Adipic Acid Market

Market Overview:

The global adipic acid market size reached USD 6.6 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 10.6 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate of (CAGR) of 5.25% during 2025-2033. Asia-Pacific currently dominates the market, driven by its large manufacturing base and thriving automotive and textile sectors. The increasing utilization of adipic acid across the automotive and food and beverage (F&B) industries is majorly driving the market toward growth.

Market Size & Forecasts:

• Adipic acid market was valued at USD 6.6 Billion in 2024.
• The market is projected to reach USD 10.6 Billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.25% from 2025-2033.

Dominant Segments:

• End Product: Nylon 66 fibers lead the market because they require adipic acid as a core raw material. These fibers are widely used in textiles, industrial yarns, and automotive components due to their strength and durability.
• Application: Plasticizers dominate the adipic acid market since they enhance flexibility and durability in polymers, and adipic acid is a key component in producing them. With rising usage in wire coatings, flooring, and consumer goods, the demand for plasticizers continues to grow.
• End User: Automotive represents the largest market share as it employs adipic acid in nylon-based components like airbags, seat belts, and engine covers due to its high heat resistance and mechanical strength. This widespread use in lightweight and durable parts helps reduce vehicle weight, improving fuel efficiency.
• Region: Asia-Pacific leads the adipic acid market due to strong industrial infrastructure, expanding automotive production, and rising urbanization activities. Countries like China and India also constitute burgeoning textile industries, which use adipic acid extensively to make fabrics and carpets.

Key Players:

• The leading companies in adipic acid market include Asahi Kasei Corporation, Ascend Performance Materials, BASF SE, Domo Chemicals, Invista (Koch Industries), Lanxess AG, Radici Partecipazioni SpA, Solvay S.A., Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd., Tangshan Zhonghao Chemical Co. Ltd., TCI Chemicals (India) Pvt. Ltd., Tian Li High & New Tech Co. Ltd., etc.

Key Drivers of Market Growth:

• Rising Manufacturing of Bio-Based Adipic Acid: Bio-based adipic acid offers a sustainable alternative to petrochemical sources. It reduces environmental impact and attracts industries seeking eco-friendly materials, especially in automotive, packaging, and construction applications.
• Growing Focus on Research and Development (R&D) Activities: Increasing emphasis on R&D activities is enabling innovations in production processes, improving cost-efficiency, and developing eco-friendly alternatives. It supports the creation of high-performance materials, expanding applications across automotive, textiles, and packaging industries.
• Increasing Usage in Plasticizers and Lubricants: Adipic acid enhances the properties of plasticizers and synthetic lubricants, making them suitable for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications, thus supporting consistent market expansion across diverse end use sectors.
• Technological innovations: Technological innovations are enabling more efficient, cost-effective, and environment friendly production methods. Advancements, such as process optimization, are reducing waste and energy use, while supporting the development of high-performance materials that meet evolving industrial and sustainability standards.
• High Demand in Consumer Electronics Industry: Adipic acid is used in producing durable, lightweight plastic components. Its role in enhancing thermal stability and mechanical strength supports the manufacturing of reliable electronic devices and components.

Future Outlook:

• Strong Growth Outlook: The adipic acid market is set to see sustained expansion, driven by high demand from numerous industries, including electronics and lubricants. Rising focus on sustainability and the development of bio-based alternatives are expected to support steady market growth over the coming years across multiple regions.
• Market Evolution: The sector is anticipated to shift from being primarily petroleum-based to exploring bio-based alternatives due to environmental concerns. The applications of adipic acid are expanding into electronics and industrial products. Innovations and regulatory shifts continue to shape the market development and diversification.

The adipic acid market is experiencing significant expansion due to the ongoing production and marketing of bio-based adipic acid, which addresses the growing environmental concerns and aligns with worldwide efforts to reduce carbon emissions. This innovation attracts industries aiming to replace traditional petrochemical inputs with greener alternatives. Moreover, the rising demand for adipic acid in the manufacturing of plasticizers and lubricants is offering a favorable market outlook, particularly as these items are vital for improving the flexibility and durability of polymers used in multiple sectors. Adipic acid is being utilized in the consumer electronics industry, with components like casings and connectors benefiting from the compound’s strength and thermal stability. Technological innovations also refine the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of adipic acid production, making it more competitive and accessible across diverse industries. Additionally, increased investments in R&D activities are driving the discovery of new applications and process improvements, keeping the market dynamic and forward-moving.

