Glycidol Market
By Assay;
Glycidol 96%-96.9%, Glycidol 97%-97.9% and OthersBy Application;
Epoxies, Chemical Intermediate, Pharmaceutical Intermediate, Sanitary Chemicals, Paints & Finishes, Adhesives, Plastics, Elastomers, Varnishes, Fabric Dyes & Detergents, Synthesis of Glycerol, Esters & Amines and OthersBy End Use Industry;
Pharmaceutical, Paints & Coatings, Building & Construction, Automotive, Packaging, Cosmetics & Personal Care, Textile and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Glycidol Market Overview
Glycidol Market (USD Million)
Glycidol Market was valued at USD 2,290.69 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 3,354.39 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.6%.
Glycidol Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 5.6 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 5.6 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 2,290.69 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 3,354.39 Million |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
| Report Pages | 386 |
Major Players
- BASF SE
- The Dow Chemical Company
- Huntsman Corporation
- SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corporation)
- LG Chem
- Evonik Industries AG
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- Solvay S.A.
- Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Nouryon
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Glycidol Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Glycidol Market is witnessing steady growth, fueled by its critical role in chemical synthesis and advanced material development. Nearly 30% of demand originates from pharmaceuticals, polymers, and surfactants, where its high reactivity and solubility make it a valuable intermediate. Its versatility across industrial and consumer applications highlights its expanding market presence.
Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Applications
In the healthcare sector, glycidol accounts for around 25% of consumption, primarily in drug formulations and biomedical research. Acting as a precursor to active pharmaceutical ingredients, it supports the production of effective and innovative medicines. Rising global demand for advanced therapies continues to drive its adoption.
Polymer and Resin Development
Approximately 28% of the market is driven by its use in polymer resins, adhesives, and coatings. With excellent chemical stability and strong binding properties, glycidol enhances product performance in industrial manufacturing. Increasing demand for high-performance materials across multiple industries strengthens its relevance.
Cosmetics and Surfactants Integration
The cosmetics and personal care segment represents about 15% of demand, where glycidol is essential for producing non-ionic surfactants. These surfactants improve cleansing, emulsification, and foaming in skincare and haircare products. Growing consumer preference for innovative personal care solutions continues to boost its significance.
Glycidol Market Key Takeaways
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Rising demand from pharmaceutical and chemical industries—glycidol is widely used in the synthesis of surfactants, resins, and pharmaceuticals, driving global market growth.
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Technological advancements improve production efficiency—innovations in synthesis methods, catalysts, and purification techniques enhance yield and reduce production costs.
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Integration into specialty chemicals and coatings applications—glycidol’s versatility in epoxy resins, polyols, and elastomers expands its industrial applications.
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Environmental and safety regulations shape market dynamics&mdash>compliance with chemical handling, storage, and emission standards is critical for production and distribution.
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Emerging economies offer significant growth opportunities&mdash>industrial expansion and chemical manufacturing activities in Asia-Pacific and Latin America drive regional demand.
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Strategic collaborations enhance market presence&mdash>alliances between chemical manufacturers, distributors, and end-user industries strengthen supply chains and innovation.
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Price volatility and raw material availability influence competitiveness&mdash>fluctuating feedstock costs and supply chain constraints impact production economics and market adoption.
Glycidol Market Recent Developments
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In May 2021, the pharmaceutical intermediate application of glycidol held a significant share in the market, driven by increasing demand from the global pharmaceutical sector. Novartis’ Sandoz announced an investment of approximately EUR 150 million to develop new antibiotic manufacturing facilities in Austria and Spain over the next three to five years, emphasizing the growing focus on enhancing pharmaceutical production capabilities.
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In December 2021, the pharmaceutical industry emerged as the largest segment in the global glycidol market, driven by the growing demand for medical drug production and the expansion of healthcare infrastructure worldwide. According to the Institute for Healthcare Informatics, global medicine consumption reached about 4.5 trillion doses in 2020, with an estimated total expenditure of nearly 1.4 trillion, highlighting the industry’s robust growth momentum.
