INTRODUCTION
STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The objective of this study is to provide a detailed analysis of engineering resins along with polymer alloys/blends. Usage of these resins will be segmented into a wide variety of applications and analyses, and will include some intracompetition of these resins among themselves along with selected commodity thermoplastics and thermosets.
REASONS FOR DOING THE STUDY
Traditional engineering resins and polymer alloys/blends have been “around” for decades and, yet, there are few studies that analyze in detail all of the major materials involved in terms of plant capacities, markets by application, new technologies and products, and rationales for anticipated growth.
There have been a great many changes in terms of producers/suppliers, products, grades, applications, competitive materials, technologies, and the ever-increasing “offshore” scenario. Some of these changes are the result of a great many corporate changes, which have become the “norm” in many industries.
As a result, there is clearly a need for a detailed reappraisal of the market dynamics of the engineering resin and polymer alloy/blend market.
SCOPE OF REPORT
In this report, engineering resins include traditional varieties such as nylons, polycarbonates, polyacetals, (reinforced) polyethylene terephthalate or PET, and poly(butylene terephthalate) or PBT, along with alloys/blends, such as polycarbonate-ABS alloy/blend (PC/ABS), PPO-HIPS alloy/blend (PPO/HIPS), PPO-nylon alloy/blend (PPO/nylon), and polycarbonate-PBT alloy/blend (PC/PBT). Higher-performance engineering resins include polysulfones, poly(phenylene-sulfide), polyimides, polyketones, and liquid crystal polymers.
The key applications covered include automotive segmented by under-the-hood, external and interior products; electrical/electronic markets; medical devices/products; building/construction materials; appliances; electronic enclosures; plastic rigid food packaging; and several key smaller markets such as optical lenses, aviation products, etc.
METHODOLOGY
A comprehensive review was undertaken of literature relating to engineering resins, their applications and technology, and significant new development. Included in the review were supplier trade literature, texts, and monographs.
Following collection and analysis of this information, interviews were conducted with producers, suppliers, and molders of engineering resins along with representatives of the trade press.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Research analyst Mel Schlechter has over 40 years in the chemical industry, and specializes in plastics market research. He has been with BCC Research for over 10 years and holds a B.S. in chemistry, M.S. in organic chemistry, and a M.B.A. in marketing.
