CEH Report

Table of Contents

Abstract

Practically all cyclohexane is used to make cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone, which, in turn, are used mainly as precursors for adipic acid and caprolactam, respectively. Other uses for cyclohexane include various solvent applications and the production of cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone for nonprecursor use.

In the United States nylon demand has been on the decline as construction and automotive markets have slowed over the past few years. Western Europe and Japan are experiencing similar conditions and have begun decreasing operating rates. Central/Eastern Europe and Central/South America will experience only small demand growth for cyclohexane over the forecast period. There is no supply/demand for cyclohexane in Africa or Oceania.

The following pie chart shows world consumption of cyclohexane:

Much of the growth in consumption of cyclohexane will occur in China in caprolactam for nylon 6–based fiber and adipic acid used both as a feedstock for nylon 66 fiber and resins and as a raw material for polyester-based hot melt adhesives for shoe soles. The Middle East will likewise experience considerable new growth with the completion of the Chevron Phillips Chemical Company nylon 6 facility in Saudi Arabia, due on stream in 2012.