Cond ea Augusta plans a 100,000-ton LAB facility at Augusta in Sicily. The new plant will not result in a net increase in LAB capacity, but the company has not decided where it will rationalize its production. Despite significant market share losses to alcohol sulfates in the 1990s, LAS remains a strong contender among anionic surfactants and a workhorse in the marketplace on a cost basis. While some observers say that liquids may have peaked out, others project a 60 percent market share for liquids in five years as compared with about a 50-50 split with powders now. A capacity buildup offshore could threaten export markets, although high initial investment costs for new LAB facilities is a deterrent.
Demand increases well above that average have been recorded in some developing countries.
In a mature North American market, by contrast, below average growth is forecast and LAB exports are increasingly the key for US producers. Return to the top of page. Return to this weeks profile Return to archives menu For questions or comments about ChemExpo contact ChemExpo's Editor.