Polycarbonate Production from BPA and DPC

This study presents the economics of Polycarbonate (PC) production from bisphenol A (BPA) and diphenyl carbonate (DPC) in the United States, via a typical melt process. In this process, DPC is transesterified with BPA to form PC and phenol as by-product. The reaction is conducted in oligomerization and polymerization.

The report provides a comprehensive study of Polycarbonate production and related Polycarbonate production cost, covering three key aspects: a complete description of the Polycarbonate production process examined; an in-depth analysis of the related Polycarbonate plant capital cost (Capex); and an evaluation of the respective Polycarbonate plant operating costs (Opex).

The Polycarbonate production process description includes a block flow diagram (BFD), an overview of the industrial site installations, detailing both the process unit and the necessary infrastructure, process consumption figures and comprehensive process flow diagrams (PFD). The Polycarbonate plant capital cost analysis breaks down the Capex by plant cost (i.e., ISBL, OSBL and Contingency); owner's cost; working capital; and costs incurred during industrial plant commissioning and start-up. The Polycarbonate plant operating costs analysis covers operating expenses, including variable costs like raw materials and utilities, and fixed costs such as maintenance, labor, and depreciation.