Propylene Carbonate Market
By Application;
Solvent, Catalyst, Electrolyte, Additives, Cleaners and OthersBy End-Use Industry;
Cosmetics & Personal Care, Paints & Coatings, Pharmaceuticals, Textile, Energy & Power, Mining and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Propylene Carbonate Market Overview
Propylene Carbonate Market (USD Million)
Propylene Carbonate Market was valued at USD 434.22 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 644.34 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.8%.
Propylene Carbonate Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 5.8 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 5.8 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 434.22 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 644.34 Million |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
| Report Pages | 336 |
Major Players
- BASF SE
- Huntsman International LLC.
- LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V.
- Empower Materials
- Anmol Chemicals Group
- Kowa India Pvt.Ltd.
- ReactChem Co. Ltd.
- Shenghua Group Holdings Co. Ltd.
- Taixing Fengming Chemical
- Lixing Chemical
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Propylene Carbonate Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
Propylene Carbonate Market is witnessing steady expansion due to its wide application in batteries, paints, coatings, cosmetics, and cleaning agents. Nearly 35% of the demand stems from the electronics sector, where it is used as a solvent in lithium-ion batteries. Its role in supporting energy storage systems is becoming increasingly critical as the global push for sustainable energy solutions accelerates.
Rising Role in Sustainable Energy
With the transition toward clean technologies, the use of propylene carbonate in lithium-ion batteries has surged. Close to 40% of renewable energy storage systems now depend on such batteries, fueling higher consumption. Its biodegradability and lower toxicity compared to alternatives make it an environmentally preferred choice, aligning well with global sustainability goals.
Expansion in Paints and Coatings
In the paints and coatings sector, propylene carbonate accounts for nearly 25% of solvent use. Its excellent solvency, low evaporation rate, and ability to improve viscosity control make it a favored option. Industries are increasingly adopting it for formulations that require eco-friendly and high-performance solvents, further reinforcing its market demand.
Cosmetics and Personal Care Growth
The cosmetics industry contributes almost 15% of the market demand, as propylene carbonate is utilized in creams, lotions, and make-up products. Its properties as a stabilizer and solvent enhance the consistency of formulations, making it valuable in product development. With the rising consumer shift toward natural and safe ingredients, its usage in personal care products continues to expand.
Propylene Carbonate Market Key Takeaways
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The strong uptake of Propylene Carbonate in lithium-ion battery electrolytes is positioning it as a strategic material in the expanding EV and energy-storage supply chain.
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Its role as a high-performance solvent, with low volatility and biodegradability, is increasingly leveraged in paints, coatings, and cleaning formulations as industries pivot to greener chemistry.
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Asia Pacific has emerged as a dominant region accounting for roughly one-third or more of global demand driven by rapid industrialisation, electronics manufacturing, and battery production growth.
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The preference for the aqueous/aqueous-solvent form of the compound is substantial over two-thirds in many estimations reflecting regulatory pressure and formulators’ desire for low-VOC systems.
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Despite its growth tailwinds, the market faces pressure from raw-material price volatility (e.g., propylene oxide feedstock) and increasing competition from alternative solvents, which may affect margins.
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The paints & coatings/solvent application segment remains a major revenue pool approaching or exceeding one-third of demand as OEMs and formulators seek performance and sustainability.
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Investment in purification and high-purity (>99 %) grades is gaining importance, especially for electronics and battery applications, underscoring a shift toward specialty-grade positioning.
Propylene Carbonate Market Recent Developments
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In March 2024, propylene carbonate market experienced significant growth, fueled by rising demand from the electronics industry, especially for use in the production of lithium-ion batteries and various solvent applications. This trend underscores the expanding role of propylene carbonate in supporting energy storage and advanced manufacturing technologies.
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In September 2022, propylene carbonate market expanded as the compound gained traction in the cosmetics sector, where it serves as a solvent in a variety of personal care formulations. This growth was driven by the industry’s increasing shift toward eco-friendly and sustainable ingredients in beauty and skincare products.
