Polyacrylamide Market

The global Polyacrylamide market size was USD 5.12 billion in 2023, and is calculated at USD 5.44 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to reach USD 9.92 Billion by 2034, and register a revenue 6.2% over the forecast period (2025-2034).

Premium Insights:

Global Polyacrylamide market revenue growth is driven majorly by increasing demand from water and wastewater treatment facilities. Also, expanding oil and gas exploration and recovery initiatives, and increasing demand for packaging materials is driving demand for Polyacrylamide (PAM) in paper manufacturing.

PAM is used in a variety of industries for various purposes and functionalities. Anionic Polyacrylamide is used widely in water and sewerage treatment, mining and ore recovery, biotechnology laboratories, horticulture, and paper and pulp industries. Demand for PAM is also increasing steadily due to need for more efficient oil recovery methods and stringent environmental regulations on use of some other alternatives being used.

Continuously high and rising demand for petroleum-based fuels is a major factor driving growth of the Polyacrylamide market. PAM is used in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) to improve the extraction of crude oil from reservoirs. Partially Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide (HPAM) is the most common type of polymer used for EOR, and has greater viscosity than other polymers, even when added in low concentrations. PAM is used as an inhibitor in drilling fluids to coat or encapsulate formations and cuttings, can also be used as a flocculent in clear water drilling, and is used in reservoir modification.

Demand for Polyacrylamide from the textiles industry is also significantly high. PAM is used as a sizing agent and finishing agent for fabric post-treatment, and can form a flexible, anti-wrinkle, and anti-mildew protective layer on fabrics. Strong hygroscopicity characteristics reduce thread breakage rate during spinning, and can prevent fabric static and act as a flame retardant. Also, Polyacrylamide is used as a printing and dyeing auxiliary, offering higher adhesion to surfaces, and is also used as a stabilizer for bleaching non-silicon polymers. A major application of anionic Polyacrylamide is in high-efficiency purification of textile printing and dyeing wastewater. Printing and dyeing wastewater contains high level of pollutants resulting from washing of toning, printing cylinder, and printing screen, and Polyacrylamide plays a major role in post-treatment wastewater of soaping, water washing and washing of printing lining. It also serves to effectively treat ammonia nitrogen content resulting from large volumes of urea that are used in reactive dyes. Additionally, painting wastewater contains a variety of resins, formaldehyde, surfactants and others.

In the agriculture sector, Polyacrylamide plays a role as synthetic polymer for soil conditioner to improve soil structure and reduce erosion. PAM binds soil particles together, making it harder for water to move them, and this stabilizes soil aggregates and reduces surface sealing. It can also reduce erosion by over 95% in furrow irrigation, and reduces surface sealing and crusting in rain-fed agriculture and sprinkler irrigation, while also improving water quality and water-use efficiency. Furthermore, cost efficiency in furrow irrigation systems and construction applications adds to appeal and preference of PAM and these factors are expected to continue to support growth of the global Polyacrylamide market over the forecast period.

Polyacrylamide contains small amounts of unreacted acrylamide, and is used in the cosmetics and personal care products industry to stabilize products and bind ingredients, and also has foaming, anti-static, and lubricating properties. PAM is a water-soluble polymer and made from acrylamide or a combination of acrylamide and acrylic acid, which is present in some foods like sugar and potatoes. Polyacrylamide is used in food processing and food packaging applications as flocculant and thickener in food processing. In addition, PAM is used in mining owing to applicability in soil conditioning and water and wastewater treatment, and is also used in medicine and biochemistry for purification and assays. Nonhydrolyzed Polyacrylamide gels are used as a medium for protein and nucleic acid electrophoresis in biotechnology laboratories. Superabsorbent water crystals made from Polyacrylamide are used in denture adhesives, contact lenses, diapers, and wound dressings.

In addition, rising focus on more eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives and materials is driving use of bio-based Polyacrylamide across various end-use industries. Wide applicability and application of bio-based Polyacrylamide across a variety and range of industries is expected to continue to support revenue growth of the global Polyacrylamide market over the forecast period.

