What are the main downstream applications and growth prospects for refined naphthalene?

What are the main downstream applications and growth prospects for refined naphthalene?
Refined naphthalene serves as a key intermediate in the chemical industry, with its primary downstream outlets being phthalic anhydride production (via catalytic oxidation over vanadium pentoxide) and naphthalene-based superplasticizers for construction. The global industrial naphthalene market was valued at 7.16 billion yuan in 2019 and is projected to reach 9.17 billion yuan by 2026, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of about 3%. Major producers include Baowu Carbon Materials, Rain Industries, JFE Chemical, Nippon Steel, Koppers, and Himadri, alongside several Chinese players such as Baoshun Group and Shanxi Yangmei. Growth is underpinned by steady demand from construction chemicals and plasticizers, though the market remains sensitive to coal tar supply dynamics and environmental regulations on coking operations.