Glycidol Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Glycidol Market has been segmented by Assay, Application, End Use Industry and Geography.
Glycidol Market, Segmentation by Assay
The Assay segmentation reflects how purity levels influence pricing, regulatory acceptance, and end-use performance. Higher-assay glycidol tends to be specified in applications where reaction selectivity and low impurity thresholds are critical, while mid-range assays support cost-sensitive uses across coatings and intermediates. Suppliers differentiate through quality control, batch consistency, and supply reliability, shaping procurement strategies for formulators and custom manufacturers.
Glycidol 96%-96.9%This assay range addresses balanced needs of cost and functional performance for large-volume uses such as resins, adhesives, and polymer modifiers. Buyers prioritize stable supply and spec conformance over ultra-high purity, enabling competitive positioning in regional markets. Growth is supported by industrial coatings and intermediate synthesis where moderate impurity profiles are acceptable within process windows.
Glycidol 97%-97.9%Mid-to-high assay grades are favored where tight reaction control and reduced by-products improve yields in downstream chemistries. Producers leverage refinement technologies and analytical certifications to meet stricter buyer audits, particularly among pharmaceutical and specialty chemical accounts. This segment competes on purity documentation, lot traceability, and application support to reduce qualification timelines.
OthersThe Others category encompasses grades outside the listed ranges, including custom specifications for niche syntheses or pilot-scale programs. Demand arises from R&D projects, bespoke catalysts, or specialized materials science use-cases. Suppliers winning here typically offer flexible manufacturing, small-lot packaging, and technical collaboration to speed up iteration cycles.
Glycidol Market, Segmentation by Application
Across Applications, glycidol functions as a reactive epoxide and intermediate feeding diverse value chains from coatings to life-science syntheses. Adoption depends on performance gains in adhesion, crosslinking, and surface properties, as well as EHS compliance and process efficiency. Partnerships between producers and formulators enable new grades and formulation know-how, while expansions focus on proximity to coatings, packaging, and pharma hubs.
EpoxiesGlycidol enhances epoxy resin systems by introducing functional groups that improve adhesion, chemical resistance, and cure behavior. It supports tailored crosslink density and compatibility with tougheners and reactive diluents, enabling high-performance coatings and composites. Demand correlates with infrastructure spending and industrial maintenance activity.
Chemical IntermediateAs a versatile intermediate, glycidol participates in the synthesis of surfactants, plasticizers, and fine chemicals. Customers value consistent assay and low moisture for predictable reaction pathways. Growth is reinforced by downstream specialty expansions and custom manufacturing contracts across regions.
Pharmaceutical IntermediateIn pharmaceutical intermediate pathways, strict quality management, impurity profiling, and documentation drive supplier selection. Producers emphasize GMP-aligned practices, change controls, and audit readiness to streamline tech transfers. Applications center on advanced building blocks where epoxide reactivity is advantageous.
Sanitary ChemicalsFormulators incorporate glycidol functionality to enhance antimicrobial delivery matrices, film formation, and durability in sanitary products. Market dynamics reflect public hygiene initiatives and institutional cleaning trends, with specifiers prioritizing regulatory compliance and worker safety. Supply reliability and cost-in-use remain key purchasing criteria.
Paints & FinishesWithin paints & finishes, glycidol-modified systems target hardness, solvent resistance, and weatherability improvements. Integration with low-VOC and high-solids strategies supports sustainability goals. Demand follows construction cycles and recoating intervals in protective, marine, and architectural segments.
AdhesivesReactive epoxide functionality promotes substrate bonding, thermal stability, and chemical adhesion across industrial adhesives. Converters seek controlled viscosity and storage stability, alongside compatibility with curing agents and fillers. Growth aligns with light-weighting and assembly automation in diversified manufacturing.
PlasticsIn plastics, glycidol derivatives act as chain modifiers and compatibilizers to tune mechanical properties and processability. Opportunities emerge in engineering polymers and blends requiring improved interfacial adhesion. Producers collaborate with compounders to validate additive packages and processing windows.
