and surface coatings) and copolyester-ether elastomers.
In Northeast Asia (mainland China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan), Southeast Asia, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, and Latin America, spandex production drove the PTMEG consumption in 2022. In North America and Western Europe, nonfiber polyurethane applications were the major end uses for PTMEG. Worldwide PTMEG consumption is forecast to grow at an average of about 5–6% over the next five years.
The following pie chart shows world consumption of PTMEG:
The majority of new PTMEG plants and capacity expansions have taken place in mainland China to supply the rapidly growing market for spandex. Mainland Chinese PTMEG production capacity will continue to expand through 2027 to support the spandex production developments.
For more detailed information, see the table of contents, shown below.
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