The synthetic paper industry has been commercial since the early 1980s and its growth pattern has seen significant changes. This is due to its participation in new markets and the entry of competitive plastic film packaging companies.

Specialty paper additives, as differentiated from commodity paper additives, are a significant market undergoing technical and market changes to meet increased demands due to lower-grade feedstock with higher recycled content and relatively flat production of many paper products.

This study provides an analysis of two chemical aspects of the paper industry, namely synthetic paper and specialty paper additives. The term ?synthetic paper? has not been universally defined because it basically is an opaque plastic film that is both printable and writeable. Although the market has gone beyond its original intentions, this report will include those products that producers, converters and distributors market as synthetic paper even though, in many instances, it replaces a nonfiber-based paper product such as plastic films. Actually, the distinction between synthetic paper and white, opaque printable films has not been resolved.

SCOPE OF STUDY

The report contains:

• Descriptions of the various polymer films used to produce synthetic paper, fillers and coatings
• Analysis of their use in manufacturing, printing processes, new technologies and applications
• Detailed discussion of the major players and their respective products
• An industry structure and patent review
• Pricing considerations
• North American market estimates and forecasts by major applications through 2010, and other critical aspects of the market.

METHODOLOGY

A comprehensive review of technical and market information, along with a careful analysis of product literature was undertaken. Interviews were completed with key producers and marketers of these products to clear up any unresolved issues.