Cross Flow Membrane Market
By Product Type;
Microfiltration, Ultrafiltration, Nanofiltration and Reverse OsmosisBy Application;
Water & Wastewater Treatment, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology, Chemical & Petrochemical and OthersBy Material;
Polymeric, Ceramic and OthersBy End User;
Industrial, Municipal and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Cross Flow Membrane Market Overview
Cross Flow Membrane Market (USD Million)
Cross Flow Membrane Market was valued at USD 1134.31 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 2210.45 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.0%.
Cross Flow Membrane Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 10.0 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 10.0 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 1134.31 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 2210.45 Million |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
| Report Pages | 372 |
Major Players
- Dow Water & Process Solutions (a part of Dow Inc.)
- Hydranautics (a Nitto Denko Corporation company)
- Pentair PLC
- GE Water & Process Technologies (a part of SUEZ Water Technologies & Solutions)
- Toray Industries, Inc.
- Koch Membrane Systems, Inc. (a Koch Industries company)
- SUEZ Water Technologies & Solutions
- 3M Purification Inc.
- Membrana (part of the Celgard brand)
- Veolia Water Technologies
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Cross Flow Membrane Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Cross Flow Membrane Market is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone technology in modern filtration, driving efficiency across biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and water purification. Over 65% of industrial users now rely on these membranes due to their superior ability to eliminate suspended solids and microorganisms, establishing them as a more reliable option than traditional filtration methods.
Technological Significance
Cross flow membranes are highly valued for their continuous operation and low clogging tendencies, which contribute to better system performance. Surveys reveal that 58% of industries adopting this technology experience higher product quality and reduced maintenance downtime. Their ability to manage diverse filtration processes, from microfiltration to ultrafiltration, makes them indispensable in precision-driven industries.
Diverse Applications
With utilization reaching 72% in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, dairy, and water treatment, cross flow membranes have become integral to ensuring quality and safety. In pharmaceuticals, they assist in protein and enzyme separation, while in food production, they enhance product safety. Their application diversity reinforces their market dominance in process-critical industries.
Forward-Looking Trends
Future market expansion is strongly supported by ongoing research in membrane technology, with 54% of R&D investment directed toward improving durability and efficiency. Innovations in polymeric and ceramic membranes are expected to broaden their industrial footprint. Their proven balance of cost savings, sustainability, and high performance ensures long-term market growth potential.
Cross Flow Membrane Market Key Takeaways
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Increasing focus on clean water and wastewater management is boosting adoption of cross-flow membrane technologies across industries.
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Food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and biotech sectors are major users due to their need for efficient separation and purification processes.
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Asia-Pacific dominates the global market driven by rapid industrialization and rising investment in water treatment infrastructure.
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Ultrafiltration and nanofiltration membranes are gaining preference for their superior efficiency and versatility in multiple applications.
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High installation costs and membrane fouling issues continue to limit wider adoption among smaller operators.
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Material innovations and smart monitoring systems are improving membrane durability and operational efficiency.
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Manufacturers are optimizing membrane designs such as spiral-wound and tubular configurations to enhance performance and reduce costs.
Cross Flow Membrane Market Recent Developments
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In July 2023, Koch Membrane Systems expanded its product portfolio by introducing new cross-flow filtration technologies designed for industrial applications. These innovations improve operational efficiency, enhance filtration performance, and support sustainable water management across diverse industries.
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In December 2022, Suez Water Technologies completed the acquisition of a specialized membrane technology company to strengthen its product offerings. The acquisition enhances Suez’s capabilities in advanced filtration solutions and reinforces its leadership in water treatment innovation and membrane technology development.
Cross Flow Membrane Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Cross Flow Membrane has been segmented by Product Type, Application, Material, End User and Geography.
Cross Flow Membrane, Segmentation by Product Type
The Cross Flow Membrane market is segmented based on product types, including Microfiltration, Ultrafiltration, Nanofiltration, and Reverse Osmosis. These segments play a crucial role in various filtration applications, with each providing specific solutions based on particle size and permeability. Microfiltration is particularly dominant in industries that require separation of larger particles, while Reverse Osmosis is essential for producing high-quality water by removing dissolved solids. Each product type has unique adoption rates, driven by specific industry needs.
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Microfiltration
Microfiltration membranes are used for the separation of large particles and microorganisms. These membranes are widely used in water treatment and food processing due to their ability to filter particles ranging from 0.1 to 10 microns. This segment has seen steady demand in municipal and industrial applications.
