Acrylamide Market By Application (Water Treatment, Food Processing, Oil Recovery, Paper Processing); By Type (Solid Acrylamide, Liquid Acrylamide); By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAMEA), Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Acrylamide Market will witness a robust CAGR of 6.5% , valued at USD 3.5 billion in 2024 , expected to appreciate and reach USD 5.2 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research. Acrylamide is a chemical compound primarily used in the production of polyacrylamide, which serves various industrial purposes, such as in water treatment, paper processing, and food production. It is also found as a by-product in foods that are fried, baked, or roasted at high temperatures, raising concerns around food safety and consumer health.

 

Acrylamide's strategic relevance has grown, particularly in water treatment and food safety, as global environmental concerns rise and stricter regulations are enforced. This has led to a surge in research and development activities aimed at minimizing acrylamide levels in food and enhancing its sustainable production in various industries.

 

Key Macro Forces Impacting the Market:

• Technological Advances : The market is witnessing innovations in acrylamide production techniques, focusing on sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and reduced environmental impact.

• Regulatory Pressures : Governments globally, particularly in North America and Europe, are tightening food safety regulations due to the carcinogenic potential of acrylamide in processed foods, especially fried and baked goods.

• Environmental Concerns : With the increasing need for wastewater treatment and safe industrial chemicals, acrylamide-based products, such as polyacrylamide, are witnessing growing demand, as they help treat water and wastewater more efficiently.

• Industrial Growth : Emerging economies in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are witnessing rapid industrial growth, further boosting the demand for acrylamide in various applications, such as water treatment, paper production, and oil recovery.
   

Key Stakeholders:

• Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) : Companies producing acrylamide and its derivatives, like polyacrylamide, for use in various industries.

• Governments and Regulatory Bodies : Agencies such as the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) that regulate acrylamide levels in food products to ensure public health safety.

• End-Users : Industries utilizing acrylamide in food production, water treatment, and various other industrial applications.

• Investors : With increasing market growth, investors are exploring opportunities in both established and emerging markets to capitalize on the expanding demand for acrylamide-based solutions.
   

This introduction sets the stage for understanding the strategic significance of acrylamide in the global market over the forecast period from 2024 to 2030 , which will be shaped by innovations in production, regulatory oversight, and growing industrial applications.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The Acrylamide Market is segmented based on application , type , and region , providing a comprehensive view of the market dynamics and strategic opportunities. The following outlines the segmentation in detail, including forecast growth trends and key sub-segments that are expected to drive the market forward.

By Application:

• Water Treatment : Polyacrylamide, produced from acrylamide, is widely used as a flocculant and coagulant in water treatment processes. This segment is the largest application area, driven by increasing global concerns around water quality and wastewater treatment. The water treatment sector will continue to see significant growth, with demand rising by 7.2% annually through 2030.

• Food Processing : Acrylamide is a by-product in food processing, particularly in the frying and baking of starchy foods. As regulatory bodies enforce stricter limits on acrylamide content in food products, manufacturers are investing in new technologies to minimize acrylamide formation. The food processing segment is growing at 6.1% CAGR , as businesses and governments seek to address public health concerns.

• Oil Recovery : Acrylamide-based polymers are used in enhanced oil recovery processes, particularly in the oil extraction industry. This segment is projected to grow steadily at a 5.8% CAGR , driven by increasing global energy demands and oil exploration activities, particularly in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) regions.

• Paper Processing : Acrylamide-based products are used in paper manufacturing, particularly for water treatment and improving paper quality. Although this segment has a slower growth rate, it remains a key player, with a projected growth rate of 4.5% CAGR .

 

By Type:

• Solid Acrylamide : Solid acrylamide is primarily used in industrial applications, including water treatment and oil recovery. This form of acrylamide accounts for the larger share of the market , with demand expected to grow by 6.0% annually .

• Liquid Acrylamide : Liquid acrylamide is mainly used in food processing and some cosmetic applications. As food safety regulations tighten, the liquid form’s use in food production is expected to rise, growing at a 6.8% CAGR over the forecast period.

 

By Region:

North America :

North America holds the largest share of the Acrylamide market, particularly in food safety and water treatment. The market is expected to grow from USD 1.2 billion in 2024 to USD 1.8 billion by 2030 , driven by stringent regulations and technological advancements. Regulatory bodies like the FDA in the U.S. have created frameworks to monitor and reduce acrylamide levels in foods.
 

