Polyacrylic Acid Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Application (Water & Wastewater Treatment, Detergents & Cleaners, Paints, Coatings, & Inks), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Report Overview

The global polyacrylic acid market size was valued at USD 2.37 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% from 2024 to 2030 owing to the increasing use of polyacrylic acid in water treatment processes. As global awareness about water conservation and the need for clean water supplies is on the rise, polyacrylic acid’s role as a scale inhibitor, dispersant, and chelating agent has become increasingly crucial. Its ability to prevent mineral scaling in pipes and equipment, enhance particle separation, and bind with heavy metals makes it indispensable in both municipal and industrial water treatment plants.

U.S. polyacrylic acid market volume by application, 2014 - 2025 (Kilo Tons)

In addition, with stricter environmental regulations being implemented worldwide, industries have considerably sought eco-friendly alternatives to traditional chemicals. Polyacrylic acid, known for its biodegradability and low toxicity, has been increasingly favored in applications where environmental impact is a concern. This shift towards sustainable practices is particularly evident in the water treatment sector, where polyacrylic acid’s properties align well with the goals of reducing environmental harm.

The personal care industry has been a major market driver. Polyacrylic acid’s thickening, stabilizing, and water-retention properties make it a valuable ingredient in a wide range of personal care products, including lotions, creams, shampoos, and hair styling products. This trend was further supported by the expanding personal care industry which increasingly sought innovative ingredients to meet consumer expectations.

Furthermore, strong utilization of household cleaning products and laundry & dishwashing detergents along with the presence of key end-user industry players in the country such as Unilever, Reckitt Benckiser, and Procter & Gamble Co., are a couple of growth-supporting factors of the industry. Companies such as The Lubrizol Corporation are engaged in providing cross-linked polyacrylic acid products for the home care sector. These polymers are used for the processing of household products such as surface and floor cleaners.

Application Insights

The water and waste treatment segment secured the dominant market share of 52.1% in 2023 credited to the increasing global emphasis on sustainable water management with effective solutions. Polyacrylic acid with its excellent dispersing and anti-scaling properties, plays a crucial role in water treatment processes by preventing the formation of scale and enhancing the efficiency of water purification systems.  It is a key component in manufacturing inorganic and composite membranes that are used in aqua purification.

Global polyacrylic acid market volume by application, 2016 (%)

This performance chemical prevents and stabilizes the precipitation of calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, and other mineral scaling in various equipment systems including cooling water circulation, seawater desalination, and boiler units. Furthermore, the industrial sector’s growth, particularly in emerging economies such as India and China, has further propelled the demand for polyacrylic acid in water and waste treatment. The acid’s ability to act as a flocculant enhances the removal of contaminants from industrial effluents.

Detergents and cleaners are expected to boost over the forecast period owing to the heightened demand for efficient and eco-friendly cleaning products. Consumers have become progressively more environmentally conscious, which has led to a preference for biodegradable and non-toxic ingredients in household and industrial cleaners. The anti-redeposition properties of polyacrylic acid are widely used in detergents to enhance cleaning efficiency and prevent dirt from resettling on fabrics and surfaces.

Its ability to act as a thickening agent and stabilizer enhances the viscosity and stability of liquid detergents, which makes them more effective in removing stains and dirt. Furthermore, manufacturers have continuously developed new and improved formulations that incorporate this acid such as the development of concentrated and multi-functional cleaning products that offer superior performance.

Regional Insights

The Asia Pacific polyacrylic acid market secured the largest market share of 39.6% in 2023 owing to the rapid industrialization and urbanization in the region. Countries such as China, India, and Philippines have witnessed significant growth in their industrial sectors, leading to increased demand for polyacrylic acid in various applications, including water treatment, personal care, and construction. The expanding industrial base generates substantial wastewater, necessitating efficient treatment solutions. In addition, the booming construction industry in the region propelled the market forward. Polyacrylic acid was significantly used in various construction materials, including coatings, paints, and adhesives, to enhance their performance and durability. The region’s focus on developing smart cities and modern infrastructure projects is expected to drive significant demand over the forecast period.

Europe Polyacrylic Acid Market Trends

The polyacrylic acid market in Europe accounted for a significant share of the global revenue share in 2023 attributed to the stringent environmental regulations across the region. Countries such as the UK and Germany are known for their rigorous environmental standards, particularly concerning water and wastewater treatment. The European Union’s directives on wastewater treatment and the protection of water bodies significantly boost the demand for polyacrylic acid in this application.

North America Polyacrylic Acid Market Trends

The North America polyacrylic acid market is expected to witness a significant CAGR over the forecast period owing to the increasing demand for water treatment solutions. With the growing concerns about water scarcity and pollution, the market witnessed a heightened need for effective water treatment chemicals including polyacrylic acid. This petrochemical prevents scale formation and enhances the efficiency of water purification systems. Additionally, the trend towards eco-friendly and biodegradable ingredients in personal care products is further expected to stimulate market demand.

U.S. Polyacrylic Acid Market Trends

The U.S. polyacrylic acid market is expected to be driven by the country’s well-established medical infrastructure over the forecast period. Polyacrylic acid is used in the production of superabsorbent polymers, which are essential in medical products such as wound dressings and hygiene products. The rising demand for these products, driven by an aging population and increasing healthcare awareness, has propelled the market. Additionally, ongoing research and development efforts by key players in the industry aim to develop new and improved polyacrylic acid-based products, enhancing their applications and performance.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The market is concentrated by key players that are fully integrated across the value chain. Key market participants include BASF SE, Dow, The Lubrizol Corporation, and others. These companies have majorly focused on manufacturing raw materials and product derivatives to penetrate into the distribution channels and end use sectors.

• Lubrizol Corporation offers specialty chemicals for the transportation, industrial, and consumer markets. The company specializes in additives for engine oils, industrial lubricants, and fuel additives and produces ingredients for personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.

• Arkema is a multinational manufacturer of specialty materials, known for its expertise in adhesives, advanced materials, and coatings. The company has grown to become a key player in addressing global challenges such as new energies, resource depletion, and urbanization.

Recent Developments

• In May 2024, NIPPON SHOKUBAI INDONESIA (NSI), the Indonesian subsidiary of NIPPON SHOKUBAI CO., LTD. was certified with ISCC PLUS for Acrylates, Acrylic acid, and Superabsorbent polymers. The company has confirmed a global supply chain to produce these products in Japan, Indonesia, and Belgium, using biomass-enhanced raw materials.

• In April 2023, Arkema advanced its position with a comprehensive range of complementary “Inside The Cell” solutions with Incellion which includes advanced acrylic-based binders, dispersants, and rheology additives. These innovations enable battery manufacturers to optimize their formulations for electrode and separator solutions.

Polyacrylic Acid Market Report Scope

Global Polyacrylic Acid Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global polyacrylic acid market report based on application and region.

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, Volume in Kilotons, 2018 - 2030)

  • Water & Wastewater Treatment

  • Detergents & Cleaners

  • Paints, Coatings, & Inks

  • Superabsorbent Polymers

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, Volume in Kilotons, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Russia

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Indonesia

    • Vietnam

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)

    • Saudi Arabia

    • South Africa

    • UAE

    • Kuwait