Isophthalic acid price index

Isophthalic acid price index

This post is a summary of Isophthalic acid developments. The price developments of Isophthalic acid are expressed in US$ prices converted FX rates applicable at the time when the price was valid. Isophthalic acid price index developments are calculated from multiple separate sources of data to ensure statistical accuracy.

The outlook for Isophthalic acid prices, on the second tab, is generated from different inputs including:

• Very recent price developments of immediate cost drivers of Isophthalic acid prices
• Recent price developments of underlying feedstocks which drive the price of Isophthalic acid
• Market futures for both cost drives and feedstocks of Isophthalic acid prices
• Adjustment of current supply/demand imbalances in the Isophthalic acid market
• Longer term trends in likely demand conditions

Further information on the Isophthalic acid price index

What is Isophthalic acid

Isophthalic acid is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C8H6O4. It is a white crystalline solid at room temperature and is insoluble in water. Isophthalic acid is an aromatic dicarboxylic acid, meaning it contains two carboxylic acid functional groups attached to a benzene ring.

Key properties of isophthalic acid include its ability to undergo esterification and amidation reactions, making it useful in the production of various polymers and resins. Isophthalic acid is primarily used in the manufacture of polyesters, especially in combination with terephthalic acid. These polyesters are commonly known as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and are widely used in the production of fibers for textiles, bottles for beverages and other liquids, and various packaging materials.

Isophthalic acid is also utilized in the synthesis of various other chemicals and materials, including pharmaceuticals, dyes, plasticizers, and specialty polymers.

Overall, isophthalic acid is an important industrial chemical with diverse applications in the production of polymers, resins, and other specialty chemicals.

How is Isophthalic acid produced

Isophthalic acid is typically produced through a multi-step chemical process involving oxidation of a precursor compound. The most common method involves the oxidation of meta-xylene (1,3-dimethylbenzene). Here’s a general outline of the production process:

Oxidation of Meta-Xylene

The primary precursor for isophthalic acid production is meta-xylene. Meta-xylene is oxidized to meta-toluic acid (3-methylbenzoic acid) using air or oxygen in the presence of a catalyst such as cobalt or manganese salts at elevated temperatures (typically around 150-200°C).

Conversion to Isophthalic Acid

Meta-toluic acid is then further oxidized to isophthalic acid through a series of chemical reactions. The oxidation of meta-toluic acid typically involves a combination of nitric acid (HNO3) or oxygen and a metal catalyst such as vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) or a mixed metal oxide catalyst.

Purification

The crude isophthalic acid product obtained from the oxidation reaction contains impurities and byproducts. It undergoes purification processes such as crystallization, filtration, and recrystallization to isolate pure isophthalic acid crystals.

Drying and Packaging

The purified isophthalic acid crystals are dried to remove residual moisture and then packaged for distribution and sale.

Overall, the production of isophthalic acid involves controlled oxidation reactions of meta-xylene followed by purification steps to obtain the final product. The process may vary slightly depending on the specific catalysts and conditions used by different manufacturers.

What is Isophthalic acid used for

Isophthalic acid is primarily used in the production of polyesters, especially in combination with terephthalic acid. These polyesters, commonly referred to as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), are widely used in various industries for their excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and versatility. Here are some key applications of isophthalic acid:

PET Resins for Packaging

Isophthalic acid is a key component in the production of PET resins used for manufacturing plastic bottles, containers, and packaging materials for beverages, food, personal care products, and household items. PET packaging is preferred for its lightweight, transparency, and recyclability.

Fibers and Textiles

Isophthalic acid is used in the production of polyester fibers for textiles and apparel. Polyester fibers made from PET resins are durable, wrinkle-resistant, and have good moisture-wicking properties, making them suitable for a wide range of clothing and textile applications.

Engineering Plastics

Isophthalic acid is also used in the production of engineering plastics, where its incorporation enhances the mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and thermal stability of the final products. These plastics find applications in automotive parts, electrical components, and industrial equipment.

Coatings and Paints

Isophthalic acid-based resins are used in the formulation of coatings and paints for corrosion protection, decorative finishes, and industrial applications. These coatings offer excellent adhesion, durability, and chemical resistance, making them suitable for use in marine, automotive, and infrastructure sectors.

Laminates and Composites

Isophthalic acid-based resins are used as matrix materials in the production of fiberglass-reinforced composites and laminates. These materials are lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for applications in construction, transportation, and marine industries.

Adhesives and Sealants

Isophthalic acid-based resins are used in the formulation of adhesives, sealants, and caulks due to their excellent bonding strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance. These products find applications in construction, automotive, and aerospace industries.

Overall, isophthalic acid plays a crucial role in the production of PET resins and other polyester-based materials, which have widespread applications in packaging, textiles, engineering, coatings, and various industrial sectors.

How big is the global Isophthalic acid market

The global isophthalic acid market size was estimated to be around USD 2.3 billion in 2020. However, market sizes can vary over time due to factors such as changes in demand, production capacity, economic conditions, and industry trends.

The isophthalic acid market is influenced by its wide range of applications across industries such as plastics, textiles, coatings, and automotive. Factors such as urbanization, industrialization, and increasing demand for durable and lightweight materials drive the growth of the isophthalic acid market.

According to https://oec.world/en: