The polyacrylic acid market has witnessed steady growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) used in products like diapers, adult incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, and agricultural applications. Polyacrylic acid (PAA) is a key ingredient in the production of these SAPs due to its excellent water-absorbing properties. PAA is a water-soluble polymer with applications in several industries, including personal care, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and textiles.

In the historical period of 2018-2024, the polyacrylic acid market saw a healthy increase, largely attributed to the growing use of SAPs in the hygiene and agricultural sectors. The market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, with a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period of 2025-2034, ultimately reaching a market value of USD 7.60 billion by 2034. This growth is further fueled by advancements in production technologies and the increasing adoption of PAA-based products in emerging markets.

Polyacrylic Acid Market Size

The polyacrylic acid market was valued at USD 4.7 billion in 2024, and it is anticipated to grow significantly in the next decade. With increasing demand for superabsorbent polymers in various sectors, such as hygiene, agriculture, and healthcare, the market is expected to reach a size of USD 7.60 billion by 2034. This translates into a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2025 to 2034.

The demand for polyacrylic acid is driven by its ability to absorb large quantities of water, which makes it ideal for use in a wide range of applications that require water retention, such as in diapers, feminine hygiene products, and water-storing products in agriculture. With growing urbanization and a rise in consumer awareness regarding hygiene products, the market is likely to expand even further.

Polyacrylic Acid Market Trends

Several trends are shaping the future of the polyacrylic acid market:

Rising Demand for Superabsorbent Polymers: The demand for superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) is increasing globally, especially in the hygiene sector, including diapers, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products. Polyacrylic acid is a key component in the manufacturing of SAPs, making it essential to the market’s growth.

Growth in Agricultural Applications: Polyacrylic acid is being increasingly used in agriculture for water retention in soil. With the growing need for water-efficient farming methods, PAA is finding applications in water-absorbing gels, soil conditioners, and fertilizers. This trend is driving the demand for PAA in agriculture, especially in regions facing water scarcity.

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Products: As sustainability becomes a focal point for both manufacturers and consumers, the polyacrylic acid market is seeing a shift towards more eco-friendly, biodegradable, and non-toxic formulations. Manufacturers are focusing on developing greener production methods and incorporating renewable raw materials into PAA production.

Advancements in PAA Production Technology: New technologies in the production of polyacrylic acid are improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of its manufacturing process. The use of innovative techniques like polymerization and other chemical processes is enabling higher yield and lower environmental impact, which is attracting more industries to adopt PAA-based solutions.

Growth in Emerging Markets: Emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific, are expected to be significant contributors to the growth of the polyacrylic acid market. The increasing use of hygiene products and the expansion of agriculture in these regions are key factors fueling the market's growth.

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Polyacrylic Acid Market Segmentation

Form
Liquid
Powder

Type
Co-Polymer
Homo-Polymer
Ter-Polymer

Application
Water and Wastewater Treatment
Detergents and Cleaners
Paints, Coatings, and Inks
Superabsorbent Polymers
Others

Region
North America
Europe
Asia-Pacific
Latin America
Middle East Africa

Polyacrylic Acid Market Growth

Demand for Hygiene Products: With a global rise in population and urbanization, the need for hygiene products, especially in developing countries, is on the rise. Polyacrylic acid plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of superabsorbent polymers, which are used in diapers, feminine hygiene products, and adult incontinence products. This growing demand for hygiene products will be a significant growth driver for the market.

Technological Innovations: Advancements in production technologies for polyacrylic acid, such as more efficient polymerization processes, are making it easier and more cost-effective to produce high-quality PAA. This, in turn, is encouraging its widespread use in industries like agriculture, personal care, and healthcare.

Agricultural Applications: With climate change and water scarcity becoming global concerns, polyacrylic acid is increasingly being used in agricultural applications to conserve water in soil. This application is expected to expand, driving demand for polyacrylic acid in the agricultural sector.

Regulatory Support for Sustainable Practices: Governments around the world are increasingly focused on promoting sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. Polyacrylic acid is being recognized as an environmentally friendly alternative to other materials, with a low carbon footprint and minimal environmental impact, which further fuels its adoption across industries.

Polyacrylic Acid Market Forecast

The polyacrylic acid market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period of 2025-2034, reaching a market value of USD 7.60 billion by 2034. This growth will be primarily driven by increased demand for superabsorbent polymers in hygiene products, the expansion of agricultural applications, and continued advancements in production technologies. As emerging markets continue to expand, the demand for polyacrylic acid will see a steady increase, contributing to the overall market growth.

Competitor Analysis

Ashland Global Holdings Inc.: Ashland is a key player in the global polyacrylic acid market, providing high-quality PAA products for various industries, including personal care, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.

Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.: Nippon Shokubai is a prominent producer of polyacrylic acid, offering a wide range of PAA-based products with applications in superabsorbent polymers, adhesives, and agricultural products.

Dow Chemical Company : Dow is a global leader in the chemicals industry and plays a major role in the polyacrylic acid market with its extensive product offerings for hygiene, agriculture, and industrial applications.

Kao Chemical Corporation : Kao is a leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals, including polyacrylic acid, with a strong presence in the personal care and hygiene product markets.

The Lubrizol Corporation : Lubrizol is another key player in the market, specializing in advanced materials and chemicals, including polyacrylic acid used in personal care, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications.

Others : Other significant players include BASF SE, Arkema, and Clariant, all of which contribute to market growth through their extensive product portfolios and continued innovation.

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