|
MIBK is used primarily in solvent applications (mainly for surface coatings). It is also used for rubber antiozonants and acetylenic surfactants. MIBC’s major application is in the manufacture of lube oil additives, followed by its use as the principal flotation frother in treating copper and other ores. Surface coatings make up a minor portion of MIBC consumption. World MIBC statistics are difficult to estimate, but overall, MIBC will experience positive growth in lube oil applications and as a flotation frother (especially in actively mined regions).
The following pie chart shows world consumption of MIBK:
Solvent applications consume the majority of MIBK in most regions and consumption is expected to stay relatively flat in the developed regions. There may be some reformulation in certain MIBK applications as a result of environmental regulations, but cost pressures may limit reformulation activity.
Some applications (especially antiozonants) are moving to Asia, particularly China. MIBK consumption for antiozonants is forecast to grow at an average annual rate of 4–5% in Asia and 0–1% in the United States and Western Europe. World MIBK consumption will grow slowly from 2007 to 2012.
|