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Ultrafiltration
Ultrafiltration is effective for separating smaller particles, including viruses and bacteria. Its applications in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are growing rapidly, as it helps to meet stringent filtration standards required for drug production and research.
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Nanofiltration
Nanofiltration membranes are used for water softening and selective ion removal. The demand for nanofiltration is increasing in industries where partial desalination and high-quality water are needed. Its adoption is particularly notable in the food and beverage industry for quality control.
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Reverse Osmosis
Reverse Osmosis is the leading technology for water purification, widely used in industries that require pure water, including the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. It is highly efficient at removing contaminants and is crucial in the production of potable water in municipal systems.
Cross Flow Membrane, Segmentation by Application
The Cross Flow Membrane market is divided based on its applications, which include Water & Wastewater Treatment, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology, Chemical & Petrochemical, and others. Each of these applications relies on membrane filtration for specific purposes, such as purifying water, separating contaminants in food processing, and ensuring high-quality standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing. These applications drive a significant portion of the market’s growth.
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Water & Wastewater Treatment
The Water & Wastewater Treatment segment is the largest and fastest-growing application, driven by global water scarcity issues. Cross-flow membranes are crucial for filtration and purification processes in municipal water systems. This segment is expected to see continued investment due to the increasing demand for clean water.
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Food & Beverage
Food & Beverage applications utilize cross-flow membranes for filtration and separation during processing. Membranes are used to separate contaminants from raw materials, such as water and juices, ensuring that the end products meet health and safety standards.
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Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology
Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology applications demand high-purity products, and membranes are vital for separating proteins, cells, and other bioproducts. These industries rely on cross-flow filtration to maintain high-quality standards and comply with stringent regulations.
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Chemical & Petrochemical
Chemical & Petrochemical industries use cross-flow membranes for separation and filtration in the production of various chemicals and materials. Membranes help in the purification of chemicals and the removal of impurities, crucial for product quality and operational efficiency.
Cross Flow Membrane, Segmentation by Material
The market is further segmented by material, with Polymeric, Ceramic, and Others being the key categories. Polymeric membranes dominate the market due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of use, while Ceramic membranes are increasingly favored for their durability and high-temperature resistance in demanding industrial applications. Materials have a direct impact on the performance and lifespan of the membranes.
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Polymeric
Polymeric membranes are widely used across multiple industries, offering good filtration performance at a lower cost. They are ideal for applications where durability and long-term performance are critical. This material segment holds the largest market share in water treatment.
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Ceramic
Ceramic membranes are highly durable and can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, making them suitable for chemical processing and food industry applications. These membranes are more expensive but offer superior performance in harsh conditions.
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Others
The Others material segment includes newer and more specialized membrane technologies, such as composite materials and hybrid membranes. These materials are emerging in niche applications where advanced performance characteristics are required.
Cross Flow Membrane, Segmentation by End User
The Cross Flow Membrane market is also segmented by end users, including Industrial, Municipal, and others. The Industrial segment is driven by its use in water treatment and process industries, while Municipal applications are focused on providing clean water for urban areas. Both segments benefit from growing demand for water purification and filtration technologies.
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Industrial
Industrial applications involve a wide range of sectors including food processing, chemical production, and pharmaceuticals. Cross-flow membranes are used for filtration in harsh industrial environments, ensuring high-quality outputs and operational efficiency.
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Municipal
Municipal end users primarily use cross-flow membranes for large-scale water treatment and distribution. As urbanization increases, municipal water systems are investing heavily in membrane technologies to meet the rising demand for safe drinking water.
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Others
The Others segment includes niche end users such as research institutions and specialized sectors that require advanced filtration solutions for unique applications.
Cross Flow Membrane, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Cross Flow Membrane market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America remains the largest market for cross-flow membranes, driven by advancements in water treatment and industrial applications. The region’s increasing focus on sustainable solutions and strict environmental regulations contribute to the high adoption rate of membrane technologies in sectors like water & wastewater treatment and food processing.
Europe
Europe has a well-established market for cross-flow membranes, with strong demand from industries like pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, and water treatment. Stringent regulations and the growing need for high-quality water solutions are expected to drive continued growth in this region.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is expected to experience significant growth due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and the increasing demand for clean water. Emerging economies like China and India are driving this demand, particularly in municipal water treatment and industrial filtration applications.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa face challenges in water scarcity, driving the adoption of membrane technologies. The growing investment in desalination projects, along with increasing industrial demand, makes this region a key area for growth.
