ICIS - chemical podcasts

Stephanie Wix, Editor of the Europe ABS report, and Nazif Nazmul, Editor of the Europe ACN report, dive into the intricate dynamics of the European acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and acrylonitrile markets. They discuss how geopolitical tensions and maritime security issues are impacting supply and demand, while highlighting a cautious optimism for future recovery. The conversation also touches on the role of imports and logistics, as well as the interconnected nature of these markets amid ongoing economic challenges.

Ethane is gaining favor as the feedstock for steam crackers in China, as its competitive prices make ethane-cracking the most profitable route for ethylene production compared to other options. 

Suratman Nurluqman, deputy news editor at ICIS Asia, and hydrogen analyst Patricia Tao delve into China's booming hydrogen sector. They unveil how hydrogen production has surged, with 80% still coming from coal and natural gas. Refineries are pivotal as stricter automotive fuel standards drive demand. A transformative shift towards cleaner blue and renewable hydrogen sources is on the horizon, reshaping China’s energy landscape. The discussion highlights the crucial role of refining in this exciting energy transition.

Cameron Birch, a glycol ethers report editor, joins Nicole Simpson, the oxo-alcohols editor, and Mat Jolin-Beech, who specializes in acrylate esters. They discuss the European oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets, noting subdued summer activity and healthy supply levels. The trio examines the sluggish demand from key sectors and how interest rates impact market dynamics. They also dive into rising shipping costs and specific supply challenges, shedding light on broader industry trends affecting the chemical landscape.

LONDON (ICIS)--European melamine editor Melissa Hurley, looks at the global situation for melamine with Joy Foo and Connor Phillips and what might happen in the second half of the year.  Anti-dumping investigation from US Cornerstone Chemical may levy impact on industry Q3/Q4 Chinese supply to lengthen, eyes on new capacities; signs of freight rates to SE Asia, India easing  European supply curtailed; impact offset by ongoing slow demand conditions Additional reporting from Market Reporter Joy Foo and Connor Phillips.

The podcast dives into the alarming second quarter financial results in the chemical sector, highlighting persistent downturns in sales and profitability. Experts discuss Europe's struggle with overcapacity and high production costs linked to China. BASF faces significant income drops and warns of upcoming challenges. There's a strong emphasis on the need for radical business model transformations, shifting from traditional approaches to service-oriented strategies. The talk wraps up with insights on a cautious future amidst a changing global landscape.

The podcast dives into Japan's petrochemical industry, highlighting its shift from basic chemicals to specialty products and innovative low carbon technologies. Aging infrastructure and high feedstock costs are pressing challenges, prompting the closure of older crackers. Japan's push for sustainable materials like bio-naphtha and the licensing of recycling technologies reflect its responsiveness to market demands. European leaders are encouraged to learn from Japan's proactive strategies, especially in fostering competitiveness and navigating global challenges.

Typhoon Gaemi will test the resilience of the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply chain, causing temporary shipment delays and port closures.

CHENGDU (ICIS) -- Asia’s epichlorohydrin (ECH) market has been relatively flat in recent months, a situation that has been prolonged by the persistent supply overhang in Asia and the lack of demand outlets.  Weak performance in derivative epoxy resins market to endure Reduced run rates likely to remain a key response from ECH makers Upcoming capacities to add pressure on a structurally long supply picture In this podcast, markets reporter Michelle Liew discusses trends in the Asia ECH market, as well as the near-term outlook.

SINGAPORE (ICIS) -- China's installed capacity of gas power generation is projected to surpass 150 GW by 2025, representing roughly 6% of the country's total installed power generation capacity. This presents substantial investment prospects within China and aligns with the nation's ambition to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Hydrogen, often regarded as a potential fuel for blending with natural gas, offers a promising avenue for reducing emissions from power generation. In this podcast, ICIS senior LNG analyst Xu Fei will delve into the mechanics of hydrogen-fueled gas turbines and their potential to significantly cut carbon emissions.