Propylene Carbonate Market Segment Analysis
In this report, Propylene Carbonate Market has been segmented by Application, End-Use Industry and Geography.
Propylene Carbonate Market, Segmentation by Application
The Application segmentation highlights how diverse usage patterns shape demand for propylene carbonate across downstream value chains. Market participants prioritize performance attributes such as polarity, high dielectric constant, and low volatility to unlock opportunities in solvent systems, electrolytes, and catalytic environments. Strategic moves focus on product optimization for safety and efficiency, deepening partnerships with formulators and OEMs, and expanding distribution where regulatory and sustainability preferences favor low-VOC and eco-aligned chemistries, strengthening long-term growth visibility.
Solvent
Solvent-grade propylene carbonate is valued for its high solvency power, compatibility with polymers and resins, and low vapor pressure, enabling advanced formulations in coatings, adhesives, inks, and specialty cleaners. Vendors emphasize formulation support to balance drying time, film formation, and odor profile, while communicating regulatory compliance and sustainability credentials. Growth strategies target co-development with customers to replace harsher solvents, as well as localization of supply to improve cost-to-serve and resilience.
Catalyst
As a reaction medium or co-solvent in catalytic processes, propylene carbonate provides polarity and thermal stability that can improve reaction kinetics and selectivity. Producers collaborate with process developers to optimize throughput, minimize side reactions, and reduce waste, aligning with green chemistry goals. The focus is on application engineering, pilot trials, and technical service that accelerate customer validation and scale-up across specialty chemical syntheses.
Electrolyte
Electrolyte use leverages propylene carbonate’s high dielectric constant and electrochemical stability, making it an important component in batteries, capacitors, and related energy storage devices. Market players invest in purity control, moisture management, and additive packages to improve low-temperature performance and cycle life. Partnerships with cell manufacturers and research consortia support iterative improvement, while capacity planning and quality assurance frameworks aim to secure supply for electrification trends.
Additives
As an additive, propylene carbonate enhances flow, wetting, plasticization, and viscosity reduction in formulations spanning coatings, sealants, and elastomers. Suppliers differentiate through grade variety and consistent rheological profiles, enabling formulators to fine-tune performance without compromising regulatory targets. Commercial strategies emphasize application notes, data packages, and co-marketing with resin producers to speed specification and adoption.
Cleaners
Cleaner applications benefit from propylene carbonate’s low odor, low volatility, and excellent degreasing capability, supporting professional and consumer products alike. Vendors position the material within low-VOC and safer-chemistry narratives, partnering with contract manufacturers and private labels to scale reach. Portfolio breadth, packaging formats, and regulatory documentation support tender wins and multi-region expansion.
Others
This category spans niche and emerging uses, including specialty polymer processing, electronics, and agrochemical systems, where specific solvation and stability properties are critical. Companies track pilot opportunities and invest in technical engagement to validate novel use-cases, while flexible supply chain models enable small-lot fulfillment that can mature into larger recurring demand. Ongoing innovation and customer education remain central to unlocking incremental growth.
Propylene Carbonate Market, Segmentation by End-Use Industry
The End-Use Industry view clarifies where demand consolidates and how procurement preferences influence specifications and qualification cycles. Suppliers align portfolios to industry standards, certifications, and ESG priorities, tailoring grades and documentation for regulated domains such as pharmaceuticals and personal care. Expansion strategies emphasize solution selling, technical service, and regional application labs that accelerate approvals and long-term supplier partnerships.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
In beauty and personal care, propylene carbonate functions as a solvent and viscosity modifier aiding pigment wetting and stable emulsions in color cosmetics, skincare, and hair products. Producers stress high-purity grades, allergen profiles, and compliance with global regulations, supporting multinational launches. Co-creation with brands and contract manufacturers underpins speed-to-market and differentiated sensory performance.
Paints & Coatings
Coatings applications leverage propylene carbonate for film formation, improved flow and leveling, and compatibility with resin systems in industrial, architectural, and specialty finishes. Vendors help balance VOC objectives with application productivity, offering data for spray, dip, and roll processes. Growth is supported by retrofit reformulation away from harsher solvents and by close collaboration with distributors targeting regional applicator networks.
Pharmaceuticals
Pharma customers require documented quality systems, traceable supply, and controlled impurity profiles, where propylene carbonate can serve as a solvent/excipient in select formulations. Suppliers invest in GMP-aligned practices, change-control transparency, and robust regulatory support to meet stringent review processes. Long qualification cycles favor incumbents that pair reliability with responsive technical assistance across development and scale.
Textile
Textile processes utilize propylene carbonate in dyeing and finishing steps where solvation and wetting behavior drive shade consistency and processing efficiency. Providers position performance alongside resource efficiency helping reduce rework and wastewater while supporting mills with application guidance. Collaboration with auxiliary chemical suppliers and OEMs enables turnkey packages that facilitate mill trials and adoption.
Energy & Power
Energy and power applications including battery electrolytes and capacitor systems favor propylene carbonate for its dielectric properties and stability. Market development hinges on deep ties with cell designers, rigorous analytics, and moisture control practices. Suppliers scale high-purity capacity, pursue joint development programs, and align with electrification roadmaps to capture long-term demand.
Mining
In mining, propylene carbonate can aid extraction and separation steps where specific solvency and process safety are critical. Vendors focus on compatibility with existing circuits, cost-in-use advantages, and reliable bulk supply into remote locations. Field trials, safety training, and service level agreements underpin sustained uptake across diverse ore bodies and operating conditions.
Others
The “Others” category aggregates specialized industries such as electronics, agrochemicals, and niche industrial processing where tailored performance envelopes are required. Suppliers emphasize agile application development, small-batch availability, and documentation to speed qualification. As novel processes scale, these footholds can evolve into repeat business and geographically diversified revenues.
Propylene Carbonate Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, Propylene Carbonate 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 American demand reflects advanced formulation ecosystems in coatings, personal care, and energy storage, supported by stringent quality standards and robust distribution. Producers emphasize security of supply, local technical service, and alignment with VOC regulations to win specifications. Collaboration with battery and specialty chemical clusters, alongside near-shoring trends, underpins resilient growth and diversification.
Europe
Europe’s market is influenced by regulatory leadership and sustainability frameworks that favor safer-chemistry solvent systems and transparent supply chains. Suppliers focus on compliance documentation, eco-profiling, and circularity narratives, supporting adoption in coatings, pharma, and high-end consumer applications. Partnerships with research institutes and brand owners enhance innovation throughput and cross-border scalability.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific benefits from expanding manufacturing bases, dynamic electronics and energy storage value chains, and competitive cost structures. Vendors prioritize capacity scaling, multi-grade portfolios, and localized application labs to accelerate qualification across diverse markets. Long-term growth is supported by industrial policy tailwinds and infrastructure investment, encouraging wider penetration in solvents, electrolytes, and additives.
Middle East & Africa
In Middle East & Africa, demand is shaped by industrial diversification, downstream chemicals initiatives, and growing mining and infrastructure projects. Suppliers position on reliability, bulk logistics, and training to ensure safe handling and optimal performance in challenging climates. Strategic partnerships with regional distributors and investment in customer support reinforce market access and sustainable expansion.
Latin America
Latin America’s opportunity set spans coatings, personal care, and selective mining and energy applications, where supply consistency and technical enablement are crucial. Firms strengthen channel partnerships, inventory hubs, and regulatory readiness to smooth import processes and shorten lead times. As industrial clusters mature, specification wins can translate into repeat demand and broader regional reach.