Top Polyacrylamide Market Drivers and Trends:

• High Demand from Water Treatment Facilities: Demand for Polyacrylamide is rising demand from water treatment facilities and municipalities. Superior flocculation properties positions Polyacrylamide as a widely used product in wastewater treatment plants to remove contaminants, especially in municipal and industrial water treatment.
• Increasing Challenges in Oil and Gas Industry: Use of PAM is increasing application in the oil and gas industry, particularly for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques, to enable improved oil extraction rates. Also, rising concerns regarding environmental sustainability and stringent regulations to reduce water pollution are factors driving adoption in water management.
• Expanding Mining Sector Activities: Rapid expansion of the mining sector is contributing significantly to rising demand for Polyacrylamide. PAM is used for solid-liquid separation in mineral processing and is crucial for soil stabilizing and its flocculating properties improve runoff water quality and reduce sediments.
• Increasing Demand for Agriculture Applications: Advancements in agriculture, particularly in soil conditioning and erosion control, are driving demand as a soil stabilizer. Technological advancements in Polyacrylamide production have also led to improved product efficiency and customization, and support broader adoption across various agriculture applications.
• Advantages and Benefits: Polyacrylamide offers benefits such as enhanced process efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and lower operating costs in industries like paper manufacturing, mining, and petroleum. Major end-use sectors include water treatment, oil and gas, mining, and the pulp and paper industry. Rising use of Polyacrylamide in hydraulic fracturing fluids in the oil and gas sector is also contributing to market growth.
• Sustainability and Environmental Concerns: Rising focus on environmental protection and sustainability is driving demand for Polyacrylamide in eco-friendly applications. Companies are investing in Research and Development (R&D) to improve product performance and diversify applications. Strategic partnerships and innovative offerings in polymer solutions, such as bio-based Polyacrylamide, are also contributing to market growth. As increasing number of industries adopt greener practices and more stringent regulations are implemented, demand for eco-friendlier, safer, and efficient water treatment and resource management practices are expected to support demand for Polyacrylamide.

Polyacrylamide Market Restraining Factor Insights

• High Production Costs: Raw materials used in Polyacrylamide production, particularly acrylonitrile and other petrochemicals, are subject to price volatility, making the overall production process expensive. This can raise the cost for end-users, limiting wider adoption, especially in cost-sensitive markets.
• Environmental Concerns: Polyacrylamide may be widely used for environmental purposes such as water treatment and erosion control, among others, some of its byproducts, including acrylamide, are considered potentially harmful. Environmental and health risks raise concerns and could lead to stricter regulations and tighter control over its use, thereby limiting adoption in some regions and markets.
• Research and Development Challenges: R&D on more eco-friendly or bio-based alternatives to synthetic Polyacrylamide is an ongoing challenge. While demand for more sustainable versions remains consistent, R&D in this area currently faces technical and cost-related obstacles, slowing down innovation and delaying the introduction of next-generation products.
• Availability of Alternatives: Competition from alternative products in water treatment and other sectors could negatively impact demand and market growth. Innovations in membrane technology, for instance, or other chemical substitutes could reduce dependence on Polyacrylamide, posing a competitive threat.
• Harmful Effects in Food Applications: Acrylamide, the chemical used to make Polyacrylamide, is a chemical that forms when certain foods are heated to high temperatures in the presence of sugars. It is found in foods that contain the amino acid asparagine, such as potatoes, and also can also be found in tobacco smoke and cosmetics. Acrylamide has been linked to harmful effects on human health, and some studies have found an increased risk of postmenopausal endometrial and ovarian cancer with higher acrylamide intake.

Polyacrylamide Market Opportunities

• Avenues in Emerging Markets: Expansion into emerging markets offers significant potential, especially in Asia-Pacific and Africa, where investment in water treatment infrastructure is high due to rapid industrialization and urbanization trends. Companies establishing a local presence and forming partnerships with regional governments and industries can capitalize on rising demand for Polyacrylamide in these markets. This also allows for market penetration while mitigating the high cost of imports, which can be a barrier in developing economies.
• R&D Investment: Investing in research and development to produce bio-based or eco-friendly Polyacrylamide represents a lucrative opportunity. Growing environmental concerns and tighter regulations around synthetic polymers support the trend towards developing sustainable alternatives and add a competitive edge to companies. Companies can create additional revenue streams by introducing these innovative products across industries, including agriculture, water treatment, and oil recovery.
• Mergers and Acquisitions and JVs: Strategic mergers, acquisitions, and Joint Ventures (JVs) with complementary businesses can accelerate revenue share expansion. For instance, collaborating with companies specializing in wastewater management or enhanced oil recovery technologies can broaden application areas and increase product reach. Such partnerships also allow companies to diversify their portfolios, access new customer bases, and increase operational efficiency.

