What is Adipic Acid?
Adipic acid is a crystalline fatty acid with the formula (CH2)4(COOH)2 generally used for the manufacturing of nylon, polyurethane, polymer, and plasticizers. Almost 90 percent of adipic acid products are used in the manufacturing of nylon. Nylon is further applicable in many industries like carpeting, clothing, automobile, and construction. It is also used in the lubricant component. Adipic acid is manufactured from a combination of cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone called ketone-alcohol oil (KA oil). Adipic acid is formed when KA oil is oxidized with nitric acid. It acts as a monomer in the polymer. It is also used in foods as gelling aid and flavorant. It has low hygroscopicity and high tartness. It is also used for the cosmetics formulation.
Here are some of the driving factors that increase the opportunity for the Adipic Acid market
Growing demand for nylon 66:
Increasing consumption of nylon 66 is the major factor that propels the adipic acid market. Nylon 66 is majorly used in the fibers for textiles and carpets and molded parts. Due to its mechanical strength, good stability, heat, and chemical resistance, rigidity it is broadly used in the textile industry. Nylon 66 is used in clothing, tire cords, carpets, conveyor belts, and brushes. Sometimes, it is used for the coating of plastic. Adipic acid manufacturing accounts for over 90% of nylon 66 manufacture. The protein-like structure of nylon is further processed to create fibers for use in carpets, tire cord for cars, and clothes.
Increasing demand in end-use industries:
The growing demand in the construction, electronic, automotive, and pharmaceutical industries drives the growth of the market. It is used to make nylon, lubricant, polyurethane, and plasticizers also used in food flavoring, adhesives, and baking powder. Adipic acid is widely used as a feedstock for polyester polyols, plasticizers, and nylon 6,6 resins and fibers. Adipic acid has been used as a lubricant ingredient in coatings, foams, and shoe soles as well as a tanning agent in the leather industry. The increasing use of polyurethane, polymer, and lubricant in the automobile, construction, and packaging industries is expected to expand the adipic acid market.
Here are the restraining factors that may hinder the growth of the adipic acid market:
Adverse environmental impact:
Adipic acid uses fossil fuels for the manufacturing process. The usage of adipic acid for the manufacturing of nylon 6,6 and polyurethane results in increased worldwide embodied N2O emissions. N2O emission is a significant factor to cause climate change. While the heating of adipic acid, there is a loss of one molecule of carbon dioxide, hazardous to the environment. The increasing environmental awareness and regulation may hinder the growth of the market.
Availability of nylon substitutes which is a key consumer market for adipic acid:
The availability and acceptance of alternative substances for nylon may hamper the growth of the market. Adipic acid is primarily used in the production of nylon 66. However, alternative materials like polyesters, polypropylene, and bio-based polymers may be used as a substitute for nylon. These alternatives offer similar properties and it is more cost-effective.
Conclusion:
Increasing demand in the end-use industries like automotive, construction, pharmaceutical, and packaging helps to enlarge the market size of the adipic acid market. Increasing consumption of nylon 66 drives the growth of the adipic acid market. Mechanical strength, good stability, heat and chemical resistance, and rigidity of adipic acid help to make it suitable for several applications.
Author's Detail:
Manoj Phagare /
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Manoj Phagare is a dynamic and results-driven research analyst with a passion for transforming raw data into actionable insights. Armed with a solid foundation in market research and data analysis and working in various domains including chemical & materials and paints & coatings. He thrive on the challenge of uncovering patterns, trends, and opportunities that drive strategic decision-making.His analytical mindset, coupled with effective communication skills, allows him to bridge the gap between data analysis and practical business applications.
In his current role, Manoj is a key player in market research and competitive analysis. He have a proven track record of synthesizing disparate data sources, employing statistical models, and delivering comprehensive insights. He have played a pivotal role in shaping evidence-based strategies that fueled the success of key business initiatives and Collaborating with cross-functional teams.Manoj remains an invaluable asset in the dynamic landscape of market research.