Europe :

Europe is the second-largest market for acrylamide, with strong regulations on food safety and water treatment. This region’s market is expected to expand at a 6.0% CAGR , rising from USD 900 million in 2024 to USD 1.4 billion by 2030 . Countries such as Germany, the UK, and France have led the adoption of stringent food safety measures concerning acrylamide levels.
 

Asia-Pacific :

Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region , with rapid industrialization, urbanization, and expansion in food processing and water treatment sectors. The region will grow at 7.5% CAGR , driven by countries like China and India. From USD 700 million in 2024 , the market in this region is projected to reach USD 1.1 billion by 2030 .
 

Latin America, Middle East, and Africa (LAMEA) :

While the LAMEA region remains underpenetrated, it presents significant growth potential, particularly in emerging markets. The demand for acrylamide in water treatment and oil recovery in countries like Brazil and Saudi Arabia is expected to drive market growth at 5.4% CAGR , from USD 200 million in 2024 to USD 300 million by 2030 .

 

Strategic Insights:

• The Water Treatment application dominates the market, driven by increasing industrialization and the need for effective water purification systems globally. This segment will continue to capture the largest market share, contributing significantly to market revenue growth.

• Regulatory Impact : The tightening of food safety regulations is expected to lead to increased research and development in acrylamide reduction technologies, particularly in food processing. This will spur innovation in safer food preparation methods.

• Asia-Pacific's Growth : As industrial activities in countries like China and India continue to surge, demand for acrylamide in water treatment and other industrial applications will see an uptick, positioning the region as a high-growth market for acrylamide.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

The Acrylamide Market is experiencing several key trends and innovations that are shaping the future of its applications, production processes, and regulations. As industries become more focused on sustainability, food safety, and efficiency, new technologies and regulatory developments are impacting the market. Here’s an in-depth look at the current trends and innovations that are expected to have a lasting impact:

1. Advancements in Acrylamide Reduction Technologies:

• Food Processing Innovations : Due to the increasing concern over acrylamide formation in fried and baked foods, food manufacturers are investing heavily in reducing acrylamide levels. New cooking techniques and technologies are being developed, such as lower-temperature frying , microwave heating , and modified processing conditions . These innovations not only help reduce acrylamide formation but also address consumer demand for healthier food options. Companies are exploring the use of enzymes and food additives that inhibit acrylamide formation during the cooking process.

• Regulatory Compliance : The FDA and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) continue to implement stringent regulations on acrylamide levels in food, which is driving innovation in food production and processing technologies. As food companies strive to meet these regulations, investments in acrylamide reduction technologies will increase.

 

2. Polyacrylamide Advancements in Water Treatment:

• Acrylamide’s key derivative, polyacrylamide , is used extensively in water treatment processes due to its efficiency in water purification and wastewater management. With growing concerns about water scarcity and the need for effective water treatment solutions, the demand for polyacrylamide is on the rise.

• Green Polyacrylamide : In response to increasing environmental concerns, there has been significant innovation in bio-based polyacrylamide . These environmentally friendly alternatives are derived from renewable resources and have lower ecological impacts compared to traditional petrochemical-based polyacrylamide. This trend is gaining momentum, particularly in regions with stringent environmental regulations such as Europe and North America.

• The development of high-efficiency, low-toxicity polyacrylamide products is becoming a significant area of focus, as industries look to improve the sustainability of water treatment practices.

 

3. Technological Integration and AI for Enhanced Production:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning are playing a growing role in optimizing acrylamide production. AI models are being used to predict and control reaction conditions, improving the yield and efficiency of acrylamide synthesis while minimizing waste. These technologies are making the production process more cost-effective and sustainable .

• Automation and process control technologies are being integrated into acrylamide production plants, leading to better control over raw material usage, energy consumption, and emissions. This not only helps improve operational efficiency but also reduces environmental impact.

 

4. Food Safety and Consumer Health Focus:

• Growing consumer awareness about food safety and the health risks of consuming acrylamide-laden foods has led to a shift in consumer behavior . Food producers are being pressured to find alternative methods of cooking and ingredients that can minimize the formation of acrylamide without compromising taste or texture.

• As a result, there is a growing interest in natural inhibitors and antioxidants that can reduce acrylamide levels during food processing. This includes the use of herbs, spices , and food-grade additives that can neutralize or inhibit the formation of acrylamide during high-temperature cooking.