ElastomersElastomer applications leverage glycidol for crosslink control and surface functionality, supporting enhanced fatigue resistance and adhesion. Demand is tied to transportation, sealants, and industrial goods, where reliability and life-cycle performance are emphasized. Supply partners offer technical service for compound optimization.
VarnishesVarnish formulations use glycidol to balance gloss retention, hardness development, and chemical durability. End users in wood finishes and industrial lines seek improved cure profiles and scratch resistance. Adoption benefits from process consistency and compatibility with existing resin systems.
Fabric Dyes & DetergentsIn fabric dyes & detergents, glycidol-based intermediates contribute to dye fixation, wetting, and soil release performance. Market needs revolve around wash efficiency at lower temperatures and formulation stability. Suppliers emphasize sustainability narratives and effluent management support.
Synthesis of Glycerol, Esters & AminesGlycidol participates in producing glycerol derivatives, esters, and amines, where reaction selectivity and catalyst compatibility are crucial. Customers focus on yield optimization and downstream purification to manage costs. Integrated producers leverage backward/forward linkages to stabilize margins across cycles.
OthersThe Others segment covers emerging and specialized uses, including functional coatings, advanced composites, and pilot chemistries. Activity is driven by co-development projects and application trials that validate performance at scale. Success depends on technical service, sample availability, and rapid qualification.
Glycidol Market, Segmentation by End Use Industry
End-use adoption is shaped by sector-specific performance criteria, regulatory frameworks, and capital spending. Verticals like pharmaceuticals and coatings require stringent documentation and consistent quality, while automotive and construction emphasize durability and throughput. Suppliers grow share through application labs, localized logistics, and strategic accounts that standardize specifications across regions.
PharmaceuticalPharma buyers prioritize purity, traceability, and regulatory alignment for intermediates and building blocks. Collaborative process development and change control reduce scale-up risk. This segment values audit-ready documentation and contingency supply to ensure continuity.
Paints & CoatingsCoatings manufacturers deploy glycidol-enabled chemistries to improve adhesion, corrosion resistance, and film integrity. Demand tracks infrastructure upgrades and OEM production, with formulators targeting low-VOC and high-solids technologies. Partnerships with resin suppliers accelerate new product introductions.
Building & ConstructionThe construction ecosystem seeks durable finishes, sealants, and protective membranes that withstand environmental stress. Glycidol contributes to crosslinking and surface performance, supporting extended service life. Project pipelines and public spending shape regional demand profiles.
AutomotiveAutomotive applications emphasize structural bonding, NVH mitigation, and light-weighting. Glycidol-modified resins and adhesives aid assembly efficiency and durability. Tiered suppliers look for spec standardization and process compatibility to speed platform adoption.
PackagingIn packaging, the focus is on barrier performance, printability, and seal strength, with glycidol derivatives improving adhesion and coating uniformity. Brand owners and converters value regulatory clarity and migration control. Growth aligns with food & personal care volumes and e-commerce formats.
Cosmetics & Personal CarePersonal care formulators seek texture control, film formation, and stability in active delivery. Suppliers stress documentation and quality attributes that align with global registrations. Co-creation with brands enables faster innovation cycles and targeted performance claims.
TextileTextile uses leverage glycidol chemistry for finish durability, dye fixation, and surface modification. Mills require consistent batches and line compatibility to maintain throughput. Regional competitiveness depends on energy costs and export demand in apparel and home textiles.
OthersThe Others category spans specialized manufacturing, electronics materials, and R&D pilots where bespoke performance is required. Vendors differentiate with custom packaging, application testing, and short lead times. Pipeline visibility with innovators helps anticipate scale-up needs.
Glycidol Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Glycidol 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 American demand is supported by specialty coatings, advanced materials, and pharma intermediates, with buyers emphasizing regulatory compliance and supplier qualifications. Regional players invest in quality systems and application support to secure long-term contracts. Supply strategies focus on near-shoring and inventory resilience for critical accounts.
