SUBSCRIBER NOTE: Platts proposes to specify benzene content in European MX methodology

Following market feedback, S&P Global Platts has decided to extend the consultation period on its proposal to specify benzene content to a maximum limit of 100 ppm in its mixed xylenes assessment methodology in Europe. The proposal follows industry comments that the bulk of MX produced and traded within Europe conforms to a maximum limit of 100 ppm benzene content. Platts continues to seek feedback on its proposal and invites all comments by September 7, 2018. Platts existing MX specifications reflect product conforming to the latest edition of ASTM D-843, with one or more isomers removed; the non-aromatics content set at the maximum of 2% and the maximum ethylbenzene content at 20%. There are no limits on metaxylene, paraxylene and orthoxylene content. Platts welcomes feedback on all specifications. Platts MX assessments are published on Petrochemical Alert (PCA) pages: 328, 335, 233, 432, 370, 241, 446 and 540. They are also published in Europe & Americas Petrochemicalscan, Solventswire and in the Platts price database under the following symbols: Mixed Xylenes CIF ARA MXEAA00 Mixed Xylenes CIF ARA Mo01 MXEAB00 Mixed Xylenes CIF ARA Mo02 MXEAC00 Mixed Xylenes FOB ARA PHABD00 Mixed Xylenes CIF ARA Mo01 spread to EBOB FOB ARA swap MXPRA00 Mixed Xylenes CIF ARA Mo02 spread to EBOB FOB ARA swap MXPRB00 Please direct any questions or comments to pl_petchems_ln@spglobal.com with a copy to pricegroup@spglobal.com.

For written comments, please provide a clear indication if comments are not intended for publication by Platts for public viewing. Platts will consider all comments received and will make comments not marked as confidential available upon request.