About Chemicals Industry of the Future
Chemicals Reports
Snapshot of the U.S. Chemical Industry
- Ranks 2nd of all manufacturing industries in total energy use (6.5 Q Btu)
- World's largest exporter of chemicals (26% of world production) and largest industrial contributor to positive trade balance ($81B net export 2002)
- Highest value added industry of all major commodities, as supplier to biomedicine and health, electronic, and food industries.
The Industrial Technologies Program (ITP) Chemicals Subprogram pursues a multi-faceted approach to improve the energy efficiency and environmental performance of the U.S. chemicals industry. It conducts a coordinated R&D program for advanced technologies and fosters the use of energy-efficient practices in chemical facilities. Through the Chemicals Industry of the Future (IOF) strategy, the subprogram works with industry to:
- Focus R&D on the best opportunities for energy savings
- Foster the formation of collaborative R&D partnerships and share costs of selected projects
- Maintain a balanced R&D portfolio and involve industry in technical portfolio reviews
- Demonstrate, validate, and showcase R&D results
- Provide tools, training, and other resources to boost energy efficiency and productivity today
R&D projects target potentially high-payoff technologies that are too risky or costly for individual companies. Key focus areas of the Chemical R&D portfolio reflect national goals for energy and the environment, top opportunities for energy savings, and chemical industry priorities for economically viable technology.
ITP and the DOE Golden Field Office manage the activities and projects undertaken by ITP Chemicals. Key functions include:
- Planning targeted R&D solicitations that focus on the largest energy efficiency opportunities for the chemicals industry
- Performing analytic studies
- Conducting peer reviews for R&D projects
- Disseminating and showcasing research results
- Coordinating with other government offices
- Serving as good stewards of public resources