Acrolein Market
By Type;
Propylene Oxidation Method and Glycerol Dehydration MethodBy Application;
Methionine, Glutaraldehyde, Biocide, Chemical Precursor, Herbicide, Fixative, Water Treatment Agent and OthersBy End-Use;
Paints & Coatings, Polymer, Industrial Manufacturing and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Acrolein Market Overview
Acrolein Market (USD Million)
Acrolein Market was valued at USD 1,943.47 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 2,247.80 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.1%.
Acrolein Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 2.1 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 2.1 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 1,943.47 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 2,247.80 Million |
| Market Concentration | High |
| Report Pages | 394 |
Major Players
- BASF SE
- The Dow Chemical Company
- Arkema S.A.
- Huntsman Corporation
- Solvay S.A.
- Evonik Industries AG
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- Formosa Plastics Corporation
- Jiangshan Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Kraton Corporation
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Acrolein Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Acrolein Market is expanding steadily, supported by its wide use in chemical intermediates, biocides, and polymer production. Around 40% of acrolein demand comes from specialty chemical manufacturing, demonstrating its strong role in industrial processes. Its adaptability continues to drive broader applications across multiple sectors.
Superior Functional Characteristics
Nearly 35% of acrolein usage is tied to its role in synthesizing methionine and other amino acids, showcasing its high reactivity and antimicrobial properties. These features ensure efficiency in performance-driven processes, making acrolein a valuable compound in specialty chemical applications.
Technological Advancements in Production
About 30% of recent innovations in the market are centered on advanced production technologies. Developments in catalytic oxidation and sustainable processes are reducing environmental impact while improving production yields. These technological improvements are reinforcing the growth of the Acrolein Market.
Expanding Industrial Applications
Close to 25% of applications across water treatment, agriculture, and leather processing incorporate acrolein-based products. Their contribution to antimicrobial effectiveness, performance durability, and chemical resistance highlights the compound’s broad utility. This growing application base underscores its rising significance in industrial operations.
Supportive Market Trends
More than 45% of innovation initiatives in specialty chemicals now feature acrolein as a component in sustainable and high-performance solutions. Its continued integration into advanced formulations reflects its long-term importance in the evolving Acrolein Market.
Acrolein Market Key Takeaways
-
Acrolein's versatility as a chemical intermediate underpins its demand across various sectors, including agriculture, water treatment, and pharmaceuticals.
-
North America holds a significant share in the acrolein market, driven by advanced chemical manufacturing infrastructure and strong demand for specialty chemicals.
-
Asia-Pacific is experiencing rapid growth in acrolein consumption, fueled by industrial expansion and increasing demand in agriculture and water treatment applications.
-
Bio-based production methods are gaining traction, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional petrochemical routes and aligning with global environmental goals.
-
Health and environmental concerns associated with acrolein's toxicity are prompting stricter regulations and driving innovation towards safer production and application practices.
-
Strategic investments in methionine production facilities are expected to bolster acrolein demand, as it serves as a key precursor in animal feed additives.
-
Technological advancements in acrolein production processes are enhancing efficiency and reducing costs, supporting market growth and competitiveness.
Acrolein Market Recent Developments
-
In November 2022, Arkema announced a significant enhancement in its sustainable solutions portfolio. Utilizing innovative monomers, the company now offers customized acrylic additives and bio-attributed resins certified for a variety of industrial applications.
-
In September 2023, ongoing research focused on microbial production of acrolein using renewable feedstocks like glycerol, providing a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional petroleum-based production.
Acrolein MarketSegment Analysis
In this report, the Acrolein Markethas been segmented by Type, Application, End-Use and Geography.
Acrolein Market, Segmentation by Type
The Acrolein Market by Type reflects two dominant production pathways that shape cost structures, sustainability profiles, and downstream accessibility. Companies evaluate feedstock availability, integration with existing assets, and regulatory pressures on emissions to select their preferred route. Strategic moves increasingly center on process optimization, catalyst innovation, and partnerships that secure reliable supply to high-growth applications across animal nutrition, biocides, and specialty chemicals.