 

5. Sustainability and Circular Economy Initiatives:

• The drive toward a circular economy is impacting the acrylamide industry, particularly in wastewater treatment and oil recovery . Companies are focusing on waste-to-value innovations, where by-products from acrylamide production or other industrial processes are being repurposed or recycled for use in other applications.

• There is also a growing emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and improving the energy efficiency of acrylamide production. The development of more sustainable production methods , such as bio-based acrylamide , is gaining traction in the marketplace, as it reduces reliance on non-renewable resources and aligns with global sustainability goals.

 

6. Regulatory Landscape and Standardization:

• Global Regulations : In response to concerns about acrylamide’s potential carcinogenicity, countries such as the U.S. , Germany , and Japan are enacting or strengthening regulations around its use in food products. The European Union’s Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 limits acrylamide content in certain food products, pushing food manufacturers to adopt innovative processing methods to stay compliant.

• Food Industry Pressure : The global food industry is responding to the increasing pressure for transparency and sustainability . Companies are focusing on meeting stricter food safety standards while addressing public health concerns regarding acrylamide. This is fueling innovation in product formulation, as well as the development of healthier alternatives and the use of low-acrylamide-producing ingredients .

 

7. Collaborations and Partnerships:

• Companies in the acrylamide supply chain are increasingly collaborating with universities, research institutions, and regulatory bodies to develop better products and comply with evolving regulations. Strategic partnerships are being formed between chemical manufacturers , food processing companies , and environmental agencies to drive innovation in acrylamide reduction technologies and sustainable production practices.

• Notably, collaborations between technology firms and academic researchers are accelerating the development of AI-powered tools for predicting and managing acrylamide levels in food production.

 

Expert Commentary:

The trend toward sustainable and greener acrylamide production, combined with the rising regulatory scrutiny over its presence in food products, will likely continue to drive the market's evolution. Companies that invest in innovative technologies to reduce acrylamide formation and improve the sustainability of production will be better positioned to succeed in the long term. As environmental and health concerns take center stage, the focus will shift toward creating acrylamide-free alternatives, particularly in the food industry.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The Acrylamide Market is characterized by the presence of several key players involved in the production and application of acrylamide and its derivatives, particularly polyacrylamide. These companies are focusing on innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships to strengthen their market positions. The competitive landscape is also shaped by the evolving regulatory environment and the increasing demand for safer and more sustainable acrylamide production processes. Here is a look at the leading players in the Acrylamide Market:

1. BASF SE

• Strategy : BASF is one of the largest and most established players in the acrylamide market, with a strong focus on polyacrylamide products for water treatment and oil recovery. The company is also investing in sustainability and green technologies for acrylamide production.

• Global Reach : BASF operates in over 90 countries, with a significant presence in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

• Product Differentiation : BASF offers a broad portfolio of polyacrylamide products with specialized formulations for various applications, including water treatment, paper processing, and mining. They also focus on bio-based alternatives, positioning themselves as leaders in sustainable production .

 

2. SNF Floerger

• Strategy : SNF is a leader in the production of polyacrylamide , serving industries such as water treatment, oil and gas, and mining. They focus on continuous product innovation, particularly in improving the efficiency and sustainability of polyacrylamide products.

• Global Reach : SNF has a strong global presence, with manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. It is particularly well-established in the water treatment market.

• Product Differentiation : SNF is recognized for its comprehensive range of flocculants and coagulants for industrial water treatment. The company’s focus on high-performance, low-toxicity formulations gives it an edge in environmentally conscious markets.

 

3. Solvay S.A.

• Strategy : Solvay focuses on sustainable chemicals and has been shifting towards bio-based acrylamide solutions to reduce environmental impact. They are heavily invested in technology advancements to make the production of acrylamide more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly .

• Global Reach : Solvay operates in more than 50 countries, with significant operations in North America, Europe, and Asia.

• Product Differentiation : Solvay offers specialized polyacrylamide solutions for various industrial applications, with a growing emphasis on eco-friendly and sustainable production methods . Their investment in bio-based technologies positions them to capitalize on the demand for greener chemicals.

 

4. Dow Chemical Company

• Strategy : Dow focuses on diversification in the chemicals industry and is a prominent player in the water treatment sector. The company is committed to developing innovative acrylamide-based products with a strong emphasis on safety and environmental compliance .

• Global Reach : Dow has a robust market presence in the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, serving industries in agriculture, energy, and water treatment.