EuropeEurope features stringent EHS frameworks and a strong base of specialty chemicals and coatings formulators. Producers differentiate via documentation rigor, process safety, and sustainability programs. Demand profiles benefit from infrastructure renovation and industrial maintenance cycles across key economies.
Asia PacificAsia Pacific leads with expanding manufacturing ecosystems, packaging, and textiles, alongside a dynamic pharma supply chain. Investments in capacity additions and cost-competitive production underpin market accessibility. Buyers prioritize scalability, short lead times, and technical collaboration to serve regional export markets.
Middle East & AfricaIn the Middle East & Africa, demand aligns with industrial diversification, infrastructure projects, and growing packaging requirements. Import-oriented supply chains value reliable logistics and spec consistency. Opportunities arise via local partnerships and distribution networks that can service multiple niche applications.
Latin AmericaLatin America’s outlook reflects construction recovery, automotive components, and consumer goods manufacturing. Buyers look for cost-effective grades with dependable quality and technical service. Regional distributors that provide application guidance and inventory management are positioned to capture incremental share.
Glycidol Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Glycidol Market. These factors include; Market
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 Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers
- Rising demand in cosmetics
- Growth in pharmaceuticals industry
- Increased industrial applications
- Technological advancements in production
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Expanding end-user industries: The global glycidol market is witnessing significant expansion due to its versatile applications across various end-user industries. Glycidol, a key intermediate in the chemical industry, is used in the production of epoxy resins, which are crucial in coatings, adhesives, and composites. This demand is driven by the growing construction and automotive sectors, where epoxy resins are valued for their durability and resistance. Additionally, glycidol's role in producing surfactants and as a reagent in pharmaceutical manufacturing further broadens its market reach.
The increasing focus on advanced materials and green chemistry is also contributing to market growth. In the healthcare sector, glycidol-based compounds are used in drug delivery systems and medical devices, addressing the rising demand for innovative medical solutions. Moreover, the trend towards sustainable and environmentally friendly products is spurring interest in glycidol’s use in green chemistry applications. As industries continue to evolve, the global glycidol market is poised for steady growth, driven by diverse applications and technological advancements.
Restraints
- High production costs
- Regulatory compliance challenges
- Limited raw material availability
- Environmental impact concerns
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Market competition: The global glycidol market is characterized by significant competition among key players who are vying for dominance in this niche segment. Major companies in the market are focusing on expanding their production capacities, enhancing their product portfolios, and forming strategic partnerships to gain a competitive edge. Innovations in production techniques and the development of advanced glycidol derivatives are driving competition, as companies aim to meet the diverse needs of end-users in industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and chemicals.
In addition to established players, new entrants are also capitalizing on the growing demand for glycidol in various applications. The competitive landscape is further influenced by regional dynamics, with companies tailoring their strategies to leverage opportunities in emerging markets. Factors such as regulatory compliance, cost efficiency, and technological advancements play a crucial role in shaping the competitive environment of the global glycidol market.
Opportunities
- Emerging markets expansion
- Innovation in product applications
- Strategic partnerships and alliances
- Increased focus on sustainability
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Growth in specialty chemicals: The global glycidol market is experiencing notable growth, driven by its applications across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and polymers. Glycidol, a versatile chemical compound used as an intermediate in the synthesis of specialty chemicals and pharmaceuticals, is witnessing increased demand due to its role in producing epoxy resins, which are crucial for a wide range of industrial applications. The growing emphasis on high-performance materials and the expansion of end-user industries, such as automotive and construction, are further fueling the demand for glycidol. Additionally, the rising focus on developing environmentally friendly and sustainable products is pushing companies to explore more applications for glycidol.
Geographically, the market is seeing substantial growth in regions with strong manufacturing bases and industrial activities, such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The Asia-Pacific region, in particular, is emerging as a significant market for glycidol, owing to rapid industrialization, increased production capabilities, and rising consumer demand for specialty chemicals. The ongoing advancements in chemical processing technologies and regulatory frameworks supporting green chemistry are expected to further enhance the market growth. As industries continue to seek high-quality and efficient chemical solutions, the glycidol market is poised for sustained expansion.