Propylene Oxidation Method
The propylene oxidation route remains a widely established option due to mature technology, robust process reliability, and alignment with integrated petrochemical complexes. Market participants pursue operational excellence through catalyst life extension, heat-integration, and selective oxidation control to enhance yields and reduce by-products. While exposure to propylene price volatility is a key challenge, backward integration and long-term offtake agreements help stabilize margins and support expansion in regions with strong petrochemical infrastructure.
Glycerol Dehydration Method
The glycerol dehydration route is strategically attractive where biodiesel-derived glycerol is abundant, supporting circular-economy narratives and lowering scope-3 footprints for downstream users. Producers focus on catalyst robustness, impurity tolerance, and continuous processing to overcome variability in crude glycerol quality. As customers emphasize sustainability in procurement, this pathway enables differentiation via low-carbon claims, fostering partnerships with biodiesel players and opening opportunities in water treatment and biocide value chains.
Acrolein Market, Segmentation by Application
Application dynamics in the Acrolein Market are driven by demand visibility, diversification of end-use sectors, and shifting regulatory frameworks in agrochemicals and industrial hygiene. Suppliers compete on purity, stability, and logistics to serve high-specification uses while balancing safety and handling requirements. Growth strategies prioritize closer customer qualification, secure multi-year offtake, and tailored formulations that enhance performance in nutrition, disinfection, and synthesis routes across specialty chemicals.
Methionine
Acrolein is a critical intermediate toward DL-methionine and related derivatives, linking the market to animal feed and broader protein production trends. Producers emphasize continuous supply, impurity control, and integration with upstream routes to ensure consistent conversion economics. With livestock and aquaculture nutrition seeking efficiency gains and lower environmental impact, reliable acrolein availability supports capacity additions and regional balancing of methionine supply.
Glutaraldehyde
As a key precursor to glutaraldehyde, acrolein underpins applications in disinfection, oil & gas water systems, and high-performance crosslinking chemistries. Market participants differentiate through product stewardship, packaging innovations, and service models that optimize dosing and safety. Regulatory compliance and end-user training remain essential, while partnerships with service companies expand reach into industrial water and hygiene programs.
Biocide
Direct use in biocide formulations addresses microbial control across industrial water circuits, pulp & paper, and manufacturing utilities. Vendors focus on efficacy, dosage flexibility, and compatibility with multi-chemical treatment regimes. As facilities aim for operational uptime and reduced biofouling, acrolein-based solutions compete on performance and lifecycle cost, supported by technical service and monitoring capabilities.
Chemical Precursor
As a versatile chemical precursor, acrolein feeds into specialty molecules, resins, and fine chemicals that require high reactivity and controlled selectivity. Supply reliability, specification consistency, and safe handling practices are key decision factors for buyers. Producers pursue portfolio breadth and application development to seed new downstream use-cases, reinforcing stickiness with formulators and custom manufacturers.
Herbicide
Use in select herbicide formulations ties demand to agronomic cycles, regulatory approvals, and regional pest-pressure trends. Suppliers balance active-ingredient economics with stewardship requirements, ensuring safe transport and storage near agricultural hubs. Collaboration with distributors and contract applicators enhances market coverage and supports compliance with evolving environmental standards.
Fixative
In niche fixative applications, acrolein contributes to crosslinking and stabilization, where precision dosing and material compatibility are critical. Producers emphasize technical guidance, small-lot flexibility, and documentation to meet quality assurance needs in specialized operations. Growth stems from close customer development and adaptation to new substrates and processing conditions.
Water Treatment Agent
For water treatment, acrolein addresses microbial load and biofilm management in industrial systems, pipelines, and utilities. Vendors compete on treatment efficacy, site-specific program design, and integrated monitoring to assure compliance and asset integrity. Partnerships with water service companies expand solution breadth, while attention to worker safety and emission control remains central to adoption.
Others
The Others category captures emerging or smaller-scale uses where acrolein’s reactivity provides a performance edge. Market participants test new formulations, pilot novel synthesis steps, and explore co-location near customers to reduce logistics risk. As specialty users scale, suppliers with agile supply chains and strong application support can convert trials into recurring demand.