• Product Differentiation : Dow offers a wide array of polyacrylamide and acrylamide-based formulations that are designed to meet the needs of diverse sectors, including agriculture and food processing. Dow is known for its commitment to research and development and is continuously improving its production processes to meet industry regulations.

 

5. Kemira Oyj

• Strategy : Kemira specializes in polymer-based solutions , including polyacrylamide for water treatment and pulp and paper industries. The company’s strategy is centered around sustainability and efficiency in its product offerings.

• Global Reach : Kemira is a global player with operations in Europe, North America, and Asia. The company has established itself as a leading supplier of water treatment chemicals.

• Product Differentiation : Kemira’s products are widely recognized for their high-quality polyacrylamide solutions, which are used in municipal and industrial water treatment applications. The company is also focusing on environmentally responsible production and cost-effective solutions .

 

6. AkzoNobel N.V.

• Strategy : AkzoNobel is expanding its footprint in the acrylamide market through the development of innovative polymers and sustainable chemicals . The company is actively focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of its production processes.

• Global Reach : AkzoNobel operates globally with a presence in over 80 countries. The company’s strong presence in Europe and North America enables it to meet regulatory demands in these regions.

• Product Differentiation : AkzoNobel is known for its innovative and sustainable polymer solutions , offering a wide variety of specialty chemicals that cater to industries such as paper, water treatment, and coatings .

 

7. Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation

• Strategy : Mitsubishi Chemical focuses on expanding its polyacrylamide business, particularly in water treatment and oil recovery applications. The company is keen on enhancing its technological capabilities and introducing advanced polyacrylamide products .

• Global Reach : Mitsubishi Chemical has a solid presence in the Asia-Pacific region, with increasing market penetration in North America and Europe.

• Product Differentiation : The company’s polyacrylamide products are known for their high molecular weight and efficiency in water treatment . Mitsubishi is also focusing on improving the sustainability of its product offerings, responding to increasing environmental concerns .

 

Competitive Insights:

• Sustainability and Innovation : Players like Solvay and SNF are leading the way in terms of sustainability. Their investment in bio-based polyacrylamide and eco-friendly technologies positions them well for future market demands.

• Market Share Leadership : BASF and SNF remain the dominant players in the polyacrylamide market, leveraging their strong global networks and advanced product offerings.

• Technological Advancements : Companies such as Dow and Kemira are at the forefront of implementing AI and automation in the acrylamide production process, enhancing efficiency and reducing production costs.

• Regulatory Compliance : The increasing regulatory pressure, especially in the food processing industry, is driving companies to innovate and comply with stricter standards. Those who can adapt to these regulations, such as Solvay and AkzoNobel , are likely to gain a competitive advantage .

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The Acrylamide Market is shaped by distinct regional dynamics that influence its growth prospects, driven by varying regulations, industrial applications, and market demand across the globe. Here, we explore the regional adoption outlook for acrylamide, with a focus on North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, Middle East, and Africa (LAMEA).

North America

• Market Overview : North America remains the largest market for acrylamide, particularly driven by its widespread use in water treatment, food processing, and oil recovery applications. The U.S. and Canada lead the market, with significant demand from both the industrial and regulatory sectors.

• Regulatory Landscape : The FDA and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continue to enforce strict food safety standards in the U.S., pushing companies to adopt innovative technologies to reduce acrylamide levels in food. Similarly, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) monitors food products for acrylamide content, encouraging food producers to find safer alternatives to traditional cooking methods.

Market Trends :

• The water treatment sector remains dominant, with acrylamide-based polyacrylamide used in municipal and industrial water purification systems.

• Food safety regulations are encouraging food producers to invest in acrylamide-reduction technologies , spurring innovation in low-acrylamide food production methods.

• Growth Rate : The market in North America is expected to grow at 6.0% CAGR , reaching USD 1.8 billion by 2030 from USD 1.2 billion in 2024 .

 

Europe

• Market Overview : Europe has a strong regulatory framework, with countries like Germany , France , and the UK leading the adoption of acrylamide-related solutions. The region has been proactive in establishing guidelines to minimize acrylamide levels in food, driven by consumer health concerns and food safety awareness.

• Regulatory Landscape : The European Union has stringent food safety regulations, notably Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 , which sets maximum levels of acrylamide in foods. This has led food manufacturers to explore innovative cooking technologies and use of acrylamide-reduction ingredients.

