In industrial processes, what are feedstocks?

Feedstocks refer to the raw materials or substances that are fed into a chemical process to produce a desired product. In industrial chemistry, these are the primary reactants used in various processes to synthesize chemicals, fuels, or other materials. Understanding this role is crucial because the quality and type of feedstock can significantly influence the efficiency, yield, and overall viability of the process.

In this context, while by-products, energy sources, and waste products are integral to the industrial process, they do not serve as the main inputs driving the reaction forward like feedstocks do. By-products are materials generated alongside the desired products, energy sources provide the necessary activation for reactions, and waste products are those that remain after the desired transformations are complete. Knowing the definition and role of feedstocks emphasizes their importance in establishing a successful industrial process.