Plasticizers are relatively non-volatile substances that incorporated into a plastic or elastomer to improve the polymer’s flexibility, extensibility, and processability. Plasticizers increase the thermoplasticity of a polymer by decreasing:
- The viscosity of the polymer
- The glass transition temperature
- The melting temperature
Over 30,000 substances have been tested for use as a polymer plasticizer, while about 50 are available for use. Plasticizers are used in different industries, including:
- Medical thermoforming to create IV bags and flexible devices;
- Automotive thermoforming to mould flexible hoses;
- Clothing design to make shoe soles flexible and comfortable;
- Telecommunications to form durable, low-friction, flexible casing to go around wires and cables.
Plasticizers market
The global Plasticizers market size was US$ 14 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach US$ 22 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.1% over the period 2020-2030.
The global plasticizers market is segmented by type (phthalate, dicarbonates, phosphates, fatty acid esters, polyesters, citrates, bio-based plasticizers, and others), by application (wires & cables, pvc films, roofing, rubber, adhesives, inks and others), by end-users(Automotive, Aerospace, Electrical & Electronics, Building & Construction, Medical & Healthcare, and others), and by region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa). Electrical and electronics, due to the extensive utilization of plasticizers are estimated to be the significant segment of the plasticizer market over the period 2020-2030.
Plasticizers market growth drivers
The Plasticizers market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by several factors:
- Increasing demand for PVC: Plasticizers are used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The growing demand for PVC in various industries such as construction, automotive, electrical, and packaging is driving the demand for plasticizers.
- Urbanization: Urbanization and infrastructure development have led to an increased demand for construction materials, including PVC-based products. Plasticizers are essential additives in PVC formulations for applications such as pipes, wires, cables, and roofing materials.
- Automotive industry: The automotive industry is a major consumer of plasticizers. Plasticizers are used in the production of PVC-based products such as automotive interiors. The growth of the automotive industry is driving the demand for plasticizers.
- Packaging industry: Plasticizers play an important role in the production of flexible packaging materials such as films and containers. The increasing demand for packaged food, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals is boosting the growth of the packaging industry, and consequently the demand for plasticizers.
- Technological advancements: Research and development activities in the field of plasticizers have led to the development of new products. Manufacturers are focusing on developing eco-friendly plasticizers to meet the consumer demand for environmentally friendly products.
Plasticizers price trend
The price of plasticizers can be influenced by various factors such as supply and demand, raw chemical material costs, and market conditions. These factors can change over time and are often influenced by global economic trends. Some key factors that can impact the price of plasticizers are:
Raw chemical material costs
The cost of raw chemical materials used in the production of plasticizers, such as phthalic anhydride can have a significant impact on the price of plasticizers. Fluctuations in the prices of these raw materials can affect the cost of production and, consequently the price of plasticizers.
Supply and demand
The balance between the supply and demand for plasticizers can influence the price. If the demand for plasticizers exceeds the available supply, prices may increase. Conversely, if there is an oversupply of plasticizers in the market, prices may decrease.
Market conditions
Market conditions can impact the price of plasticizers. Factors such as industrial production, and construction activity can influence the demand for plasticizers and, consequently their price.
Energy costs
The cost of energy can impact the price of plasticizers. Plasticizers are often derived from petrochemicals, and fluctuations in energy prices can affect their production costs.
It’s important to note that these factors can interact with one another, and their impact on plasticizer prices can vary over time and across different regions.
Our experts in ArChem monitor and analyze various aspects of the global plasticizers market. They analyze various segments and provide an analysis of the market performance in the long term. This would be useful for our customers to plan their future investments, understand the cost dynamics, and gain awareness about the behaviour of competitors across the globe.
FAQ
What is the price of plasticizers in the market?
Depending on your orders, Prices of plasticizers are different. For more information about the plasticizer’s price, please contact our technical sales team in ArChem.
What is the size of the plasticizers market?
The global Plasticizers market size was US$ 14 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach US$ 22 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.1% over the period 2020-2030.
What are Plasticizers?
A plasticizer is a non-volatility liquid or solid substance which are generally colourless and odourless. When they are incorporated into raw polymers like a type of plastic or rubber, their flexibility would get improved and it would help us to shape them easier.