Acrylic acid is a vital industrial chemical widely used in the production of acrylic esters, superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), and other derivatives. These products find applications in industries ranging from paints and coatings to adhesives, textiles, and personal care products. The global chemical sector is witnessing substantial growth, as reflected in the formaldehyde market, which stood at a volume of approximately 22,780 KT in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.40% between 2025 and 2034 to reach 30,510 KT by 2032. Similarly, the acrylic acid market is poised to expand, driven by demand across diverse end-use sectors and innovation in sustainable solutions.

Key Applications of Acrylic Acid

1. Superabsorbent Polymers (SAPs)

SAPs account for a significant share of acrylic acid consumption, primarily due to their widespread use in hygiene products such as diapers, sanitary napkins, and adult incontinence products.

• Example: In 2022, global diaper consumption surpassed 200 billion units, a key driver for SAP demand, especially in emerging economies with growing populations and rising disposable incomes.

2. Acrylic Esters

Acrylic esters are derivatives of acrylic acid used in paints, coatings, and adhesives. Their ability to enhance durability, water resistance, and adhesion makes them essential in construction and automotive applications.

• Case Study: The rapid urbanisation in Asia-Pacific has increased the demand for high-performance coatings, with acrylic esters being a preferred choice for superior weather resistance.

3. Other Applications

Acrylic acid also finds use in water treatment chemicals, textiles, and plastic additives, owing to its polymerisation properties and chemical versatility.

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Market Drivers

1. Demand for Hygiene Products

The rising global population, coupled with increasing awareness of hygiene, is driving the consumption of SAPs in personal care products.

• Insight: The Asia-Pacific region, led by China and India, is experiencing double-digit growth in hygiene product sales, boosting the acrylic acid market.

2. Growth in Construction and Automotive Industries

Acrylic esters are critical in paints, coatings, and adhesives used in construction and automotive applications, two sectors witnessing sustained growth globally.

• Example: The global construction industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 6% from 2024 to 2032, directly impacting acrylic ester demand.

3. Sustainability Trends

There is a growing emphasis on bio-based acrylic acid production, driven by environmental concerns and regulatory mandates.

• Case Study: BASF and Arkema have developed bio-based acrylic acid using renewable feedstocks, aligning with sustainability goals.

Challenges

1. Volatile Raw Material Prices
   The production of acrylic acid depends on feedstocks such as propylene, which are subject to price fluctuations due to crude oil market dynamics.

2. Environmental Concerns
   The conventional production process of acrylic acid generates waste and emissions, raising environmental concerns. Regulatory pressures are compelling manufacturers to adopt greener production technologies.

3. Competition from Substitutes
   Substitutes such as ethylene-based SAPs and other polymers pose a competitive challenge to acrylic acid in specific applications.

Emerging Trends

1. Shift Towards Bio-Based Acrylic Acid

Bio-based acrylic acid is gaining traction as companies invest in renewable feedstocks and cleaner production technologies.

• Example: Dow Inc. is collaborating with biotechnology firms to scale up bio-acrylic acid production, aiming to reduce carbon footprints.

2. Expansion of End-Use Industries

The growing demand for adhesives in packaging, flexible coatings in automotive, and durable textiles is driving innovation in acrylic acid formulations.

3. Technological Advancements

Process innovations, such as catalytic oxidation and green chemistry approaches, are enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of acrylic acid production.

• Case Study: Nippon Shokubai has developed a next-generation catalyst to improve yield and reduce emissions in acrylic acid manufacturing.

Regional Insights

1. Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the acrylic acid market due to its large manufacturing base, growing urbanisation, and expanding middle-class population.

• Example: China accounts for a significant share of global acrylic acid production and consumption, driven by its robust chemical and manufacturing sectors.

2. North America

The North American market is focused on sustainability and innovation, with significant investments in bio-based acrylic acid production.

3. Europe

Europe is adopting stringent environmental regulations, prompting manufacturers to transition to greener production methods and renewable feedstocks.

Actionable Insights for Stakeholders

• For Manufacturers: Prioritise investments in bio-based acrylic acid technologies to align with sustainability goals and meet regulatory requirements.
• For Policymakers: Implement incentives for green production technologies to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices in the chemical industry.
• For End-users: Explore partnerships with suppliers offering high-performance and environmentally friendly acrylic acid derivatives to enhance product offerings.

Future Outlook

The acrylic acid market is set to experience sustained growth, supported by expanding applications in hygiene, construction, and automotive industries. The shift towards bio-based solutions and process innovations will play a crucial role in addressing environmental concerns and ensuring long-term market viability.

As manufacturers embrace sustainability and technology-driven advancements, the acrylic acid market will remain a vital component of the global chemical industry, driving innovation across multiple sectors.