Global sales of adsorbents stood at USD 5,470.1 million in 2023. The market is further projected to exhibit a Y-O-Y growth of 5.1% in 2024 and reach USD 5,751.1 million in the same year. Surging at a CAGR of 5.8% between 2024 and 2034, demand for the substance is estimated to reach USD 10,102 million by 2034.
Molecular sieve is set to be extensively used in the water treatment, petroleum and petrochemicals, and chemical industries. As of 2024, this product type holds a prominent share of about 42% in terms of volume.
Activated alumina is projected to showcase a notable consumption due to its wide range of applications in end-use industries. Its beneficial features, such as excellent adsorption capacity, large surface area, and chemical stability make it a popular choice for several applications. Hence, it is anticipated to rise at a favorable value CAGR of 6.5% throughout the forecast period.
| Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Estimated Global Adsorbent Market Size (2024E) | USD 5,751.1 million |
| Projected Global Adsorbent Market Value (2034F) | USD 10,102 million |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 5.8% |
By 2034, demand for adsorbents is anticipated to increase by 1.8 times from the current value. This significant growth in consumption is predicted to rise worldwide due to increasing emphasis on the need for clean industrial processes, particularly in the petroleum, petrochemical, and chemical industries.
As these industries strive to reduce emissions and enhance the purity of their products, demand for high-performance absorptive materials will likely rise.
The growing global focus on water and air purification to ensure access to clean water and improve air quality is another leading factor contributing to the rising demand. The booming pharmaceutical and food processing sectors also play a crucial role, as they require efficient adsorption materials for purification and quality control.
With continuous innovations in adsorbent technologies and the expansion of end-use industries, the global consumption of adsorbents is poised for steady growth over the next decade.
Governments worldwide are implementing strict environmental regulations to reduce pollution and protect natural resources. For instance, the petroleum and petrochemical industries are required to minimize emissions and treat wastewater more effectively.
Adsorbents like activated carbon and molecular sieves are essential in these processes, helping companies meet regulatory standards and reduce their environmental impact. This is anticipated to augment demand for absorptive materials in these industries.
Air separation and drying processes are critical in various industrial applications, including the production of gases like oxygen and nitrogen. Silica gel and molecular sieves are commonly used to remove moisture and impurities from these gases, ensuring high purity and performance.
With innovations in these technologies and the growing need for industrial gases, demand for adsorbents in air separation and drying applications is projected to rise.
The food processing industry is increasingly focused on ensuring the safety and quality of food products. Adsorbents like activated carbon are set to be used to remove impurities, odors, and unwanted colors from food and beverages.
For instance, in the production of edible oils, activated carbon helps to purify the oil, enhancing its quality. As consumers demand high-quality food products, the use of absorptive materials in food processing is likely to increase.
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The annual growth rates of the global adsorbent industry from 2024 to 2034 are illustrated in the table below. Starting with the base year 2023 and going up to the present year 2024, the report examines how the growth trajectory changes from the first half of the year, i.e.
January through June (H1) to the second half consisting of July through December (H2). This gives stakeholders a comprehensive picture of the industry’s performance over time and insights into potential future developments.
The figures provided show the growth of the market for each half-year between 2023 and 2024. It was projected to increase at a CAGR of 5.5% in the first half (H1) of 2023. However, in the second half (H2), there is a noticeable increase in the growth rate at 6.1%.
| Particulars | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 5.5% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 6.1% (2023 to 2033) |
| H1 | 5.4% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 6.2% (2024 to 2034) |
Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2024, the CAGR is projected to slightly decrease to 5.4% in the first half and relatively increase to 6.2% in the second half. In the first half (H1), the market saw a decline of 10 BPS while in the second half (H2), there was a slight increase of 10 BPS.
Emphasis on Recyclability and Reusability to Help Create a Circular Economy
The growing focus on recyclability and reusability to implement principles of the circular economy is pushing worldwide sustainability efforts. Resource conservancy is receiving more emphasis as waste reduction becomes a hot topic.
The development of absorptive materials, such as polymeric materials for improved recyclability and multiple use-cycling is gaining momentum. This trend demonstrates the ongoing dedication to reduce environmental impact. It also encourages circular or cradle-to-cradle absorptive material regeneration, which allows for improved sustainability of operations at low resource consumption.
Strict regulatory rules for the environment and a rising emphasis on corporate sustainability are further fueling the industry. Both governments and businesses understand that there is a need to adopt more green solutions.
Hence, companies are developing novel solutions that can support a circular economy framework and match regulations as well as corporate sustainability standards. They are anticipated to offer strategic alignment with regulatory demands of operating sustainably.
