Synthetic Zeolites Market Size, Share, Growth Trends, Forecast Report 2024-2031

Synthetic Zeolites Market Size

Global Synthetic Zeolites Market reached US$ 5.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 6.6 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 3.1% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Synthetic zeolites have remarkable ion-exchange capacities, making them ideal for use as water softeners to remove calcium, magnesium and other ions. Due to several environmental regulations, zeolite 4A has replaced poly-condensed phosphate builders such as sodium tripolyphosphate, which was previously used in the detergent sector. According to figures from the China Cleaning Industry Association, sodium tripolyphosphate output and growth rates have decreased.

As the demand for phosphorus-containing products decreases, 4A zeolite has become increasingly important in the additives market. 4A zeolite has a strong exchange activity with calcium ions in water, as well as the ability to co-sequester insoluble contaminants and improve cleaning detergency. The main reason for this is the increased understanding of the damaging effects of phosphate-based detergent additives. 

In 2023, North America is expected to be the second-dominant region with over 20% of the global synthetic zeolites market. The region's market growth is driven by the existence of well-established end-use industries that include petrochemicals, detergents and catalysts. The region is seeing strong development in shale gas production, which is increasing demand for synthetic zeolites. Furthermore, severe environmental rules regulating the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are driving market expansion. 

Market Scope

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Synthetic Zeolites Market Dynamics

Rising Investments in Petrochemical Industry

The existence of petrochemical plants, together with increased consumption of detergents, animal feed, water treatment and agricultural products, is predicted to raise product consumption in U.S. during the next few years. Growing investments in U.S. petrochemicals industry are predicted to boost demand for synthetic zeolite as a catalyst. For example, Chevron Phillips Chemical has indicated that it will announce its Final Investment Decision on a new cracker in Texas in 2022, then launch another FID of US$ 8 billion in a joint venture petrochemical complex along U.S. Gulf Coast in 2023.

Furthermore, Reliance Industries Ltd. and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. have agreed to develop a US$ 2.0 billion petrochemical plant in UAE. The agreement will result in the formation of a new joint venture at Ta'ziz. Increased investments in petrochemicals are expected to boost product demand over the predicted period.

Restrictions in Use of Phosphates 

Phosphates have traditionally been used in substantial quantities in a number of detergents. Since phosphates are nutrients that aid in animal and plant growth, their high concentration in water bodies as a result of detergent runoff can disrupt the equilibrium of the aquatic ecosystem, triggering rapid growth of aquatic plants such as water algae. It can also lead to water contamination. The release of phosphates in sewage systems along with wastewater is regulated in some locations.

As a result, governments globally are enacting severe rules to prohibit or limit the amount of phosphates in cleaners used in industrial operations. For example, phosphate-containing laundry detergents have been banned in U.S. since 1994. Furthermore, in UK, rules such as (EU) No 259/2012 restrict the use of phosphate in laundry and dishwasher detergents. Thus, driving need for synthetic zeolite.

Stringent Regulations and High Production Costs

Environmental restrictions aiming at decreasing industrial emissions and waste have an impact on synthetic zeolite production processes. Compliance with the regulations increases operational costs. There is increasing pressure to implement sustainable and environmentally friendly production processes. While this can spur innovation, it also needs extra spending in R&D.

Synthetic zeolites are produced using energy-intensive, high-temperature methods. Fluctuating energy prices, particularly during geopolitical tensions or supply disruptions, can dramatically affect manufacturing costs. The requirement for modern technology and equipment to improve manufacturing efficiency and product quality necessitates significant capital investments. Smaller businesses may find it difficult to compete due to these high entry barriers.

Synthetic Zeolites Market Segment Analysis

The global synthetic zeolites market is segmented based on type, function, grade, application, end-user and region.

Rising Investments in Oil & Gas Drives the Segment Growth 

Oil & gas is expected to be the dominant segment with over 30% of the market during the forecast period 2024-2031. Synthetic zeolites are utilized as catalysts in the oil and gas sector due to their higher activity, stability and selectivity in major conversion and upgrading processes when compared to their amorphous counterparts. The ongoing push for higher-quality transportation fuels and chemicals creates chances for further market demand.

