meta-Xylene price index

meta-Xylene price index

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

The outlook for meta-Xylene prices, on the second tab, is generated from different inputs including:

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

Further information on the meta-Xylene price index

What is meta-xylene

M-xylene, also known as 1,3-dimethylbenzene or meta-xylene, is a colorless, aromatic hydrocarbon liquid with a sweet, pleasant aroma. It is a member of the xylene family, which includes the isomers o-xylene and p-xylene. M-xylene is used as a feedstock in the production of phthalic anhydride, which is used to make plastics and resins. It is also used as a solvent and as a component in the production of a variety of products, including plastics, resins, and fibers. M-xylene can be harmful if inhaled or ingested and may cause skin irritation. It is important to use caution when handling m-xylene and to follow proper safety guidelines.

How is meta-xylene produced

There are several methods for producing m-xylene, including:

By-product of petroleum refining

M-xylene can be produced as a by-product of the refining of petroleum. During the refining process, various hydrocarbons are separated and processed to produce different products. M-xylene can be obtained as a side product of this process.

Dealkylation of toluene

M-xylene can be produced by the dealkylation of toluene, which is another aromatic hydrocarbon. This process involves the removal of an alkyl group from toluene to produce m-xylene.

Oxidation of p-xylene

M-xylene can also be produced by the oxidation of p-xylene, which is another aromatic hydrocarbon. This process involves the addition of oxygen to p-xylene to form m-xylene and water.

Catalytic dehydrogenation of xylene

M-xylene can also be produced by the catalytic dehydrogenation of xylene, which is a mixture of the three isomers of xylene (o-, m-, and p-xylene). This process involves the removal of hydrogen from xylene to produce m-xylene and other products.

What drives the cost of meta-xylene

The cost of meta-xylene can be influenced by a variety of factors, including:

Feedstock prices

Meta-xylene is primarily produced from mixed xylene, which is in turn derived from petroleum or natural gas. Fluctuations in the prices of these feedstocks can impact the cost of meta-xylene.

Demand

The demand for meta-xylene and its derivatives, such as isophthalic acid and purified terephthalic acid, can impact its cost. Increased demand for these products can drive up the price of meta-xylene.

Production capacity and utilization

The supply of meta-xylene can also impact its cost. Changes in production capacity or utilization rates of meta-xylene production facilities can affect its price.

Transportation costs

Meta-xylene is a chemical that is typically transported in bulk by ship or tanker truck. Transportation costs can vary depending on factors such as distance, route, and mode of transportation.

Government regulations and taxes

Government regulations and taxes can also impact the cost of meta-xylene. For example, environmental regulations and taxes on greenhouse gas emissions may increase the cost of production and transportation, which can be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices.

What is meta-xylene used for

M-xylene, or meta-xylene, is a versatile chemical that is used in a variety of applications, including:

Chemical feedstock

M-xylene is used as a feedstock in the production of phthalic anhydride, which is used to make plastics and resins.

Plastic production

M-xylene is used as a starting material in the production of a variety of plastics, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polycarbonate.

Resin production

M-xylene is used as a starting material in the production of resins, which are used in a variety of applications, including coatings, adhesives, and insulation.

Fiber production

M-xylene is used as a starting material in the production of fibers, including polyester fibers, which are used in clothing and other textiles.

Solvent

M-xylene is also used as a solvent for various chemicals, including paints, resins, and dyes.

Which countries are the biggest produces of meta xylene

The production of meta-xylene is closely tied to the production of mixed xylene, which is a feedstock for meta-xylene production. The largest producers of mixed xylene and meta-xylene vary from year to year, but as of 2021, the leading producers of mixed xylene were China, the United States, South Korea, and Japan. Other significant producers include India, Singapore, and Taiwan. The production and export of mixed xylene and meta-xylene can be influenced by a variety of factors, including global demand for the chemicals, the availability of low-cost feedstocks, and government policies and regulations.

How big is the m-xylene market

The m-xylene market is a significant global industry, with demand driven by a variety of end-use applications. According to a report from MarketsandMarkets, the global m-xylene market was valued at $18.3 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $26.3 billion by 2025, at a compound annual growth rate of 7.3% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing demand for m-xylene in the production of chemicals such as phthalic anhydride and in the production of plastics, resins, and fibers. The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market for m-xylene, followed by North America and Europe. The market is expected to witness significant growth in the Asia-Pacific region, driven by the increasing demand for m-xylene in the production of plastic resins and fibers.

According to https://oec.world/ : M-xylene are the world’s 4080th most traded product.

In 2020, the top exporters of M-xylene were United States ($40.9M), Japan ($26.5M), South Korea ($7.72M), Netherlands ($6.33M), and Portugal ($851k).

In 2020, the top importers of M-xylene were South Korea ($32.1M), China ($18.5M), Spain ($14.6M), Belgium ($6.14M), and Germany ($4.43M).

Further market

• Wikipedia for general, history, production and usage information
• PubChem for chemistry and property  information