Forecast Period | 2024-2028 |
Market Size (2022) | USD 9.21 billion |
CAGR (2023-2028) | 6.35% |
Fastest Growing Segment | Polyacrylamide |
Largest Market | Asia Pacific |
Market Overview
Global Super Absorbent Polymer Market has valued at USD 9.21 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 6.35% through 2028. Super absorbent polymers (SAPs) are a fascinating type of polymer known for their hydrophilic networks that can absorb a significant amount of water. They are created using chemically modified starch, cellulose, and other polymers like polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). These polymers possess a remarkable affinity for liquid and exhibit hydrophilic properties.
Key Market Drivers
Growing Demand of Super Absorbent Polymer from Construction Industry
In the construction industry, super absorbent polymers (SAPs) are widely employed for their remarkable water-retaining properties. These polymers play a vital role in the production of concrete, where they contribute to enhancing the durability and longevity of structures by effectively controlling the internal curing process. By retaining water and gradually releasing it over time, SAPs significantly contribute to the development of stronger and more resilient concrete structures.
Furthermore, the applications of SAPs extend beyond concrete production. They are also extensively used in geotechnical applications, such as soil conditioning and erosion control. Their exceptional absorption capacity allows them to retain moisture in the soil, promoting healthy plant growth and preventing soil erosion. This not only helps in creating a sustainable environment but also contributes to the overall stability of various construction projects.
As the construction industry continues to strive for innovative materials that enhance efficiency and sustainability, the demand for super absorbent polymers is predicted to witness further growth. Ongoing research and development efforts are expected to uncover new and exciting applications for SAPs in construction, which will further fuel the expansion of the market.
In conclusion, the growing demand for super absorbent polymers from the construction industry is playing a crucial role in driving the global super absorbent polymer market. As these remarkable materials continue to demonstrate their immense value across various applications, the future looks exceptionally promising for the SAP market.
Growing Demand of Super Absorbent Polymer from Medical Industry
Super absorbent polymers (SAPs) are remarkable materials known for their exceptional ability to absorb and retain large volumes of liquid in relation to their own mass. This unique property has led to their wide range of applications across various sectors, including personal care, agriculture, construction, and the ever-growing medical industry.
Within the medical field, SAPs have become indispensable due to their high absorbency and biocompatibility. One of their primary applications is in wound dressings, where their excellent fluid absorption properties help create a clean and moist environment, promoting faster healing. Moreover, SAPs are extensively used in the production of disposable hygiene products such as adult incontinence items and sanitary napkins, thanks to their rapid fluid absorption and retention capabilities, making them ideal for these specific applications.
More recently, researchers have started exploring the potential of SAPs in drug delivery systems. These polymers show promise in effectively and safely delivering drugs, which could potentially revolutionize treatment strategies for various medical conditions. The versatility and adaptability of SAPs make them an exciting area of research and development in the medical field.
In conclusion, the increasing demand for super absorbent polymers from the medical industry is playing a pivotal role in driving the global super absorbent polymer market. As SAPs continue to demonstrate their value and effectiveness in various medical applications, the future appears bright for the SAP market, with ongoing advancements and innovations on the horizon.
Key Market Challenges
Volatility in Availability of Raw Materials
Super absorbent polymers (SAPs) are fascinating materials known for their remarkable ability to absorb and retain significant amounts of liquid compared to their own mass. This unique characteristic makes them incredibly versatile and widely used across various industries. For instance, in personal care products, SAPs are employed to enhance the absorbency and leakage prevention of diapers and adult incontinence products. In the medical field, they play a crucial role in wound dressings and surgical pads, where they help to keep the wounded area dry and promote faster healing. Even in the construction industry, SAPs are utilized to improve the properties of concrete, such as its durability and resistance to cracking.
However, one of the main challenges faced by the SAP market is the volatility in the prices and availability of raw materials, particularly acrylic acid, which is the primary component used in the production of SAPs. The prices of acrylic acid tend to fluctuate due to various factors, including changes in the petroleum industry, as it is derived from petrochemicals. These price fluctuations can pose significant challenges to manufacturers, as they directly impact the cost of producing SAPs. Moreover, disruptions in the availability of raw materials, logistical challenges, and reduced production can further exacerbate this issue, potentially leading to increased costs for manufacturers. Ultimately, these increased costs may be passed on to consumers, which could potentially impact the overall growth and stability of the SAP market.
Key Market Trends
Increase in Efforts to Improve Absorption Speed
The absorption and release properties of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are influenced by various factors, including solution concentration, temperature, and ionic strength. Recent trends indicate a growing emphasis on research and development aimed at enhancing these properties, particularly the absorption speed.