Zeolites play a key role in increasing the pace of reaction in fluid catalytic cracking and hydrocracking, therefore refinery expansion is likely to boost segment growth. For example, in November 2021, the Indian Oil Corporation announced plans to increase its capacity by 25 million tons per year. The firm is anticipated to enhance its entire refining capacity from around 81 to 106 million tons per year by 2023-24. 

Synthetic Zeolites Market Geographical Share

Setup of New Petrochemical Plants in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is expected to be t he dominant region in the global synthetic zeolites market covering over 30% of the market. The region’s market is expected to grow rapidly due to the development of new petrochemical plants, water recycling plants, detergent consumption and increased cement and animal feed production. For example, in April 2021, Kumho Mitsui Chemicals Inc. announced a US$ 358.1 million investment to expand its chemical manufacturing facilities in South Korea. 

Furthermore, Lion Corporation intends to develop its detergent production facilities in Thailand and Myanmar, where the standard of living is continuously improving. The corporation has agreed to invest US$ 19.9 million in the development of the new factories. The increase in large-scale construction projects in Asia-Pacific will result in rising demand for cement, hence boosting the zeolite market growth during the forecast period. 

Synthetic Zeolites Market Major Players

The major global players in the market include Clariant, CWK Chemiewerk Bad Köstritz GmbH, W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn., KNT Group, BASF SE, Albemarle Corporation, Arkema, Tosoh Corporation, Honeywell International Inc. and Zeolyst International Inc.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

Lockdowns and limitations in major producing countries hampered the mining and processing of raw materials required for synthetic zeolite manufacture. It led to supply constraints and increased raw material costs. Many manufacturing firms had to temporarily close or curtail operations owing to COVID-19 outbreaks among employees and rigorous health standards. The resulted in lower manufacturing capacity and delays in delivering orders.

The implementation of health and safety measures, such as social distancing and sanitization methods, raised manufacturers' operating costs. During the pandemic, global industrial output declined, particularly in the petrochemical industry, reducing demand for synthetic zeolites used as catalysts. Lower oil costs and lower gasoline use also contributed to decreased activity in this industry.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact 

The conflict has disrupted the supply of raw materials needed to produce synthetic zeolites. Russia and Ukraine are both key producers of minerals and chemicals required for zeolite manufacturing. The war caused shortages and higher prices for certain raw materials. Russia is a significant exporter of oil and natural gas. 

The war has resulted in higher globally energy prices, raising manufacturing costs for synthetic zeolite manufacturers. The cost increases have a particularly significant impact on energy-intensive operations in zeolite manufacture. The war's volatility has resulted in considerable changes in synthetic zeolite pricing. Uncertainty in the availability and cost of raw materials makes it difficult for manufacturers to maintain constant pricing and profitability.

By Type

• Zeolite A
• Type X
• Type Y
• Ultra-Stable Y (USY)
• Zsm-5
• Others

By Function

• Ion-Exchange
• Molecular Sieve
• Catalyst
• Others

By Application

• Detergent Builder
• Drying, Separation and Adsorption
• Catalytic Cracking
• Specialties
• Others

By End-User

• Oil & gas
• Wastewater Treatment
• Refrigerants
• Paints and Coatings
• Adhesives and Sealants
• Others

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of South America
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

• In July 2021, BASF SE increased its chemical catalyst recycling capacity and capability by the acquisition of Zodiac Enterprises LLC in Caldwell, Texas. Additional people will be hired to increase the site's production capacity. It may result in the growth of synthetic zeolite products.
• In June 2021, Honeywell announced that it collaborated with the Defense Research Development Organization and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Petroleum, Government of India, to supply molecular sieve adsorbents (zeolites) to speed up the establishment of Medical Oxygen Plants in the country to address the ongoing pandemic.
• In June 2019, W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn bought Rive Technology, Inc. and its Molecular Highway zeolite technology. The acquisition facilitated the use of Rive's technology to create various types of zeolites for chemical catalysts and processes.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global synthetic zeolites market segmentation based on type, function, grade, application, end-user and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of synthetic zeolites market-level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global synthetic zeolites market report would provide approximately 70 tables, 71 figures and 204 pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies