Nanoparticle Measurement Instrument Market Report By Insights, Size, and Growth - 2031

The market for nanoparticle measurement instruments is anticipated to expand from US$ 7.59 billion in 2023 to US$ 10.93 billion by 2031, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% during the period from 2023 to 2031.

The demand for enhanced sensitivity, precision, and throughput in the measurement and characterization of nanoparticles is propelling innovations across various analytical methodologies. One such method, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), has gained traction due to its capability to identify and analyze individual nanoparticles within solutions, providing critical data regarding their size distribution and concentration levels. An advanced version of this technology, known as multi-laser NTA, utilizes three lasers that operate simultaneously with independently adjustable power settings. Recent advancements, including fluorescence NTA, have further enhanced the analysis of fluorescently labeled nanoparticles, making it particularly beneficial for targeted studies and tracking applications.

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is instrumental in delivering high-resolution topographical images of large nanoparticle samples on surfaces. In July 2024, Park Systems, a prominent manufacturer of nano-metrology systems, unveiled the Park FX200, its latest AFM innovation designed for 200-millimeter (mm) samples. This new instrument aims to meet the needs of both industrial and research sectors, showcasing significant advancements in large-sample AFM technology. The integration of modern analytical techniques into nanoparticle measurement tools is leading to a surge in the application of nanotechnology across various fields, especially in medicine. Consequently, the introduction of cutting-edge products for nanoparticle measurement is a key driver of growth in the nanoparticle measurement instrument market.

Despite this growth, the high costs associated with these instruments pose a significant barrier to market expansion. The price range for new nanoparticle size analyzers typically falls between US$ 20,000 and US$ 150,000, influenced by the technology, features, and capabilities of the equipment. Smaller companies, startups, academic institutions, and other research organizations often find it challenging to invest in advanced nanoparticle measurement instruments due to their steep costs and limited budgets. Financial limitations may lead these organizations to postpone investments in new equipment or enhancements to their nanoparticle research capabilities, which could slow down instrument sales. Additionally, the maintenance of such high-end instruments, which is required at regular intervals, can further increase operational costs. As a result, the substantial expenses associated with sophisticated nanoparticle measurement instruments restrict their accessibility primarily to large pharmaceutical firms and well-funded research institutions, thereby impeding overall market growth.

Type-Based Insights

The nanoparticle measurement instrument market is categorized by type into several segments, including x-ray diffractometers, scanning electron microscopes, atomic force microscopes, photon correlation spectroscopes, nanoparticle surface area monitors, transmission electron microscopes, condensation particle counters, differential mobility analyzers, scanning mobility particle sizers, nanoparticle tracking analyzers, aerosol particle mass analyzers, and others. In 2023, the transmission electron microscope segment dominated the market share and is projected to exhibit the highest CAGR from 2023 to 2031.

As various techniques for synthesizing nanomaterials evolve, researchers are increasingly seeking more precise instruments for characterization. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is becoming the most prevalent technique for identifying nanoparticles due to its ability to interact with the inner shell electrons of atoms. This capability has prompted numerous companies to develop XRD technologies specifically for measuring colloidal nanoparticles. XRD analysis is crucial in the pharmaceutical drug development process, aiding in the enhancement of drug formulations, assessing excipient compatibility, detecting bioavailability, and improving drug stability across various formulations, including suspensions. According to insights from Malvern Panalytical in 2024, the company has innovated techniques that allow its Empyrean X-ray diffraction (XRD) instrument to conduct small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analysis in colloidal liquids and grazing incidence SAXS (GISAXS) on solid samples, enabling researchers to explore new avenues without needing a dedicated SAXS instrument. Thus, the growing application of XRD techniques in product development is driving the demand for x-ray diffractometers.

In preparing this market report, primary and secondary sources such as the European Biotechnology Thematic Network Association, the Food and Drug Administration, and the American Society for Testing and Materials were consulted.