Polyacrylamide Market Share, Size and Growth Analysis By 2029

The global polyacrylamide market was valued at approximately US$ 4714.79 million in 2022 and is anticipated to grow to US$ 6485.30 million by 2028. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2022 to 2028.

Polyacrylamide is a synthetic polymer created through the polymerization of acrylamide monomers. It plays a crucial role in the flocculation process of solids and liquids, making it essential for applications in wastewater treatment, paper manufacturing, and screen printing. The cationic variant of polyacrylamide holds a significant market share, primarily due to its increasing utilization across various sectors, including construction, water desalination, and cell separation in biotechnological processes. Additionally, polyacrylamide derivatives are widely employed in oil recovery and soil conditioning. This polymer is available in both powdered and liquid forms, and the rising global population, coupled with the escalating demand for water purification, is driving the need for polyacrylamide.

Moreover, the wastewater treatment sector is expected to further boost the demand for polyacrylamide throughout the forecast period, as the need for effective water purification solutions continues to rise. Stricter regulations regarding wastewater management are likely to enhance treatment activities, particularly in North America and Europe, where environmental concerns are becoming increasingly prominent. This trend is expected to positively influence the growth of the polyacrylamide market. Furthermore, advancements in polyacrylamide polymer development aimed at producing gels and powders are anticipated to create new opportunities within the life sciences and pharmaceutical sectors.

The polyacrylamide market can be categorized based on type into three segments: cationic, anionic, and non-ionic. The anionic segment has emerged as the leader in market share, driven by its expanding applications in petroleum extraction, paper production, and the wastewater treatment industry. The growth of this segment can be attributed to the advantageous properties of anionic polyacrylamide, which include high molecular weight and a significant degree of polymerization. These characteristics confer flexibility, shear stability, cohesion, dispersibility, thickening capabilities, and strength reduction, making it a cost-effective choice in various applications.

Polyacrylamide finds utility across numerous industries, including paper and water treatment, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and more. Its biocompatibility and tolerability have further facilitated its adoption in drug delivery systems and biomedicine, where it serves as an intermediate in pharmaceutical formulations. Polyacrylamide can exist in both single-chain and cross-linked forms, with the latter being reduced to simpler structures that enhance its absorbent properties. These attributes contribute to the stabilization of soil structure, reducing water consumption and soil erosion, thereby making the soil more conducive for agricultural practices. The high absorption capacity of polyacrylamide helps prevent crop damage, particularly in scenarios where soil dries rapidly following heavy rainfall.

Increasing awareness regarding wastewater management and the necessity to mitigate soil erosion are significant factors propelling the growth of the polyacrylamide market. The demand for polyacrylamide is expected to rise due to the growing need for oil production and the effects of urbanization and population growth. As the population expands, the requirement for water purification intensifies, and polyacrylamide is utilized in flocculation processes for oil production. It is extensively employed in wastewater treatment across various chemical industries and municipal facilities, including mineral processing, metallurgy, coal refining, steel and iron production, and electronics. Additionally, polyacrylamide is utilized in applications such as enhanced oil recovery (EOR), oil drilling additives, and drag reduction. It also plays a vital role in stabilizing soil aggregates and minimizing soil erosion by coagulating suspended solids, making it beneficial for sprinkler irrigation, rainwater agriculture, and pre-irrigation practices.

Key players in the polyacrylamide market include SNF, Kemira Oyj, BASF SE, China National Petroleum Corporation, Anhui Jucheng Fine Chemicals, Mitsui Chemicals, Inc., Ashland Inc., Black Rose Industries Ltd., Xitao Polymer Co., Ltd., and Dongying Kechuang Biochemical Industrial Co., Ltd. These companies are focusing on strategies such as research and development investments and the introduction of new products. They aim to create high-quality and innovative solutions to meet customer demands.

The overall size of the polyacrylamide market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methods. The research process began with extensive secondary research utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data related to the polyacrylamide market. Additionally, numerous primary interviews were conducted with industry stakeholders to validate the findings and gain deeper analytical insights. Participants in this research included VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, national sales managers, and external consultants, such as valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the polyacrylamide market.