Polyacrylamide Market Segmentation:

By Type:

• Cationic
• Anionic
• Non-ionic

By Form:

• Powder
• Liquid
• Emulsion/Dispersions

By Application:

• Enhanced Oil Recovery
• Flocculants for Water Treatment
• Soil Conditioner
• Binders And Stabilizers in Cosmetics
• Food Processing
• Other

By End-User Industry:

• Water Treatment
• Oil and Gas
• Pulp & Paper
• Mining
• Textiles
• Food
• Agriculture
• Construction
• Cosmetics
• Household Products
• Other

Segment Insights:

By Type:

The anionic segment among the type segments is expected to account for largest revenue share in the global Polyacrylamide market over the forecast period. Anionic Polyacrylamide is widely used in water treatment applications, which is one of the largest end-use sectors for this product. Anionic Polyacrylamide serves as an effective flocculant, particularly in treating wastewater and industrial effluents, making it a crucial component for municipal and industrial water treatment facilities. Also, anionic Polyacrylamide is extensively used in the mining industry for solid-liquid separation, and increasing demand for water and minerals and ores worldwide is a key factor expected to continue to contribute to growth of this segment.

By Form:

Among the form segments, the powder segment is expected to continue to account for largest revenue share. Powder Polyacrylamide is highly concentrated and has a longer shelf life compared to its liquid and emulsion counterparts, making it the preferred choice for large-scale industrial applications. Ease of handling and transportation in powdered form further enhances appeal, particularly in sectors like water treatment, mining, and oil and gas. Additionally, its versatility in different concentrations allows it to be used across various processes, enhancing its adoption across multiple industries.

By Application:

The flocculants for water treatment segment among the application segments is expected to dominate others in terms of revenue share. Water treatment is a critical industry globally due to increasing population, industrialization, urbanization, and water scarcity. Effectiveness of Polyacrylamide in aggregating particles and improving water quality makes it indispensable for treating wastewater, drinking water, and industrial effluents. Also, rising emphasis on water reuse, recycling, and strict environmental regulations are driving adoption of Polyacrylamide in water treatment, especially in countries such as China and India, which are investing significantly in water infrastructure.

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By End-User Industry:

Among end-user industry segments, the water treatment segment is expected to account for largest revenue share over the forecast period. Factors such as rising concerns about water pollution and limited freshwater resources are driving steady demand for efficient water treatment solutions. Polyacrylamide plays a crucial role in flocculation and sedimentation processes, which are vital in both municipal water treatment facilities and industrial wastewater management. Also, stringent environmental regulations imposed by governments to curb water contamination, particularly in regions facing water shortages, are further driving the use of Polyacrylamide. As industries and municipalities prioritize sustainable water management, demand for Polyacrylamide from the water treatment industry is expected to continues to rise and support growth of this segment.

Regions and Countries

North America

• United States
• Canada
• Mexico

Europe

• Germany
• United Kingdom
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• India

Rest of Asia Pacific

• Latin America
• Brazil
• Argentina

Rest of Latin America

• Middle East & Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates
• Israel
• Rest of MEA

Polyacrylamide Market Regional Landscape:

Among the regional markets, Asia Pacific Polyacrylamide market is expected to register fastest revenue growth rate. In 2024, Asia Pacific is estimated to have consumed 2.21 million tons, with over 30% used in the oil and mineral mining industries. Factors driving market growth include rapid industrialization, urbanization, and stringent environmental regulations in countries such as China and India. China’s dominance in this industry, driven by robust demand for water treatment and robust expansion of its oil and gas, mining, and textile industries, and rising investments in wastewater treatment infrastructure and agriculture in India are expected to continue to support revenue growth of the market in the region.

The North America Polyacrylamide market is expected to account for over 39% revenue share in the global market in 2024. The US leads in terms of revenue share contribution, primarily supported by increasing use of Polyacrylamide in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in the oil and gas sector. Stringent environmental regulations on wastewater treatment and water reuse are further supporting demand for Polyacrylamide. In the Europe Polyacrylamide market, Germany and France account for significant demand volume due to robust water treatment frameworks and demand in the paper and pulp industries.

In Latin America, Brazil leads among the country-level markets in terms of revenue share and volume consumption, driven by growing agricultural sector and rising demand for water treatment in urban centers and industries.