Market Trends :

• There is a growing focus on sustainable production methods and green chemicals , especially in the polyacrylamide sector, where eco-friendly products are gaining traction.

• Water treatment and paper processing are the largest application segments, with continued growth driven by industrial needs.

• Growth Rate : Europe’s acrylamide market is projected to expand at 6.0% CAGR , reaching USD 1.4 billion by 2030 from USD 900 million in 2024 .

 

Asia-Pacific

• Market Overview : The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market for acrylamide, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and increased demand for water treatment chemicals. The region’s expanding food production sector also plays a key role in driving acrylamide demand.

• Regulatory Landscape : While regulatory pressure is less stringent compared to North America and Europe, China , India , and other nations are gradually implementing stricter food safety guidelines, especially as food processing technologies improve. In China , there is an increasing focus on regulating acrylamide levels in food to safeguard public health.

Market Trends :

• Water treatment is the largest and fastest-growing segment, driven by both municipal and industrial water purification needs, particularly in China and India.

• Food processing demand is also on the rise due to expanding middle-class populations, driving the need for safer food production methods.

• Growth Rate : The market in Asia-Pacific is forecasted to grow at 7.5% CAGR , expanding from USD 700 million in 2024 to USD 1.1 billion by 2030 .

 

Latin America, Middle East, and Africa (LAMEA)

• Market Overview : The LAMEA region remains underpenetrated in terms of acrylamide usage but is showing signs of growth due to increased industrialization, investment in infrastructure, and rising awareness about water treatment and food safety.

• Regulatory Landscape : Regulatory pressure on acrylamide is limited in this region, though some countries are beginning to adopt food safety measures. Brazil and Mexico in Latin America are leading the charge, with regulatory bodies beginning to set food safety standards for acrylamide content. In the Middle East , countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are increasingly investing in water treatment infrastructure, driving demand for acrylamide-based solutions.

Market Trends :

• Water treatment applications are growing, especially in urbanized areas and major cities in Brazil , South Africa , and the Middle East .

• Food safety awareness is rising, albeit slowly, with greater consumer demand for healthier, low-acrylamide foods.

• Growth Rate : The market in LAMEA is expected to grow at 5.4% CAGR , increasing from USD 200 million in 2024 to USD 300 million by 2030 .

 

Key Regional Insights:

• North America and Europe will continue to dominate the acrylamide market, driven by strong regulatory frameworks, advancements in food safety measures, and high demand for water treatment chemicals.

• Asia-Pacific is poised for the fastest growth, fueled by urbanization, industrial expansion, and increasing food production.

• LAMEA is expected to see steady growth, particularly as countries invest in infrastructure and begin to address food safety concerns related to acrylamide.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

The end-users of acrylamide span a broad spectrum of industries, with the most significant demand coming from sectors like water treatment, food processing, and oil recovery. Understanding how each of these sectors adopts acrylamide and the specific needs of each end-user helps highlight the market's diverse applications and future growth potential.

1. Water Treatment Industry

• Adoption and Demand : The water treatment sector is the largest and most significant end-user of acrylamide. Acrylamide is primarily used in the form of polyacrylamide , a polymer that acts as a flocculant and coagulant to remove impurities from water. It is widely used in municipal water treatment plants, industrial water treatment, and wastewater management processes.

• Key Drivers : The increasing global population, industrialization, and rising water contamination concerns are driving the demand for acrylamide in water treatment. With rising environmental concerns and stricter regulations on water quality, the market for polyacrylamide-based water treatment products continues to expand.

Market Trends :

• Green chemistry : The move toward more sustainable and eco-friendly water treatment processes is encouraging the development of bio-based polyacrylamide products.

• Rising water scarcity : In regions such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East, water scarcity and pollution issues are intensifying the adoption of acrylamide-based solutions for water purification.

 

2. Food Processing Industry

• Adoption and Demand : Acrylamide's role in food processing is a growing area of concern due to its formation when certain starchy foods are cooked at high temperatures, such as in frying and baking. This has led to increasing regulatory scrutiny regarding acrylamide levels in food products. The food processing industry is under pressure to adopt methods and technologies to reduce acrylamide formation while maintaining food quality.

• Key Drivers : Growing consumer demand for healthier food options , stringent food safety regulations (such as those enforced by the FDA and EFSA), and the development of innovative food processing technologies are key drivers. As food manufacturers face greater scrutiny over acrylamide levels, there is a significant push toward adopting acrylamide-reduction technologies in food production.