Latin America
Latin America is experiencing steady demand for cross-flow membranes, especially in water treatment and industrial filtration applications. Increasing urbanization and industrial development are expected to drive the market in this region.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Cross Flow Membrane Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Rising Water Scarcity
- Environmental Regulations
- Growing Industrial Demand
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Wastewater Treatment Needs -The global cross flow membrane market is an integral segment of the water and wastewater treatment industry. Cross flow membranes, known for their efficiency and high-performance characteristics, are utilized extensively in processes such as microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis. These membranes are designed to handle large volumes of liquid and are preferred for their ability to manage high fouling conditions, making them suitable for various industrial and municipal applications. The demand for these membranes is driven by increasing concerns over water scarcity, regulatory pressures, and the need for effective wastewater treatment solutions.
In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the adoption of cross flow membranes due to their advantages in handling complex and contaminated water streams. As industrial activities expand globally, there is a growing need for advanced wastewater treatment technologies to meet environmental regulations and ensure the sustainability of water resources. Cross flow membranes offer improved filtration efficiency and reduced operational costs, which aligns well with the goals of industries seeking to minimize their environmental footprint and optimize resource management.
The wastewater treatment needs are becoming more pressing as urbanization and industrialization continue to accelerate. Municipalities and industries face challenges related to the treatment of wastewater that is increasingly complex due to the presence of contaminants, pharmaceuticals, and other pollutants. Cross flow membranes provide a viable solution by offering superior filtration capabilities, which help in achieving higher quality treated water and meeting stringent discharge standards. This trend is driving the market growth, with investments being channeled into research and development to enhance membrane performance and durability.
The global cross flow membrane market is expected to experience continued growth driven by technological advancements and increasing environmental awareness. The integration of cross flow membranes in water and wastewater treatment systems is anticipated to become more widespread as industries and municipalities strive to address water scarcity issues and comply with stricter environmental regulations. As such, the market is poised for expansion, with opportunities arising from innovations in membrane technology and the growing emphasis on sustainable water management practices.
Restraints:
- High Initial Costs
- Membrane Fouling
- Complex Maintenance
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Market Competition -The global cross-flow membrane market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing demand for water treatment, desalination, and various industrial applications. Cross-flow membranes are critical components in filtration systems where the fluid flows tangentially across the membrane surface, reducing fouling and increasing efficiency. This market is driven by the rising need for clean water and efficient wastewater management, as well as advancements in membrane technology.
The market is characterized by intense competition among key players who are continually innovating to improve membrane performance and reduce costs. Major companies such as Dow Water & Process Solutions, Hydranautics (a Nitto Denko company), and Koch Membrane Systems dominate the market. They compete on factors like membrane durability, flux rates, and fouling resistance. Additionally, emerging players are entering the market with novel technologies and solutions, further intensifying the competition.
Regional dynamics also play a significant role in market competition. North America and Europe are established markets with mature technologies and high demand for advanced water treatment solutions. In contrast, the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth due to industrialization, urbanization, and increasing investments in water infrastructure. Companies are strategically expanding their operations and forming partnerships to tap into these high-growth regions.
The competitive landscape is also influenced by regulatory policies and environmental concerns. Governments worldwide are implementing stringent regulations to ensure water quality and sustainable practices, which impact market dynamics. Companies that can navigate these regulations effectively and offer environmentally friendly solutions are likely to gain a competitive edge. Overall, the global cross-flow membrane market remains vibrant and competitive, driven by technological innovation and increasing demand across various sectors.
Opportunities:
- Innovation in Materials
- Desalination Projects
- Expansion in Healthcare
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Government Incentives -The global cross flow membrane market is witnessing substantial growth, driven by the increasing demand for advanced water and wastewater treatment solutions. Cross flow membranes, which include ultrafiltration (UF), microfiltration (MF), and nanofiltration (NF) technologies, are crucial in various applications ranging from industrial processes to municipal water treatment. Their ability to efficiently separate contaminants from water and other liquids while maintaining high flow rates makes them highly sought after in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and chemical manufacturing.
Government incentives play a pivotal role in fostering the growth of the cross flow membrane market. Many governments around the world are implementing policies and providing financial support to encourage the adoption of water treatment technologies. These incentives often include subsidies for the installation of advanced filtration systems, tax benefits for companies investing in sustainable technologies, and grants for research and development projects aimed at improving membrane technologies. Such measures help reduce the initial capital costs associated with adopting cross flow membrane systems, making them more accessible to a broader range of industries and municipalities.