Acrolein Market, Segmentation by End-Use
End-use patterns in the Acrolein Market reflect linkages to Paints & Coatings, Polymers, and Industrial Manufacturing, where performance attributes and compliance requirements guide purchasing. Vendors strengthen positions through qualified grades, reliable delivery, and co-development that aligns with customers’ process windows. Future outlook centers on safety-by-design, ESG-aligned sourcing, and regionalization strategies that bring production closer to demand.
Paints & Coatings
In Paints & Coatings, acrolein-enabled intermediates support adhesion, crosslink density, and durability objectives across protective and industrial finishes. Suppliers emphasize consistency, low trace impurities, and documentation that streamlines regulatory audits. Co-development with formulators enables performance tuning for corrosion resistance and film integrity, supporting growth alongside infrastructure and maintenance spending.
Polymer
Polymer value chains utilize acrolein in routes to specialty monomers and additives where reactivity and selectivity determine efficiency. Producers target stable supply, packaging suited to polymer plants, and technical support for safe handling. As converters seek higher-performance materials with sustainability credentials, integrated suppliers that ensure traceability and optimized conversion economics gain preference.
Industrial Manufacturing
Broader Industrial Manufacturing uses span water systems, disinfection regimes, and synthesis steps embedded in process industries. Customers prioritize operational reliability, predictable dosing, and service models that minimize downtime. Growth opportunities arise from modernization of utilities, adoption of condition monitoring, and programs that improve safety and environmental performance.
Others
The Others end-use bucket includes specialized and emerging niches where acrolein’s chemistry offers unique value. Suppliers cultivate these opportunities through pilot partnerships, flexible minimum order quantities, and rapid technical feedback loops. Over time, repeatable performance and validated safety protocols can translate these niches into durable revenue streams.
Acrolein Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Acrolein Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America benefits from integrated petrochemical infrastructure, biodiesel capacity for glycerol feed, and stringent industrial water standards that sustain biocide and water-treatment demand. Market strategies emphasize long-term contracts, safety compliance, and service-led models for oil & gas and utilities. Ongoing modernization of assets and emphasis on ESG disclosure support stable growth and resilience against feedstock volatility.
Europe
In Europe, regulatory drivers and circular-economy initiatives elevate interest in the glycerol dehydration route, while diversified specialty chemicals provide downstream optionality. Suppliers focus on low-emission operations, REACH compliance, and collaboration with biodiesel producers to secure sustainable feedstock. Energy-efficiency programs and industrial hygiene standards underpin steady demand across water treatment, coatings precursors, and fine chemicals.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific anchors capacity expansion with large-scale petrochemical hubs, fast-growing animal nutrition chains, and rising industrial water management needs. Market participants deploy cost-advantaged production, regional supply chains, and customer proximity to capture incremental demand in methionine and biocides. Policy support for manufacturing and infrastructure, alongside maturing HSE frameworks, creates strong prospects for new investments and partnerships.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa leverages access to propylene from refining and petrochemical complexes, with opportunities in water treatment for utilities and energy operations. Strategic focus includes localized packaging, safety training, and alliances with service companies to tailor dosing programs. As industrial diversification advances, targeted projects and reliability-centered maintenance practices support gradual market development.
Latin America
In Latin America, biodiesel production creates potential for glycerol-based pathways, while agrochemical and industrial manufacturing applications add demand depth. Suppliers prioritize route-to-market partnerships, regulatory stewardship, and responsive logistics to navigate varied infrastructure. With increasing attention to water efficiency and agricultural productivity, the region presents selective opportunities for capacity tie-ups and application-led growth.
