Abstract
Global production and consumption of o-Xylene in 2007 was approximately 3.7 million metric tons. Global capacity utilization was 73.6% in 2007; this was an increase from 2006 due to a larger increase in consumption than capacity. Global o-Xylene consumption is estimated to have increased by 6.8% in 2007, and is expected to increase by 2.9% per year from 2007 to 2012, declining to 2.2% per year from 2012 to 2017. Average global utilization rates are expected to remain in the 70s range throughout the forecast period.
Phthalic anhydride accounted for almost 90% of global o-Xylene consumption in 2007. Other applications include solvents in bactericides, herbicides, and lube oil additives, as well as a raw material for the manufacture of polyethylene naphthalate (PEN).