Governments are also enacting regulations that drive demand for cross flow membranes. For instance, stringent water quality standards and environmental regulations compel industries to invest in advanced water treatment technologies to meet compliance requirements. This regulatory pressure acts as a catalyst for the adoption of cross flow membranes, as they offer effective solutions for achieving the required water purity levels. Moreover, the focus on reducing industrial water pollution and enhancing resource efficiency aligns with the capabilities of cross flow membrane systems, further boosting their market growth.
Overall, the interplay between government incentives and regulatory frameworks is crucial in shaping the global cross flow membrane market. As governments continue to prioritize sustainable water management and environmental protection, the market for cross flow membranes is expected to expand, driven by both financial support and regulatory mandates. This dynamic environment presents opportunities for innovation and growth within the sector, benefiting both technology providers and end-users seeking efficient and reliable water treatment solutions.
Cross Flow Membrane Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Cross Flow Membrane Market competitive landscape highlights the importance of innovation, collaboration, and growth in advancing filtration and separation technologies. Leading manufacturers are adopting strategies that emphasize efficiency, durability, and sustainability. Expanding partnerships with water treatment, pharmaceutical, and food industries underscores the evolving structure and reinforces competitiveness.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market shows moderate concentration, with nearly 55% of share held by established players employing advanced strategies. Competitive positioning is influenced by brand reliability, material science expertise, and targeted collaboration. Rising expansion into municipal water systems, bioprocessing, and industrial wastewater management reflects the balance between multinational suppliers and regional technology providers.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Prominent brands are deploying robust channel strategies through direct sales, distributors, and service contracts. More than 60% of adoption is supported by partnerships with water utilities, food processors, and biopharma companies. Continuous innovation in polymer chemistry, membrane design, and energy efficiency supports growth while expanding market adoption across industries.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Rapid innovation and technological advancements in nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultrafiltration enhance competitiveness. Over 70% of companies engage in R&D collaboration to improve selectivity, reduce fouling, and extend lifecycle performance. These initiatives foster growth while supporting expansion into high-value applications such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and sustainable water reuse.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional participants drive expansion with localized strategies and partnerships with industrial users and utilities, representing nearly 60% of adoption. Strong collaboration with governments and infrastructure projects boosts competitiveness. International leaders adapt innovation to regional water quality standards and industry needs, ensuring resilience across advanced and emerging markets.
Future Outlook
The future outlook emphasizes reliance on adaptive strategies, mergers, and partnerships to secure resilience in filtration technologies. More than 70% of stakeholders anticipate accelerated innovation and technological advancements to enhance sustainability and reduce operational costs. Continued expansion into water reuse, industrial processing, and biotechnology is expected to sustain long-term growth and collaboration.
Key players in Cross Flow Membrane Market include:
- GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft
- DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
- Pall Corporation
- 3M Company
- Toray Industries, Inc.
- Veolia Water Technologies
- Koch Membrane Systems, Inc.
- Merck KGaA
- Pentair plc
- Asahi Kasei Corporation
- SUEZ Water Technologies & Solutions
- Alfa Laval AB
- Microdyn-Nadir GmbH
- Graver Technologies LLC
- Synder Filtration, Inc.
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 Product Type
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Material
- Market Snapshot, By End User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Cross Flow Membrane Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Rising Water Scarcity
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Environmental Regulations
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Growing Industrial Demand
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Wastewater Treatment Needs
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- Restraints
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High Initial Costs
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Membrane Fouling
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Complex Maintenance
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Market Competition
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- Opportunities
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Innovation in Materials
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Desalination Projects
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Expansion in Healthcare
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Government Incentives
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- 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
- Cross Flow Membrane Market, By Product Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Microfiltration
- Ultrafiltration
- Nanofiltration
- Reverse Osmosis
- Cross Flow Membrane Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Water & Wastewater Treatment
- Food & Beverage
- Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology
- Chemical & Petrochemical
- Others
- Cross Flow Membrane Market, By Material, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Polymeric
- Ceramic
- Others
- Cross Flow Membrane Market, By End User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Industrial
- Municipal
- Others
- Cross Flow Membrane 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
- Cross Flow Membrane Market, By Product Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft
- DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
- Pall Corporation
- 3M Company
- Toray Industries, Inc.
- Veolia Water Technologies
- Koch Membrane Systems, Inc.
- Merck KGaA
- Pentair plc
- Asahi Kasei Corporation
- SUEZ Water Technologies & Solutions
- Alfa Laval AB
- Microdyn-Nadir GmbH
- Graver Technologies LLC
- Synder Filtration, Inc.
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