Acrolein Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Acrolein Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation, and Innovation.
| Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
| Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
| Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Rising Demand for Acrylic Acid
- Growth in Plastic and Paint Industries
-
Increased Use in Water Treatment and Agriculture - The application of acrolein in water treatment has become increasingly significant due to its effectiveness as a biocide. Acrolein is employed to control microbial growth in cooling towers, water systems, and industrial processes. Its ability to eliminate bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms makes it a valuable chemical in maintaining the efficiency and safety of water systems. The growing emphasis on maintaining clean and efficient water management systems in industrial, municipal, and agricultural applications drives the demand for acrolein-based biocides. This trend underscores the critical role of acrolein in ensuring the smooth operation of various water treatment processes.
In agriculture, acrolein is utilized as a fumigant and herbicide to control pests and weeds. Its effectiveness in soil sterilization and pest management contributes to higher crop yields and better agricultural productivity. The increasing need for efficient pest control solutions and the adoption of advanced agricultural practices are driving the demand for acrolein in this sector. As agricultural practices evolve to meet the challenges of growing global food demands, acrolein's role in enhancing crop protection and soil health becomes more prominent, supporting its market growth in the agricultural sector.
The rising focus on sustainability and environmental protection is influencing the use of acrolein in water treatment and agriculture. There is a growing demand for environmentally friendly solutions that minimize the ecological impact of chemical applications. As a result, there is increasing interest in developing and utilizing sustainable acrolein production methods and alternatives. Innovations aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of acrolein use align with global sustainability goals and offer opportunities for market expansion. This shift towards greener practices enhances acrolein's appeal in water treatment and agriculture, promoting its adoption in eco-conscious industries.
Restraints:
- Regulatory Challenges and Safety Concerns
- Environmental Impact and Emission Controls
-
Volatility in Raw Material Prices - The volatility in raw material prices significantly impacts the acrolein market by influencing production costs. Acrolein is primarily derived from propylene, and fluctuations in propylene prices directly affect the cost of acrolein production. When propylene prices rise, the cost of manufacturing acrolein increases, leading to higher prices for end products. This volatility can strain profit margins for manufacturers and create pricing uncertainty in the market, affecting both producers and consumers of acrolein.
The instability in raw material prices presents challenges for maintaining market stability. Manufacturers often face difficulties in forecasting and managing production costs due to the unpredictable nature of raw material prices. This can lead to pricing volatility for acrolein, making it challenging for businesses to set stable prices for their products and plan long-term investments. The uncertainty surrounding raw material costs can also impact strategic decision-making and investment in research and development, hindering market growth and innovation.
Despite the challenges, volatility in raw material prices also presents opportunities for strategic adjustments in the acrolein market. Companies can explore alternative sourcing strategies, such as diversifying suppliers or investing in raw material hedging, to mitigate the impact of price fluctuations. Additionally, advancements in production technology and process optimization may reduce dependency on volatile raw materials, leading to more cost-effective and stable production methods. Embracing these strategies can help acrolein producers navigate market uncertainties and maintain a competitive edge in the industry.
Opportunities:
- Development of Bio-Based Acrolein
- Technological Advancements in Production
-
Expanding Applications in Emerging Markets - Emerging markets present significant growth opportunities for the acrolein industry due to expanding industrial sectors. Countries in regions such as Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Africa are experiencing rapid industrialization and urbanization, leading to increased demand for chemicals used in plastics, paints, and coatings. Acrolein's role in producing acrylic acid, which is essential for various industrial applications, makes it a valuable component in these developing markets. As industrial activities intensify, the need for acrolein and its derivatives is expected to rise, driving market growth in these regions.
In emerging markets, the demand for effective agricultural and water treatment solutions is also growing. With increasing agricultural activities and the need for improved crop yields, acrolein's use as a fumigant and herbicide offers a valuable solution for pest and weed control. Additionally, the development of water infrastructure and the need for efficient water management systems drive the adoption of acrolein-based biocides. The growing emphasis on enhancing agricultural productivity and maintaining clean water supplies in these regions presents opportunities for acrolein applications, supporting its expansion into new markets.
Expanding applications in emerging markets offer opportunities for acrolein producers to establish a foothold and capitalize on new growth areas. Companies can leverage local partnerships and invest in region-specific marketing strategies to penetrate these markets effectively. Additionally, adapting products and technologies to meet the unique needs and regulations of emerging markets can further enhance market opportunities. By focusing on these regions, acrolein producers can tap into new revenue streams and drive long-term growth, contributing to the overall expansion of the global acrolein market.
