Industrial Chemistry and Water Treatment

Chemistry in Plastic, Glass and Leather Industries

The chemical and plastics industry is a leading force in economic growth that is helping U.S. cities bounce back from the recession, according to a new study commissioned by the U.S. Conference of Mayors.  

The report paints a rosy picture of economic growth and credits the manufacturing of plastics and chemicals with spurring a surge in jobs, exports and research in many cities across the country. Behind the industry’s role as a growing economic force are rock-bottom natural gas prices, largely due to technologies allowing extractors to tap into new reserves.

Natural gas fuels most U.S. chemical processes. Chemical companies are investing money into places as diverse as the Gulf of Mexico and Pittsburgh – wherever the gas is, according to the study conducted by IHS Global Insight, a Colorado-based industry analytics company that focuses on energy issues.

The businesses of chemicals, coatings and plastics are closely linked, and those sectors, in turn, are closely linked to the oil and gas industry.

Plastics comprise a branch of petrochemicals—that is, chemicals refined from petroleum and natural gas.

 Among the more visible end products are PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe for plumbing and other purposes, plastic bottles and other food containers, vinyl window frames, flooring and carpeting made from vinyl and other synthetics, as well as clothing of all types made from synthetic fabrics. This is a research-based industry that requires massive capital expenditures on the production end.

The Basics of Plastic Manufacturing, Plastic Recycling, Thermo Plastics and Thermosets, Plastic, rubber and polymers, Plastic to Fuel