Propylene Carbonate Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Propylene Carbonate 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:
- Increasing Demand in Lithium-Ion Batteries
- Growth in Personal Care and Cosmetics Industry
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Regulatory Shifts towards Eco-friendly Formulations: The propylene carbonate market is benefiting from a notable shift towards eco-friendly formulations driven by stringent regulatory measures and heightened consumer consciousness regarding environmental sustainability. Regulatory agencies worldwide are increasingly enforcing standards that prioritize reduced toxicity and biodegradability in industrial products. Propylene carbonate, recognized for its low environmental impact and biodegradability characteristics, emerges as a preferred choice in sectors undergoing transitions towards greener alternatives. This includes applications in paints and coatings, where manufacturers seek alternatives that comply with stringent emissions regulations and environmental standards.
Industries involved in adhesives are also turning to propylene carbonate due to its favorable environmental profile. As regulations tighten on volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, propylene carbonate offers a solvent option that meets regulatory requirements while maintaining performance levels. Additionally, the agricultural chemicals sector is exploring propylene carbonate for its formulation benefits in pesticides and herbicides, aligning with sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize environmental safety and efficacy.
Opportunities abound as industries adopt propylene carbonate to meet evolving regulatory demands and consumer preferences for eco-friendly solutions. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to innovate sustainable production processes and enhance the application versatility of propylene carbonate across various sectors. This proactive approach not only supports compliance with regulatory frameworks but also positions companies favorably in markets increasingly influenced by environmental considerations. As global awareness of sustainability grows, propylene carbonate stands poised to play a pivotal role in driving the adoption of eco-friendly formulations across diverse industrial applications.
Restraints:
- Price Volatility of Raw Materials
- Health and Safety Concerns
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Competition from Substitutes: Propylene carbonate encounters significant competition from a range of substitute solvents and chemicals that deliver comparable functionalities across various applications. Ethylene carbonate and glycol ethers are prominent alternatives known for their cost-effectiveness and versatility, posing a challenge to propylene carbonate's market dominance in specific industries. Ethylene carbonate, for instance, shares similarities with propylene carbonate in its use as a solvent and electrolyte in battery applications, including lithium-ion batteries. Its ability to perform similar functions at potentially lower costs makes it a preferred choice in sectors where cost-efficiency is paramount.
Glycol ethers compete directly with propylene carbonate in industries requiring effective solvents with low volatility and high solvency power. Glycol ethers are widely utilized in paints, coatings, and cleaning products due to their excellent compatibility with various resins and polymers, offering manufacturers a flexible alternative to propylene carbonate. This competition underscores the importance for propylene carbonate manufacturers to differentiate their product through enhanced performance attributes, tailored formulations, and strategic pricing strategies.
To mitigate the impact of competitive substitutes, propylene carbonate manufacturers are focusing on technological advancements and product innovation. This includes developing formulations that offer superior performance characteristics such as improved solvency, stability, and environmental compatibility compared to alternatives. Additionally, maintaining robust supply chains and fostering partnerships with end-users to understand specific application requirements are crucial strategies. By continuously refining their offerings and adapting to evolving market dynamics, propylene carbonate producers can sustain market relevance and strengthen their competitive position amidst competition from ethylene carbonate, glycol ethers, and other substitutes in the solvent market.
Opportunities:
- Technological Innovations in Manufacturing Processes
- Expansion in Emerging Markets
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Focus on Renewable Energy Storage Solutions: The propylene carbonate market is poised to benefit from the worldwide transition towards renewable energy sources and the increasing demand for energy storage solutions. As global efforts intensify to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable energy practices, propylene carbonate plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance and longevity of lithium-ion batteries, which are integral to renewable energy storage systems. Its use as a solvent and electrolyte additive in batteries helps improve efficiency, stability, and safety, thereby supporting the reliability and scalability of renewable energy technologies.
Manufacturers of propylene carbonate have a strategic opportunity to leverage this trend by focusing on the development of specialized formulations tailored for energy storage applications. By optimizing chemical compositions and enhancing compatibility with battery materials, they can meet the stringent requirements of modern energy storage systems. Collaborations and partnerships with renewable energy companies and battery manufacturers are pivotal in this endeavor, facilitating joint research and development initiatives aimed at advancing battery technology and expanding market reach.