Pharmaceutical Industry Propels Use in Drug Manufacturing Processes
Continuous growth of the pharmaceutical industry is one of the key factors supporting adsorbent usage for drug manufacturing processes. These are widely used in pharmaceuticals for the purification and separation of different components during drug production.
They also help isolate and purify target compounds in processes, such as chromatography. This is especially important for the pharmaceutical industry where high quality and purity of drugs must be maintained to meet compliance regulations. A typical application is the purification of antibiotics and several other pharmaceutical products by using activated carbon as an absorptive material.
The booming pharmaceutical industry worldwide is looking for the efficacy and multi-functionality of absorbents. With rising research work related to healthcare, beneficial solutions are likely to remain popular through 2034 for drug manufacturing purposes.
Demand to Skyrocket among Petrochemical and Chemical Manufacturers
Increasing industrialization across the globe is augmenting the requirement for absorptive materials. These are set to be employed in several applications across industries like petroleum, petrochemicals, and chemicals.
They are projected to be used in the petroleum industry for refining purposes to purify products and comply with critical quality requirements. These substances are also essential in the petrochemical and chemical industries where they allow separation processes to take place.
It further enables the production of high-quality substances. Growing industrial activities, underpinned by the increasing world economy, are directly propelling demand for adsorbents across verticals transforming them into an integral part of operations to improve product quality.
The substances help mitigate challenges ranging from air separation and drying to pharmaceuticals and food processing. Consumers are seeking these substances to ensure compliance with necessary regulatory standards and maintain operational excellence. This acknowledgment obliges the superior demand for these materials as irreplaceable agents of a vast range with diverse utilities ultimately leading to their placement amongst necessary resources on earth.
Concerns of Worker Safety Amid High Risk of Respiratory Issues May Limit Demand
One of the key restraints in the industry includes health-related risks associated with the production of the substances. Individuals who manufacture and handle absorptive materials like activated carbon and silica gel are often exposed to a variety of hazards. These include respiratory problems as well as chemical sensitivities.
The risks in such applications are magnified further when specialized use cases, like pharmaceutical and food processing, necessitate that the droplets be made non-toxic.
The instances of poor safety practices demonstrated during adsorbent handling are a reminder that health and safety measures must be strict. For instance, the physical work in manufacturing may mean the inhalation of airborne particles. It can result in respiratory issues for some workers and can affect their well-being.
Concerns for the possible toxicity of absorptive materials in pharmaceuticals and food processing illustrate a growing demand to comply with health standards. If companies are unable to provide or maintain plans to combat these health-related challenges, growth could be hampered.
Principal Consultant
The global market witnessed a CAGR of 3.7% between 2019 and 2023. Total revenue reached about USD 5,470.1 million in 2023. During the forecast period, global sales are projected to fetch a CAGR of 5.8%.
The adsorbent market witnessed a sluggish demand trajectory during the historical period on account of the global spread of COVID-19. As the need for adsorbents grew, supply chain disruptions from the pandemic caused a reduction in production and logistics.
A slowdown was also witnessed in most of the key application industries, such as petroleum, chemicals, and manufacturing resulting in a decreased demand for absorptive materials. Growth was also constrained by the lockdown and the ban on industrial operations.
During this time of uncertainly and declining global economy, few projects, especially in the massive absorptive material consumption sectors, were delayed or even called off resulting in overall slow industry performance.
The global market is anticipated to revive and display a positive trajectory throughout the forecast period. As end-users recover from the pandemic and strict environmental regulations continue, high demand for clean production processes is predicted. This, coupled with increasing focus on sustainable methods, particularly in water treatment and air purification sectors, is poised to spur growth.
Tier 1 companies include industry leaders with annual revenues exceeding USD 300 million. These companies are currently capturing a significant share of 35% to 45% globally. These frontrunners are characterized by high production capacity and a wide product portfolio.
They are distinguished by extensive expertise in manufacturing and a broad geographical reach, underpinned by a robust consumer base. The firms provide a wide range of products and utilize the latest technology to meet regulatory standards. Prominent companies within Tier 1 include BASF SE, Honeywell International Inc., TOSOH Corporation, Arkema S.A, Clariant AG, and W.R. Grace & Co.
Tier 2 companies encompass mid-sized participants with revenues ranging from USD 50 to 300 million, holding a presence in specific regions and exerting prominent influence in local economies. These firms are distinguished by their robust presence overseas and in-depth market expertise.
They possess strong technology capabilities and adhere strictly to regulatory requirements. However, the firms may not wield cutting-edge technology or maintain an extensive global reach.
Noteworthy entities in Tier 2 include Ecovyst Inc., CPH Group, Spectrum Chemical, Albemarle Corporation, PQ Corp., Luoyang Jalon Micro-Nano New Materials Co., Ltd., KNT Group, and KMI Molecular Sieves Inc.
