by The global super absorbent polymers market is utilized widely in hygiene products like diapers, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products. Super absorbent polymers are synthetic polymers that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their mass. They are cross-linked polymers that can absorb hundreds of times their own weight in water or aqueous solutions under pressure. Super absorbent polymers contain pore-forming agents that create a sponge-like structure in the hydrogel. Products containing super absorbent polymers help reduce the bulkiness of disposable hygiene products.
The global super absorbent polymers market is estimated to be valued at US$ 8.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.0% over the forecast period 2024 to 2032, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market Dynamics:
Super absorbent polymers market opportunity to be expanded in agricultural applications:
As mentioned in the heading, the growing application of super absorbent polymers in agriculture is expected to drive the market growth over the forecast period. Super absorbent polymers are increasingly being used in soil conditioning and horticulture due to their ability to absorb a large volume of water and retain it for plants. Their use reduces water usage for irrigation by upto 50%. They aid in water retention and help improve soil fertility. With growing concerns over water scarcity and the need to boost agricultural yields, the adoption of super absorbent polymers is projected to increase significantly in the coming years.
Rising demand from emerging economies:
Emerging economies like China, India, Brazil, and others are increasingly witnessing rising disposable incomes and growing awareness about hygiene products like diapers and feminine hygiene products. This is anticipated to boost the sales of super absorbent polymers in these regions. Furthermore, increasing mechanization and usage of technology in agriculture in developing nations is expected to fuel the adoption of super absorbent polymers to combat water stress.
Segment Analysis
The global super absorbent polymers market is primarily segmented into product type and application. Based on product type, the market is segmented into sodium polyacrylate and polyacrylate/polyacrylamide copolymer. The sodium polyacrylate segment dominated the market in 2020 and accounted for the largest revenue share owing to its low cost and high absorption capacity. By application, the market is segmented into personal hygiene, agriculture products, medical, industrial, and others. The personal hygiene segment dominated the market and is expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period. The increasing usage ofSAPs in adult incontinence products and baby diapers is boosting the growth of this segment.
PEST Analysis
- Political: Government regulations regarding usage of SAPs play a key role in market growth. Regulations like REACH in Europe help ensure product safety.
- Economic: Emerging economies like China and India offer high growth potential due to rising disposable incomes and expanding medical industries. Growing agriculture sector also contributes to demand.
- Social: Rapid urbanization and aging population have increased demand for adult incontinence products and baby diapers containingSAPs. Consumers prefer high-absorption hygiene products for convenience.
- Technological: Manufacturers focus on developing advanced production processes to lower costs and reduce environmental impact. Production of biodegradableSAPs through new techniques can improve sustainability.
Key Takeaways
The global super absorbent polymers market is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period.
North America dominated the market in 2020 and is expected to maintain its dominance. Growth in the region can be attributed to increasing use ofSAPscontaining hygiene products and maturing medical sector.
Europe is expected to be the second fastest growing regional market. Stringent regulations regarding product quality and safety are ensuring market maturity in the region. Key players like BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, LG Chem Ltd. and Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd. hold a majority share of the global market. These players focus on expanding production capacities and developing advanced product grades to gain higher market shares.
Key players operating in the super absorbent polymers market are BASF SE, Nippon Shokubai Co. Ltd., Evonik Industries AG, Sumitomo Seika Chemicals Company Ltd., LG Chemicals Ltd. Sanyo Chemical Industries. The major players are focusing on tapping growth opportunities in emerging economies by enhancing their production capabilities. Players are investing in R&D activities to develop innovative products with enhanced absorption capacities and gel strength.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
