ABSTRACT
Following the general analysis of materials’ energy costs in Chapter 3, polymers – particularly those used in packaging – are analysed in this chapter from British, American and Dutch data. Four stages are distinguished in the manufacture and processing of polymers: acquisition of feedstocks, manufacture of the monomer, polymerisation, and fabrication of the final articles. Polyethylene, polypropylen, PVC and polystyrene are examined in detail and compared in energy terms with paper and paperboard. Comparisons are also drawn with the energy requirement of metals production.