Tier 3 encompasses most of the small-scale enterprises operating within the regional sphere and catering to specialized needs with revenues below USD 50 million. These businesses are notably focused on meeting local demands and are hence categorized within the Tier 3 segment.
They are small-scale participants with limited geographical presence. In this context, Tier 3 is acknowledged as an informal sector, indicating a segment distinguished by a lack of extensive organization and formal structure in comparison to the structured one. Tier 3 includes Silkem d.o.o., Sorbead India, Zeotec Adsorbents Private Limited., Axens S.A, Zeochem AG, and Siddhartha Industries.
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The section covers assessments of adsorbent sales across key countries. Countries from the Middle East and Africa are anticipated to exhibit promising double-digit growth over the forecast period. All the below-listed countries are collectively set to reflect a CAGR of around 8% through the forecast period, which is 1.2X of the global market.
| Countries | CAGR 2024 to 2034 |
|---|---|
| South Africa | 8.8% |
| Türkiye | 8.3% |
| Kingdom of Saudi Arabia | 7.8% |
| Poland | 7.5% |
| Brazil | 7.3% |
China's position as a leading producer of petrochemicals directly impacts demand for absorptive materials. The country has a massive refining capacity, requiring substances like activated alumina and molecular sieves to purify and process raw materials.
Unlike several other countries, China's petrochemical industry is vast and continues to broaden, bolstering a substantial need for absorptive materials to maintain high production quality and efficiency. This unique scale and growth make China a key country.
China's extensive use of coal-to-chemicals technology, a process where coal is converted into chemicals like methanol and olefins, is a significant growth-boosting factor. Adsorbents are essential in purifying gases and removing impurities during this conversion process. The industry is particularly prominent in China due to its abundant coal resources and energy strategy, setting it apart from other industries where coal usage is declining.
China is also a global leader in rare earth element (REE) production, and adsorbent materials play a key role in extracting and refining these elements. In REE processing, substances like activated carbon are used to remove impurities and extract valuable materials. China's dominance in the rare earth element sector drives a unique and consistent demand for specialized absorptive materials.
China’s chemical manufacturing sector, particularly specialty chemicals, is one of the most prominent in the world. Adsorbent materials are important for the production and purification processes of these chemicals. For instance, molecular sieves are used for separating and refining chemical compounds to ensure high purity. The sheer scale of chemical production in China, which far exceeds that of most other countries, augments a high consumption of absorptive materials, making it a key country.
In the forecast period, the United States is predicted to rise steadily at a CAGR of 4.5% and attain a total worth of USD 1,288 million by 2034. The country is considered a global leader in the fields of pharmaceuticals and biotechnology that heavily rely on adsorbents for purification and separation processes. Materials like polymeric adsorbents and molecular sieves are important in producing high-purity drugs and biopharmaceuticals, driving significant demand.
The United States also has one of the most developed water treatment infrastructures globally, requiring high-performance activated carbon and alumina for water purification and contaminant removal. The growing focus on clean water standards and environmental regulations continues to propel demand in water treatment applications.
The country’s government has been implementing stringent air quality regulations, which have led to a high demand for adsorbent materials in air purification systems, particularly in industrial settings. Silica gel and activated carbon are essential in removing pollutants and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
The United States is at the forefront of research and development in terms of adsorbent technologies, bolstering innovations in more efficient and specialized materials. This focus on innovation supports a competitive domestic market, which ensures the availability of cutting-edge products tailored to meet specific needs.
India is projected to surge at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2024 to 2034, with sales set to reach USD 832 million by 2034. The country’s booming petroleum and petrochemical sectors are key consumers of adsorbents.
India’s refining capacity is broadening. Hence, activated alumina and molecular sieves are gaining momentum as these are set to be used in processes like desulfurization and purification. This industry-specific demand distinguishes India as a key consumer.
Government programs like the “Jal Jeevan Mission” aim to provide clean drinking water to every household, augmenting demand for these substances in water treatment applications. Activated alumina, in particular, is used to remove contaminants, such as fluoride and arsenic from drinking water, making it important for these initiatives.
India is becoming a global hub for chemical manufacturing, with a focus on producing specialty chemicals. The substances are essential for purification and refining processes in the country. As chemical manufacturing continues to broaden, the need for high-quality adsorbents like molecular sieves and activated carbon will likely rise.
India’s growing commitment to environmental sustainability, pushed by strict regulations and international agreements, has led to the rising use of adsorbents in pollution control. These are set to be used in applications, such as removing pollutants from industrial emissions and treating wastewater, to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
The section explains the growth trajectories of the leading segments. In terms of product type, molecular sieves will likely dominate and generate a value share of around 41.6% in 2024.