Adipic acid, or hexanedioic acid (CH2)4(COOH)2, is a slightly soluble, organic white crystalline compound that is commercially formulated by oxidizing the combination of cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone, also known as ketone alcohol oil (KA oil), with nitric acid. It can be further synthesized through a two-stage carbonylation reaction of butadiene, carbon monoxide (CO), and methanol, which further helps produce dimethyl adipate. Adipic acid is corrosive, highly flammable, stable, and an acidulant and exhibits various chemical and mechanical properties. Based on these characteristics, adipic acid is widely used in the manufacturing of diverse home furnishing products, including cushioning materials, bedding foam, furniture, and carpet underlays to improve the comfort and durability of the furniture. Apart from this, adipic acid finds extensive application in the production of nylon 66 and polyurethanes as a reactant to fabricate plasticizers, lubricant components, polyester polyols, and feedstocks, including benzene, ammonia, and cyclohexane.

Adipic Acid Market Trends:

Rising construction activities

Increasing construction activities are positively influencing the market. As per industry reports, the size of the construction market was estimated to be around USD 13.57 Trillion in 2024. Adipic acid plays a vital role in the production of nylon 6,6 and polyurethane, which are extensively employed in building and infrastructure projects. These materials are known for their durability, flexibility, and resistance to wear and corrosion, making them ideal for insulation, flooring, sealants, and protective coatings in construction. As spending on residential, commercial, and industrial infrastructure is growing, the need for high-performance construction materials is rising. Additionally, rising emphasis on energy-optimized and long-lasting structures is increasing the preference for materials containing adipic acid derivatives.

Thriving automotive sector

The expansion of the automotive sector is offering a favorable market outlook. With increasing vehicle production, the demand for adipic acid due to its essential role in the production of nylon 6,6 is high. As per the IBEF, in December 2024, the overall output of passenger vehicles, three-wheelers, two-wheelers, and quadricycles reached 19,21,268 units. Adipic acid-based nylon provides high strength, durability, and heat resistance, making it suitable for various automotive components like engine covers, radiator end tanks, airbags, seat fabrics, and under-the-hood parts. Moreover, the ongoing shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is catalyzing the demand, as manufacturers are seeking advanced materials for battery housings and insulation. With automakers focusing on innovation and durability, the use of adipic acid-derived products in design and engineering processes is rising.

Increasing demand in packaging industry

Adipic acid serves as an important component in the development of flexible and durable plastic materials. It is used in the manufacturing of polyurethanes and nylon, which are widely applied in food packaging films, industrial wraps, and container linings. As per the IMARC Group, the global food packaging market size was valued at USD 405.44 Billion in 2024. As the need for efficient, lightweight, and resilient packaging solutions is increasing, especially with the rise of e-commerce and food delivery services, manufacturers are turning to adipic acid-based materials for their strength, resistance to chemicals, and versatility. Additionally, the shift towards sustainable and recyclable packaging is also supporting the market growth, as adipic acid-derived materials are often compatible with advanced processing technologies.

Key Growth Drivers of Adipic Acid Market:

Growing production of bio-based adipic acid

The development of bio-based adipic acid is expanding the adipic acid market value. As industries and individuals are conscious about environmental impact, there is rising demand for materials that reduce carbon emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. Bio-based adipic acid, produced from renewable sources like glucose and plant-based feedstocks, aligns with worldwide sustainability goals and regulatory pressures to lower industrial pollution. It appeals to manufacturers in automotive, textiles, and packaging who are transitioning towards greener production practices. Furthermore, it supports innovations in biodegradable polymers and bio-nylon, opening new market opportunities. With companies investing in bio-refining technologies and scaling production, bio-based adipic acid not only enhances environmental credibility but also strengthens the competitive edge of businesses adopting sustainable solutions.

Increasing usage in plasticizers and lubricants

Adipic acid is an important raw material in the manufacturing of certain plasticizers that impart flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance to plastics used in construction, automotive, and consumer goods. Its application in lubricants enhances thermal stability, reduces wear, and improves performance in both automotive and industrial machinery. As industries continue to demand high-performance materials with improved safety and efficiency, adipic acid-based formulations are becoming more preferred. Additionally, the encouragement for environment friendly and non-phthalate plasticizers has led to increased interest in adipic acid derivatives. With rising manufacturing activity and the ongoing infrastructure development, the demand for high-quality lubricants and plasticizers continues to expand, reinforcing adipic acid’s vital role and propelling the market growth.