Market Trends :

• Low-acrylamide food production : Manufacturers are adopting technologies like lower-temperature cooking , microwave processing , and enzyme treatment to reduce acrylamide formation in food.

• Alternative food additives : Research into natural inhibitors and antioxidants that reduce acrylamide during food processing is gaining momentum, especially in countries with strict food safety standards.

 

3. Oil Recovery Industry

• Adoption and Demand : Acrylamide-based polymers, especially polyacrylamide , are widely used in the oil and gas industry for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) . Polyacrylamide is used in the secondary recovery process to increase the yield of oil from existing wells, especially in low-permeability formations where traditional methods are ineffective.

• Key Drivers : The increasing demand for energy resources , the need to optimize oil recovery from mature fields, and technological advances in EOR techniques are driving the growth of acrylamide-based products in the oil and gas industry.

Market Trends :

• Enhanced EOR techniques : Innovations in polymer flooding and other EOR methods are encouraging the use of acrylamide-based products to enhance oil extraction efficiency.

• Sustainability : There is growing interest in bio-based polymers for EOR to reduce the environmental impact of traditional polymer-based solutions.

 

4. Paper Processing Industry

• Adoption and Demand : Acrylamide-based products, particularly polyacrylamide, are used in paper processing for paper retention and water treatment during the production process. The paper industry is a significant consumer of polyacrylamide, especially in countries with established paper manufacturing sectors.

• Key Drivers : The growth of the packaging and printing industries, coupled with ongoing demand for paper products in various sectors, drives the demand for acrylamide in paper production. Additionally, environmental regulations requiring the treatment of wastewater and better water quality in paper mills further increase the demand for polyacrylamide.

Market Trends :

• Sustainable paper production : The focus on sustainability in the paper industry is driving the adoption of eco-friendly polyacrylamide products that reduce water consumption and environmental impact.

• Increasing demand for packaging : The surge in e-commerce and consumer demand for packaging materials is also contributing to the growth of acrylamide use in paper processing.

 

Use Case Example: Water Treatment in a Municipal System

A municipal water treatment plant in California faced challenges with increasing levels of industrial and agricultural wastewater entering its system. The plant adopted polyacrylamide-based products for flocculation , helping to aggregate and remove contaminants from the water before it was released into local water bodies.

• Impact : The plant saw a 40% increase in filtration efficiency , reducing the amount of chemicals needed for water purification. This innovation not only improved the quality of the treated water but also helped the plant comply with stringent environmental regulations for water quality.

• Future Outlook : The plant is now looking into bio-based polyacrylamide options to further enhance sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint of their water treatment processes.

 

End-User Insights:

• Water Treatment : This remains the dominant and fastest-growing sector for acrylamide, driven by increasing global concerns about water pollution and scarcity. Municipalities and industrial facilities are increasingly adopting sustainable, high-performance acrylamide-based solutions.

• Food Processing : With increasing regulatory pressure, food processors are focusing on reducing acrylamide in foods while balancing the need for cost-effective production methods. Innovations in food technology and cooking methods will continue to shape this segment.

• Oil Recovery : The oil and gas sector will see sustained demand for acrylamide in enhanced oil recovery methods, particularly in regions with mature oil fields and a need for improved extraction efficiency.

• Paper Processing : The paper industry’s adoption of acrylamide will grow as companies seek to meet environmental standards and improve the efficiency of their production processes, particularly in water usage.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (Last 2 Years)

FDA Guidelines on Acrylamide in Food (2024) :

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) introduced updated guidelines for food manufacturers on the reduction of acrylamide in food products. The guidelines include recommended cooking methods and targeted levels of acrylamide in processed foods, marking a significant shift in food safety standards.

• Impact : This move has accelerated the adoption of new food processing technologies and has pushed food producers to implement low-acrylamide production methods and invest in acrylamide-reduction solutions.
   

Launch of Bio-Based Polyacrylamide by BASF (2024) :

• BASF SE , a leader in the acrylamide industry, announced the launch of a bio-based polyacrylamide product line, made from renewable resources. This is part of their ongoing commitment to sustainability and reducing the environmental footprint of acrylamide production.

• Impact : This move is expected to appeal to industries looking for eco-friendly alternatives, particularly in water treatment and paper production, where sustainability is a growing focus.
   