The shift towards renewable energy storage solutions not only drives demand for propylene carbonate in lithium-ion batteries but also opens avenues for innovation in sustainable production practices. Manufacturers are increasingly exploring bio-based sources and eco-friendly manufacturing processes to align with environmental regulations and consumer preferences for greener products. This proactive approach not only enhances the environmental profile of propylene carbonate but also strengthens market positioning in an evolving landscape focused on sustainable energy solutions. By investing in research, innovation, and strategic partnerships, propylene carbonate manufacturers can capitalize on the growing market opportunities driven by renewable energy storage solutions globally.
Propylene Carbonate Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Propylene Carbonate Market is witnessing significant growth driven by strategic collaboration and key partnerships among leading players. Companies are actively pursuing merger activities and expanding production capacities, resulting in a market where innovation accounts for more than 35% of the competitive advantage.
Market Structure and Concentration
propylene carbonate market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with top players controlling approximately 60% of the total market share. Brand recognition and strong channel strategies play a pivotal role in defining competitive positioning, while smaller firms focus on niche innovation and regional expansion to increase their presence.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Leading companies employ multifaceted strategies involving direct partnerships, exclusive distribution agreements, and multi-channel sales networks. Over 40% of the market relies on strategic branding initiatives and effective collaboration with suppliers, enabling faster penetration and stronger customer engagement across industrial and chemical sectors.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Technological advancements are central to the market growth, with over 30% of revenue stemming from innovative production processes and eco-friendly formulations. Companies are investing heavily in R&D, forming partnerships to enhance product quality and performance, and focusing on innovation that improves efficiency and sustainability.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
The regional expansion trend is accelerating, with certain regions accounting for more than 45% of total consumption. Market leaders are implementing localized strategies and forging collaboration agreements to strengthen supply chains, enhance distribution networks.
Future Outlook
The Propylene Carbonate Market is projected to witness sustained growth as companies continue strategic partnerships, embrace technological advancements, and drive innovation in production and application. Over 50% of competitive advantage will stem from advanced strategies and ongoing regional expansion efforts, ensuring a robust future outlook.
Key players in Propylene Carbonate Market include:
- BASF SE
- Huntsman Corporation
- LyondellBasell Industries
- Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.
- Shandong Feiyang Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Qingdao Aspirit Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Shandong Shida Shenghua Chemical Group
- Shandong Longze Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Shandong Depu Chemical Industry Science and Technology Co., Ltd.
- Shandong Wells Chemicals Co., Ltd.
- Carl Roth
- Eastman Chemical Company
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- INEOS Group
- Safic-Alcan
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 Application
- Market Snapshot, By End-Use Industry
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Propylene Carbonate Market Forces
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers:
- Increasing Demand in Lithium-Ion Batteries
- Growth in Personal Care and Cosmetics Industry
- Regulatory Shifts towards Eco-friendly Formulations
- Restraints:
- Price Volatility of Raw Materials
- Health and Safety Concerns
- Competition from Substitutes
- Opportunities:
- Technological Innovations in Manufacturing Processes
- Expansion in Emerging Markets
- Focus on Renewable Energy Storage Solutions
- 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
- Propylene Carbonate Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Solvent
- Catalyst
- Electrolyte
- Additives
- Cleaners
- Others
- Propylene Carbonate Market, By End-Use Industry, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Paints & Coatings
- Pharmaceuticals
- Textile
- Energy & Power
- Mining
- Others
- Propylene Carbonate 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
- Propylene Carbonate Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- BASF SE
- Huntsman Corporation
- LyondellBasell Industries
- Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.
- Shandong Feiyang Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Qingdao Aspirit Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Shandong Shida Shenghua Chemical Group
- Shandong Longze Chemical Co., Ltd.
- Shandong Depu Chemical Industry Science and Technology Co., Ltd.
- Shandong Wells Chemicals Co., Ltd.
- Carl Roth
- Eastman Chemical Company
- Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
- INEOS Group
- Safic-Alcan
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