Based on application, the petroleum and petrochemical segment is projected to hold a share of 31.4% in 2024. The analysis would enable potential clients to make effective business decisions for investment purposes.
| Segment | Molecular Sieve (Product Type) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 41.6% |
By product type, the molecular sieve segment is forecast to experience a decent CAGR of 5.9% from 2024 to 2034. These are extensively used in natural gas processing, particularly in the removal of water and impurities from gas streams.
For instance, in liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants, molecular sieves are significant for dehydrating gas to prevent pipeline blockages and ensure smooth operation. This specific application drives a key portion of the molecular sieve segment.
Molecular sieves are also essential in producing high-purity oxygen for medical use, especially in healthcare facilities and oxygen concentrators.
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of reliable oxygen supply, increasing the demand for molecular sieves in medical applications. This trend continues as healthcare systems worldwide broaden their capacity to prepare for future health crises, further fueling growth.
| Segment | Petroleum and Petrochemical (Application) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 31.4% |
The petroleum and pharmaceutical industry, with a projected value share of 31.4% in 2024, is poised to significantly impact the global market. It relies heavily on adsorbents for critical purification and separation processes.
Substances like molecular sieves and activated alumina are essential in refining crude oil and producing high-quality petrochemical products.
For instance, in the desulfurization process, the substances help remove sulfur compounds from fuel, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The complexity and scale of these processes make the substances indispensable, boosting the segment’s dominance worldwide.
The ongoing expansion of refining capacity and petrochemical production, particularly in regions like Asia Pacific and the Middle East, also contributes significantly to the dominance of the segment.
As new refineries and petrochemical plants are established, demand for adsorbents increases. For instance, rising global petrochemical demand, boosted by plastic and chemical manufacturers, directly impacts the consumption of adsorbents in this industry.
The section provides comprehensive assessments and insights that highlight current opportunities and emerging trends for companies in developed and developing countries. It analyzes innovations in manufacturing and identifies the latest trends poised to push new applications in the industry.
A few key players in the adsorbent industry are actively enhancing their capabilities and resources to cater to the growing demand for the substance across diverse applications. Leading companies also leverage partnership and joint venture strategies to co-develop innovative products and extend their resource base.
Significant players are further introducing new products to address the rising demand for state-of-the-art solutions in several end-use industries. Broadening geographic footprint is another important strategy that is being embraced by reputed companies. Start-ups are likely to emerge in the market through 2034, thereby making it more competitive.
Industry Updates
Product types included in the study are activated alumina, activated carbon, molecular sieve, clay, silica gel, and polymeric adsorbent.
Petroleum and petrochemicals, chemicals, water treatment, air separation and drying, pharmaceuticals, and food processing are the main applications.
Regions considered in the report are North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, East Asia, South Asia and Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa.
The adsorbent industry is valued at USD 5,757.10 million in 2024.
The market size is estimated to increase at a 5.80% CAGR through 2034.
The market is expected to be worth USD 10,117.20 million by 2034.
Molecular sieve is highly preferred in the market.
The market in India is predicted to expand at an 8.40% CAGR through 2034.
1. Executive Summary 2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition 3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-Economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments 4. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections 5. Pricing Analysis 6. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034 6.1. Product Type 6.2. Application 7. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Product Type 7.1. Activated Alumina 7.2. Activated Carbon 7.3. Molecular Sieve 7.4. Clay 7.5. Silica Gel 7.6. Polymeric Adsorbent 8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Application 8.1. Petroleum & Petrochemical 8.2. Chemicals 8.3. Water Treatment 8.4. Air Separation & Drying 8.5. Pharmaceutical 8.6. Food Processing 8.7. Others 9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region 9.1. North America 9.2. Latin America 9.3. Western Europe 9.4. Eastern Europe 9.5. East Asia 9.6. South Asia Pacific 9.7. Middle East and Africa 10. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 11. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 12. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 13. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 14. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 15. South Asia Pacific Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 16. Middle East and Africa Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 17. Sales Forecast 2024 to 2034 by Product Type and Application for 30 Countries 18. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard 19. Company Profile 19.1. BASF SE 19.2. TOSOH Corporation 19.3. Honeywell International Inc. 19.4. Arkema S.A 19.5. CPH Group 19.6. Clariant AG 19.7. Ecovyst Inc. 19.8. Grace & Co. 19.9. Spectrum Chemical 19.10. Albemarle Corporation 19.11. PQ Corp. 19.12. Luoyang Jalon Micro-Nano New Materials Co., Ltd 19.13. KNT Group 19.14. KMI Molecular Sieves Inc. 19.15. Silkem d.o.o. 19.16. Sorbead India 19.17. Zeotec Private Limited 19.18. Axens S.A 19.19. Zeochem AG 19.20. Siddhartha Industries
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Adsorbent Market