Partnership between SNF and Water Treatment Authorities (2023) :

• SNF Floerger , a global leader in polyacrylamide production, entered a strategic partnership with municipal water treatment authorities in Europe to enhance wastewater management processes. The partnership focuses on using advanced polyacrylamide-based solutions for more efficient and sustainable water treatment.

• Impact : This collaboration is expected to drive the adoption of polyacrylamide in municipal water treatment , further strengthening SNF’s market position in the water treatment sector.
   

Expansion of Polyacrylamide Production by Kemira in Asia-Pacific (2023) :

• Kemira , a key player in the acrylamide market, expanded its polyacrylamide production facilities in China and India to meet the growing demand in the Asia-Pacific region. This expansion aims to support the rising need for polyacrylamide in water treatment and other industrial applications.

• Impact : Kemira’s expansion is expected to drive growth in the Asia-Pacific market, particularly in water treatment and paper processing industries, and further enhance its competitiveness in the region.
   

New Regulatory Standards in the EU for Food Products (2023) :

• The European Union (EU) implemented more stringent regulations for acrylamide levels in food products, mandating lower maximum limits for various foods, including fried and baked items.

• Impact : These regulations are pushing food manufacturers to adopt safer cooking techniques and find innovative solutions to reduce acrylamide formation, driving demand for new technologies in food processing.
   

Opportunities

Sustainability in Water Treatment :

• The increasing demand for sustainable water treatment solutions presents significant opportunities for acrylamide manufacturers to introduce eco-friendly polyacrylamide products. Bio-based and low-toxicity polyacrylamide are becoming more attractive to municipalities and industries seeking greener alternatives for water purification.

• Growth Potential : Regions with water scarcity issues, such as Asia-Pacific and LAMEA , will experience heightened demand for polyacrylamide-based water treatment solutions.
   

Technological Innovations for Food Safety :

• As governments and consumers demand healthier food options , there is a growing opportunity for acrylamide producers to invest in acrylamide-reduction technologies . Innovations like enzymes , alternative cooking methods , and natural inhibitors can significantly reduce acrylamide content in food products.

• Growth Potential : The food processing industry, especially in North America and Europe , will continue to seek solutions to comply with regulatory standards while maintaining product quality.
   

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) Expansion :

• With the increasing need for improved oil extraction from mature fields, polyacrylamide remains a key component in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques. The global rise in oil and gas exploration presents significant opportunities for acrylamide-based products, especially in Middle Eastern , African , and Latin American oil-rich regions.

• Growth Potential : Increased investments in EOR techniques will drive demand for acrylamide-based polymers in the oil recovery sector, particularly in regions with high oil production.
   

Investment in Research and Development (R&D) :

• As the demand for safer, more sustainable acrylamide products increases, manufacturers are investing heavily in R&D to develop bio-based acrylamide solutions, improve acrylamide reduction technologies , and find new applications for acrylamide in industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.

• Growth Potential : Innovations in bio-based products and sustainable production methods offer companies the chance to lead in the competitive acrylamide market.

 

Restraints

Health Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny :

• Acrylamide’s potential carcinogenicity remains a major restraint in the market. The increasing scrutiny from regulatory bodies, such as the FDA and EFSA , could impose stricter limits on acrylamide usage in food products and force food manufacturers to adopt expensive solutions to reduce acrylamide content.

• Impact : This can increase operational costs for food manufacturers and push companies to invest in expensive technologies, which could restrict market growth.
   

Environmental Impact of Production :

• The production of acrylamide and its derivatives can have a significant environmental impact , especially in terms of energy consumption and chemical waste . There is increasing pressure from governments and consumers for greener alternatives in industrial production.

• Impact : As environmental regulations tighten globally, companies may face challenges in meeting these demands unless they invest in sustainable production methods . This could increase production costs and hinder market expansion.
   

High Production Costs :

• Acrylamide production, particularly bio-based acrylamide, can be capital-intensive and energy-consuming . High production costs could limit the market growth potential, particularly in regions where price sensitivity is a concern.

• Impact : Smaller manufacturers in emerging markets may struggle to adopt the latest acrylamide production technologies, affecting their ability to compete with established global players.
  
   

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 3.5 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 5.2 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 6.5% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Application, By Type, By Region
By Application	Water Treatment, Food Processing, Oil Recovery, Paper Processing
By Type	Solid Acrylamide, Liquid Acrylamide
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAMEA
Market Drivers	Increasing Water Treatment Demand, Regulatory Food Safety Standards, Technological Innovations
Customization Option	Available upon request