Rising expenditure on R&D activities

High spending on R&D activities are bolstering the growth of the market. Companies and research institutions are focusing on developing advanced production methods that are more sustainable, cost-effective, and environment friendly. This includes innovations like bio-based adipic acid, which helps reduce dependence on petroleum-based sources and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. R&D also supports the creation of adipic acid variants with improved performance characteristics for use in high-end applications, such as automotive parts, construction materials, and electronics. Continuous innovations are enhancing product quality, broadening application scope, and improving competitiveness in international markets. Furthermore, R&D enables compliance with stringent environmental regulations and meets user demand for greener products. As a result, robust research efforts are contributing significantly to expanding the adipic acid market by opening new opportunities and ensuring long-term industrial relevance.

Key Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global adipic acid market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on end product, application, and end user.

End Product Insights:

• Nylon 66 Fibers
• Nylon 66 Engineering Resins
• Polyurethanes
• Adipate Esters
• Others

A detailed breakup and analysis of the adipic acid market based on the end product has also been provided in the adipic acid market report. This includes nylon 66 fibers, nylon 66 engineering resins, polyurethanes, adipate esters, and others. According to the report, nylon 66 fibers accounted for the largest market share

Application Insights:

• Plasticizers
• Unsaturated Polyester Resins
• Wet Paper Resins
• Coatings
• Synthetic Lubricants
• Food Additives
• Others

The report has also provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the adipic acid market based on the application. This includes plasticizers, unsaturated polyester resins, wet paper resins, coatings, synthetic lubricants, food additives, and others. According to the report, plasticizers represented the largest segment.

End User Insights:

• Automotive
• Electrical and Electronics
• Textiles
• Food and Beverage
• Personal Care
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others

A detailed breakup and analysis of the adipic acid market based on the end user has also been provided in the report. This includes automotive, electrical and electronics, textiles, food and beverage, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and others. According to the report, automotive accounted for the largest market share.

Regional Insights:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets that include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and Middle East and Africa. According to the report, the Asia Pacific was the largest market for adipic acid. Some of the factors driving the Asia Pacific adipic acid market included its rapid expansion in the electronics sector and the increasing purchase of compact consumer electronic products with superior functionality, such as smartphones, laptops and tablets etc.

Competitive Landscape:

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the global adipic acid market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the companies covered include Asahi Kasei Corporation, Ascend Performance Materials, BASF SE, Domo Chemicals, Invista (Koch Industries), Lanxess AG, Radici Partecipazioni SpA, Solvay S.A., Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd., Tangshan Zhonghao Chemical Co. Ltd., TCI Chemicals (India) Pvt. Ltd., Tian Li High & New Tech Co. Ltd., etc. Kindly note that this only represents a partial list of companies, and the complete list has been provided in the report.

Adipic Acid Market News:

• June 2025: The Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM) announced a new batch of methodology approvals under its Core Carbon Principles (CCP) designation. Three methods, two Adipic Acid Production Procedures, and one Clean Cookstove were identified as meeting the ICVCM's stringent criteria, based on certain conditions. To decrease leakage risk, credits granted under the ‘US Adipic Acid Production Protocol’ required that production levels remain within the limits of the facility’s Title V permit.
• November 2024: Toray Industries teamed up with leading Thai petrochemical manufacturer PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited (GC) to investigate large-scale manufacturing technology for adipic acid derived from non-edible biomass. Toray and GC would establish a supply chain to produce Thousands of metric Tons of bio-based adipic acid from agricultural residues in Thailand. The acid would be utilized to manufacture environment friendly nylon-6,6, supporting initiatives aimed at establishing a circular economy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Report Coverage:

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global adipic acid market performed so far and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global adipic acid market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive adipic acid markets?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the end product?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the application?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the end user?
• What is the competitive structure of the global adipic acid market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global adipic acid market?

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the adipic acid market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global adipic acid market.
• The study maps the leading as well as the fastest growing regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the adipic acid industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.