Petrochemicals from Oil, Gas, Coal and Biomass: Energy Efficiency, Economics and Innovation

Most petrochemicals are currently made from crude oil. The global petrochemical industry is faced with the dual challenge of climate change and the security of energy supply. This book explores the technical and economic potential of innovative technologies. In total, 24 technological routes were studied and three aspects were analyzed: environment, production costs and innovation. The book concludes that while certain innovative technologies could potentially improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon-dioxide emissions and/or utilize alternative primary energy sources (e.g. coal and biomass), there are complex drivers and barriers related to energy efficiency improvement and technological innovations. Appropriate policies are needed to ensure that alternative energy sources will be utilized in environmentally friendly and sustainable ways. The book may be useful for policymakers, engineers, executives or anyone else who is concerned with energy use and greenhouse gas emissions of the petrochemical industry.