Book excerpt: Substantially revising and updating the information from the widely-used previous editions, this book offers a valuable overview of current chemical processes, products, and practices. No other source offers as much data on the chemistry, engineering, economics, and infrastructure of the industry. In addition to thoroughly revised material on chemical economics, safety, statistical control methods, and waste management, chapters on industrial cell culture and industrial fermentation expand the treatment of biochemical engineering. Sectors covered include: plastics, rubber, adhesives, textiles, pharmaceuticals, soap, coal, dyes, chlor-alkali, pigments, chemical explosives, petrochemicals, natural and industrial gas, synthetic nitrogen products, fats, sulfur, phosphorus, wood, and sweeteners. Comprehensive and easy to use, the tenth edition of Riegel's Handbook of Industrial Chemistry is an essential working tool for chemical and process engineers, chemists, plant and safety managers, and regulatory agency personnel.