U.S. Plastics Industry: Role and Opportunities for Natural Gas Technologies

摘要

The report classifies the technical opportunities and challenges facing natural gas technology in the plastics manufacturing market. Market opportunities were identified for gas-fired cogeneration (200-300 MW), vapor compression heat pumps, and, possibly, gas prime movers in plastic resin manufacturing processes. No unique Research and Development opportunities were identified for this heavy-steam-using segment of the industry. Opportunities exist for conventional central thermal fluid systems (CTFS) in many plastic molding and forming operations. The potential is estimated at 2-4 Bcf/yr for this market. Research to improve the potential for CTFS include use of fiber matrix burners to eliminate dual-fuel competition and reduce NOx emissions and investigation of heat pipes to retrofit closed-bore platens now used with electric resistance heaters. Existing gas-fired resin drying equipment may be threatened by new microwave drying systems that offer quick and continuous operation. Refrigerant and desiccant wheel dryers and other gas-based options should be considered to maintain this large gas market.