Acrolein Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Acrolein Market is witnessing steady growth, driven by increasing demand in various industrial applications such as chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Companies are focusing on innovation and forming strategic partnerships to enhance market share. The emphasis is on technological advancements to improve production efficiency and reduce environmental impact, further accelerating growth in the market.
Market Structure and Concentration
The Acrolein Market is moderately concentrated, with several key players holding substantial market share. Major companies are employing mergers and acquisitions to consolidate their position and expand their product offerings. The increasing adoption of advanced production methods has also led to improved operational efficiency, benefiting established players.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Companies in the Acrolein Market are leveraging strategic collaborations and channel expansion to reach a wider consumer base. Strong brand positioning and partnerships with distributors and suppliers are helping firms capture growing demand. Additionally, companies are enhancing their online presence and distribution networks to cater to a global audience.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
The key driver in the Acrolein Market is continuous innovation, with companies investing in R&D to improve production processes. Technological advancements in sustainability and energy efficiency have enabled companies to create eco-friendly solutions, ensuring long-term growth. These innovations are shaping the future of acrolein production.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional momentum in the Acrolein Market is largely driven by demand in emerging markets. Companies are focusing on expanding their presence in high-growth regions through local partnerships and tailored strategies. Expansion into new regions is essential for tapping into rising demand and securing a strong foothold in the market.
Future Outlook
The future outlook for the Acrolein Market is positive, as companies continue to focus on innovation and expanding their geographical reach. As sustainability becomes a priority, technological advancements will drive the growth of the market. Collaborative efforts and strategic investments will play a significant role in shaping the future of acrolein production.
Key players in Acrolein Market include:
- BASF SE
- Evonik Industries AG
- Arkema S.A.
- Daicel Corporation
- Merck KGaA
- Hubei Jinghong Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Hubei Shengling Technology Co. Ltd.
- Puyang ShengHuaDe Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Dow Chemical Company
- SABIC
- Westlake Chemical
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- Jiangshan Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Kraton Corporation
- Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd.
- Beijing Eastern Petrochemical Co. Ltd.
- Yixing Xinyu Chemical Co., Ltd.
- BASF SE
- Evonik Industries AG
- Arkema S.A.
- Daicel Corporation
- Merck KGaA
- Hubei Jinghong Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Hubei Shengling Technology Co. Ltd.
- Puyang ShengHuaDe Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Dow Chemical Company
- SABIC
- Westlake Chemical
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- Jiangshan Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Kraton Corporation
- Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd.
- Beijing Eastern Petrochemical Co. Ltd.
- Yixing Xinyu Chemical Co., Ltd.
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By End-Use
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Acrolein Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Rising Demand for Acrylic Acid
- Growth in Plastic and Paint Industries
- Increased Use in Water Treatment and Agriculture
- Restraints
- Regulatory Challenges and Safety Concerns
- Environmental Impact and Emission Controls
- Volatility in Raw Material Prices
- Opportunities
- Development of Bio-Based Acrolein
- Technological Advancements in Production
- Expanding Applications in Emerging Markets
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Acrolein Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Propylene Oxidation Method
- Glycerol Dehydration Method
- Acrolein Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Methionine
- Glutaraldehyde
- Biocide
- Chemical Precursor
- Herbicide
- Fixative
- Water Treatment Agent
- Others
- Acrolein Market, By End-Use, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Paints & Coatings
- Polymer
- Industrial Manufacturing
- Others
- Acrolein Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Acrolein Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- BASF SE
- Evonik Industries AG
- Arkema S.A.
- Daicel Corporation
- Merck KGaA
- Hubei Jinghong Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Hubei Shengling Technology Co. Ltd.
- Puyang ShengHuaDe Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Dow Chemical Company
- SABIC
- Westlake Chemical
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- Jiangshan Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Kraton Corporation
- Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd.
- Beijing Eastern Petrochemical Co. Ltd.
- Yixing Xinyu Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