Polyacrylamide Market Competitive Landscape:

Company List:

• SNF
• BASF SE
• Solenis LLC
• Sterling Specialty Chemicals
• Beijing Hengju Chemical Group Co., Ltd.
• Anhui Jucheng Fine Chemicals
• Solvay
• Kemira
• Xitao Polymer Co.
• China National Petroleum Corporation
• The Dow Chemical Company
• PetroChina Company Limited
• Black Rose Industries Ltd
• ZL Petrochemical Co., Ltd
• Ashland Inc.

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape in the global Polyacrylamide market is marked by presence of a number of large multinational companies, along with regional players competing for market share. Leading companies such as BASF SE, Kemira Oyj, SNF Group, and Solvay S.A. dominate others in the market due to extensive product portfolios, global presence, and strong distribution networks.

Some key strategies is investment in research and development of more efficient, sustainable, and bio-based Polyacrylamide products. With growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures, companies are focusing on creating eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic polymers, which helps attract environmentally conscious customers and meet tightening regulations. Also, strategic mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships are adopted by companies seeking to expand their geographical reach and diversify product offerings. For Collaborations with local water treatment and oil and gas service providers enable global companies to penetrate emerging markets more effectively, and this is an approach some major companies have deployed.

In addition, companies are adopting cost optimization strategies by enhancing production efficiency and reducing raw material dependency. This includes scaling up production capacities and optimizing supply chains to meet rising demand from key sectors like water treatment, oil and gas, and mining.

Recent Developments

• August 5, 2024: SNF made significant strategic moves with the signing agreements to acquire PfP Industries and Ace Fluid Solutions. Dates for completion are yet to be announced, but these strategic acquisitions reinforce commitment of SNF to delivering best-in-class solutions and highlights dedication to driving long-term value for upstream oil and gas customers. SNF is a specialty chemical group based in Andrezieux, France, whose products contribute to treating, recycling, preserving water, saving energy, and reducing carbon footprint. While PfP Industries is a global leader in ‘dry on the fly’ and slurry friction reducer technologies and applications, Ace Fluid Solutions has expertise in fluid management. SNF can through this move be able to offer in each basin a diverse array of friction reducers in the form of an emulsion, slurry, or dry, which can be linked to additional frac fluid chemistry, such as surfactants, scale control agents, guar, crosslinkers, and other water treatment products and services to support a complete offering.
• July 17, 2024: Solenis announced it signed an agreement to acquire flocculants business for mining applications from BASF, and financial details of the transaction have been agreed to be withheld by both parties. The BASF product portfolio includes flocculants and other products used for solid liquid separation and material handling in mining applications under trademarks Magnafloc, Rheomax, Alclar, Alcotac, Jetwet, Aerowet, and Alcotech. Solenis is owned by Platinum Equity, which is a leading global producer of specialty chemicals focused on delivering sustainable solutions for water-intensive industries, including pulp and paper, institutional, industrial, food and beverage, and pool and spa water markets. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of water treatment chemistries, process aids, functional additives, cleaners, disinfectants, and state-of-the-art monitoring, control and delivery systems.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the global Polyacrylamide market size in 2024 and what is the projection for 2034?

A: The global Polyacrylamide market size was calculated at USD 5.44 billion 2024 and is projected to reach USD 9.92 billion in 2034

Which regional market accounted for largest revenue share in 2023, and what is the expected trend over the forecast period?

A: Asia Pacific Polyacrylamide market is expected to lead in terms of revenue share and revenue growth rate over the forecast period.

Q: Which are the major companies are included in the global Polyacrylamide market report?

A: Major companies in the market report are SNF, BASF SE, Solenis LLC, Sterling Specialty Chemicals, Beijing Hengju Chemical Group Co., Ltd., Anhui Jucheng Fine Chemicals, Solvay, Kemira, Xitao Polymer Co., China National Petroleum Corporation, The Dow Chemical Company, PetroChina Company Limited, Black Rose Industries Ltd, ZL Petrochemical Co., Ltd, Ashland Inc.

Q: What is the projected revenue CAGR of the global Polyacrylamide market over the forecast period?

A: The global Polyacrylamide Market is expected to register a CAGR of 6.2% between 2025 and 2034.

Q: What are some key factors driving revenue growth of the Polyacrylamide market ?

A: Some key factors driving market revenue growth include rising demand for bleach and cleaning agents and products from water and wastewater treatment facilities, healthcare applications, food processing, agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, laundry and cleaning, and various others