Glycidol Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Glycidol Market is shaped by intense competition where major producers emphasize strategies involving merger, collaboration, and partnerships to capture higher shares. Around 65% of the market is influenced by a handful of players focusing on innovation to strengthen product applications. This competitive environment drives continuous growth and consolidation across end-use industries.
Market Structure and Concentration
The glycidol market is moderately concentrated, with the top producers accounting for over 55% of supply. The presence of multiple small-scale firms enhances regional competitiveness, yet dominant companies use strategies to retain position. Market consolidation trends reflect strong emphasis on partnerships and specialized product development that supports sustained expansion in niche applications.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Leading players implement diverse brand and channel strategies to expand their visibility. About 60% of distribution is managed through long-term partnerships with industrial buyers, while direct channels hold steady importance. Marketing strategies increasingly focus on product differentiation and technical support, strengthening brand loyalty and enabling significant growth within specialty chemicals.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Innovation drives nearly 70% of competitive advantage, as producers invest in technological advancements to refine manufacturing processes. Continuous innovation in eco-friendly production improves cost-efficiency and environmental performance. Companies adopt collaborative research strategies and pilot-scale projects, positioning themselves as leaders in sustainable growth. This shift creates higher demand for upgraded glycidol applications across diverse sectors.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional players contribute to over 50% of overall expansion, with strong growth observed in Asia-Pacific and Europe. Local producers align with partnerships and collaboration to meet rising industrial demand. Regional strategies emphasize scaling operations and improving supply chain efficiency. This momentum reflects a growing preference for integrated sourcing, reinforcing the glycidol market structure.
Future Outlook
The future outlook highlights steady growth as sustainability and innovation become central competitive levers. Over 65% of stakeholders anticipate increased adoption of eco-compliant processes. Companies plan expansion through joint ventures and international partnerships to secure long-term competitiveness. These strategies signal a market evolving toward higher technological integration and diversified applications in the coming years.
Key players in Glycidol Market include:
- FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation
- HBCChem, Inc.
- Meryer (Shanghai) Chemical Technology
- Acros Organics
- Kanto Chemical Co., Inc.
- Hangzhou Dayangchem
- Nacalai Tesque, Inc.
- LGC Group
- Atomaxchem
- FINETECH Industry Limited
- The Good Scents Company
- MilliporeSigma
- Biosynth
- Simagchem Corporation
- Blue Bear Chemicals
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 Assay
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By End Use Industry
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Glycidol Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Rising demand in cosmetics
- Growth in pharmaceuticals industry
- Increased industrial applications
- Technological advancements in production
- Expanding end-user industries
- Restraints
- High production costs
- Regulatory compliance challenges
- Limited raw material availability
- Environmental impact concerns
- Market competition
- Opportunities
- Emerging markets expansion
- Innovation in product applications
- Strategic partnerships and alliances
- Increased focus on sustainability
- Growth in specialty chemicals
- 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
- Glycidol Market, By Assay, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Glycidol 96%-96.9%
- Glycidol 97%-97.9%
- Others
- Glycidol Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Epoxies
- Chemical Intermediate
- Pharmaceutical Intermediate
- Sanitary Chemicals
- Paints & Finishes
- Adhesives
- Plastics
- Elastomers
- Varnishes
- Fabric Dyes & Detergents
- Synthesis of Glycerol
- Esters & Amines
- Others
- Glycidol Market, By End Use Industry, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Pharmaceutical
- Paints & Coatings
- Building & Construction
- Automotive
- Packaging
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Textile
- Others
- Glycidol 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
- Glycidol Market, By Assay, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation
- HBCChem, Inc.
- Meryer (Shanghai) Chemical Technology
- Acros Organics
- Kanto Chemical Co., Inc.
- Hangzhou Dayangchem
- Nacalai Tesque, Inc.
- LGC Group
- Atomaxchem
- FINETECH Industry Limited
- The Good Scents Company
- MilliporeSigma
- Biosynth
- Simagchem Corporation
- Blue Bear Chemicals
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