By improving the absorption speed, SAPs can offer increased effectiveness in a wide range of applications. For example, in personal hygiene products, faster absorption can significantly enhance user comfort and protection. In the medical field, quicker absorption has the potential to facilitate wound healing processes by creating a clean and moist environment for optimal recovery.
The drive to enhance absorption speed is expected to have a positive impact on the SAP market. Not only does it improve the performance of existing products, but it also opens up new possibilities for innovative applications. This evolution in product quality and versatility is likely to stimulate the demand for SAPs, leading to further market growth.
In conclusion, the pursuit of improving the absorption speed of superabsorbent polymers is emerging as a significant trend in the global SAP market. As these efforts continue to progress and yield positive results, they are poised to drive the expansion of the market in the years to come.
Segmental Insights
Raw Material Type Insights
Based on the category of raw material type, the sodium polyacrylate segment emerged as the dominant player in the global market for super absorbent polymer in 2022. The significant growth of polyacrylate/polyacrylamide copolymer super absorbent polymers is accredited to their remarkable ability to absorb several hundred times their own mass in water and other liquid mixtures. This unique characteristic makes them highly effective in various applications, such as agriculture, hygiene products, and wastewater treatment. As a result, these super absorbent polymers are projected to experience a substantial Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) during the forecast time-frame, reflecting the increasing demand and wide range of potential uses for this innovative material.
Application Insights
The female hygiene segment is projected to experience rapid growth during the forecast period. The growing adoption of SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer) in the manufacturing of baby diapers, female hygiene products, as well as adult hygiene products, has been a significant contributing factor to its increased usage across leading countries worldwide. Moreover, the industrial grade segment is expected to expand at a noteworthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the rising demand for SAP from agricultural industries across the globe, where it finds applications in various agricultural products and practices.
Regional Insights
Asia Pacific emerged as the dominant player in the Global Super Absorbent Polymer Market in 2022, holding the largest market share in terms of value. In terms of geography, the super absorbent polymers market is predominantly dominated by the Asia Pacific region. This is primarily due to the escalating demand from the personal care and agricultural industries for various end-use applications, particularly in the countries of India, China, and Japan. Within the Asia Pacific region, the market for super absorbent polymers in China is projected to hold a prominent position in terms of revenue. This can be attributed to several factors including rapid industrialization, a substantial agriculture sector, continuous technological advancements, a growing birth rate, and an overall improvement in living standards. These factors collectively contribute to the significant growth of the target market in the APAC region.
Recent Developments
- In
November 2020, Nippon Shokubai, LiveDo Corporation (Japan), and Total Care
System (Japan) joined forces to collaborate on various cutting-edge
technologies aimed at promoting the recycling of disposable diapers, which have
been gaining popularity in recent years. These three businesses have made
significant strides in developing innovative solutions for recycling
superabsorbent polymers found in discarded diapers, contributing to a more
sustainable and eco-friendly future.
- In
March 2021, BASF, a global leader in chemical innovation, demonstrated its
commitment to the hygiene industry by investing a substantial amount of USD
30.1 million in establishing a state-of-the-art hygiene excellence center. This
new facility will serve as a hub for research and development, allowing BASF's
super absorbent polymer business to expand its capabilities and further drive
innovation in the field.
- Going
back to August 2018, BASF PETRONAS Chemicals, a successful joint venture
between BASF SE and Petroleum Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) in Malaysia, unveiled
its ambitious plans to enhance its manufacturing capacity for acrylic acid and
butyl acrylate. This strategic move reflects the company's dedication to
meeting the growing demand for these essential chemicals, while also ensuring
the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
- These
examples highlight the continuous efforts of industry leaders like Nippon
Shokubai, LiveDo Corporation, Total Care System, and BASF to push the
boundaries of technological advancements and foster a more environmentally
conscious approach within the diaper and chemical manufacturing sectors.
Key Market Players
- BASF
SE
- EVONIK INDUSTRIES AG
- KAO CORPORATION
- LG CHEM LTD.
- SANYO CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES, LTD.
- SUMITOMO SEIKA CHEMICALS CO., LTD.
- NIPPON SHOKUBAI CO., LTD.
- XITAO POLYMER CO., LTD.
- Yixing Danson Technology Co.
- ZHEJIANG SATELLITE PETROCHEMICAL CO.,
LTD
By Raw Material Type
|
By
Application
|
By
Region
|
- Sodium
Polyacrylate
- Polyacrylamide
Co-Polymer
- Others
|
- Disposable Diapers
- Adult Incontinence
- Female Hygiene
- Others
|
- North America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- South America
- Middle East & Africa
|