ISBN 978-0-470-53743-5


This new edition offers an updated and expanded version of the previous editions. It explains how the majority of industrial organic chemicals and polymers are derived from seven major building blocks produced from petroleum and natural gas. The book goes on to describe the chemistry of these building block chemicals and their derivatives, and how they are manufactured. It gives their uses and economic importance, and explains associated environmental concerns. Additionally, it covers how polymers are made and industrial catalysis, two topics essential to understanding the organic chemical industry.