James G. Speight 
Handbook of Petrochemical Processes 

The petrochemical industry is a scientific and engineering field that encompasses the production of a wide range of chemicals and polymers. The purpose of this book is not only to provide a follow-on to form the later chapters of the highly successful Chemistry and Technology of Petroleum 5th Edition but also provides a simplified approach to a very diverse chemical subject dealing with the chemistry and technology of various petroleum and petrochemical process. Following from the introductory chapters, this book provides the readers with a valuable source of information containing insights into petrochemical reactions and products, process technology, and polymer synthesis.

• Provides readers with a valuable source of information containing insights into petrochemical reactions and products, process technology, and polymer synthesis




• Introduces the reader to the various petrochemical intermediates are generally produced by chemical conversion of primary petrochemicals to form more complicated derivative products


• The reactions and processes involved in transforming petroleum-based hydrocarbons into the chemicals that form the basis of the multi-billion dollar petrochemical industry are reviewed and described




• The book includes information on new process developments for the production of raw materials and intermediates for petrochemicals




• Includes a description of the origin of the raw materials for the petrochemicals industry – including an overview of the coal chemicals industry