Strategic Overview of the Acrylic Acid Market: Growth Opportunities and Challenges
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Market Overview
Global Acrylic Acid Market size and share is currently valued at USD 14.12 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to generate an estimated revenue of USD 20.66 billion by 2034, according to the latest study by Polaris Market Research. Besides, the report notes that the market exhibits a robust 3.9% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the forecasted timeframe, 2025 - 2034
The acrylic acid market is experiencing robust momentum due to its broad applicability and rising consumption in end-use sectors such as personal care, construction, textiles, and packaging. The compound is primarily produced through the oxidation of propylene and is further processed into acrylate esters like butyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, and methyl acrylate for industrial applications.
One of the most significant drivers of market growth is the increasing demand for superabsorbent polymers, especially in the manufacture of disposable diapers, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene items. These polymers, derived from acrylic acid, are capable of absorbing and retaining large amounts of liquid, making them essential for personal hygiene products.
Another major application area is adhesives and sealants, where acrylic acid derivatives enhance bonding strength, flexibility, and weather resistance. The automotive, electronics, and construction sectors heavily rely on acrylic-based adhesives for structural and non-structural bonding.
The surface coatings segment also represents a strong growth area. Acrylic-based coatings offer excellent UV resistance, color retention, and durability, making them ideal for use in architectural finishes, automotive paints, and industrial protective layers.
Additionally, the rising need for water treatment chemicals to address water scarcity and industrial effluent concerns has led to a growing demand for acrylic acid-based polymers. These compounds improve coagulation and flocculation processes, helping industries and municipalities ensure clean and safe water.
Market Segmentation
The acrylic acid market can be segmented based on derivative type, application, and end-use industry.
By Derivative Type:
- Acrylate Esters
- Butyl Acrylate
- Methyl Acrylate
- Ethyl Acrylate
- 2-Ethylhexyl Acrylate
- Superabsorbent Polymers
- Others (Polymers for Water Treatment, Flocculants, Dispersants)
Acrylate esters are widely used in paints, coatings, textiles, and adhesives due to their versatility and ability to polymerize easily. Superabsorbent polymers account for a large share of global acrylic acid consumption, especially in hygiene and medical applications.
By Application:
- Diapers and Personal Hygiene Products
- Adhesives and Sealants
- Surface Coatings
- Water Treatment
- Textiles
- Others (Paper, Plastics, Detergents)
The personal care and hygiene sector is the largest application segment, led by the proliferation of baby diapers and sanitary products worldwide. Meanwhile, the adhesives and sealants and surface coatings segments are seeing increased adoption in industrial and commercial environments due to their enhanced performance and environmental compliance.
By End-Use Industry:
- Personal Care & Hygiene
- Construction
- Automotive
- Packaging
- Water & Wastewater Treatment
- Textiles
- Agriculture
The personal care industry remains the top consumer of acrylic acid, driven by continuous innovation in absorbent materials. The construction and automotive sectors utilize acrylic-based products for bonding, insulation, and surface protection. Meanwhile, the agricultural sector uses acrylic acid derivatives in moisture retention agents and controlled-release fertilizers.
𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞:
https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/acrylic-acid-market
Regional Analysis
The acrylic acid market spans across key regions, including Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, with Asia-Pacific leading in both production and consumption.
Asia-Pacific dominates the global market, accounting for a significant share due to rapid industrialization, expanding hygiene product usage, and strong demand from the construction and automotive sectors. China and India are at the forefront, supported by favorable government policies, a growing middle class, and infrastructure development. The region is also home to several large-scale acrylic acid manufacturing plants, contributing to both domestic and export demand.
North America holds a strong position in the market, with the U.S. being a major producer and consumer. The region’s advanced manufacturing base, high hygiene awareness, and demand for environmentally friendly coatings are driving steady growth. Investments in water infrastructure and wastewater treatment are also boosting demand for acrylic acid in polymer flocculants and coagulants.
Europe is a mature market but continues to evolve due to stringent environmental regulations, sustainable product innovation, and robust demand from the packaging, paints, and coatings sectors. Germany, France, and the UK are key markets in this region.
Latin America is seeing moderate growth, led by Brazil and Mexico. Rising disposable incomes, increasing urbanization, and growing demand for personal hygiene and construction materials are supporting market expansion.
Middle East & Africa is emerging as a promising region, driven by increasing infrastructure development, population growth, and investment in hygiene and water treatment sectors. Countries like the UAE and South Africa are actively incorporating advanced polymer solutions in both industrial and consumer applications.
Key Companies
The global acrylic acid market is highly competitive and marked by the presence of major chemical manufacturers and regional producers. These companies focus on capacity expansion, integration of green chemistry, and strategic partnerships to strengthen their market positions.
- Shanghai Huayi Acrylic Acid Co., Ltd
- NIPPON SHOKUBAI CO., LTD.
- Dow
- Sinopec
- Formosa Plastics Corporation
- Sasol
- Wanhua
- Vigon International, LLC.
- SMC
- BASF
- Arkema
- LG Chem
Conclusion
The acrylic acid market is on a dynamic growth trajectory, fueled by increasing demand for high-performance and sustainable materials across hygiene, construction, automotive, and water treatment sectors. With superabsorbent polymers and acrylic esters at the heart of this growth, the industry is evolving through innovation, environmental stewardship, and global expansion. As manufacturers respond to shifting market needs, acrylic acid will remain a vital component in the development of modern industrial and consumer solutions.
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