Introduction
Water Treatment Chemicals market is poised for significant growth, projected to reach approximately USD 79 billion by 2033, up from USD 37 billion in 2023, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2033. This expansion is driven by the increasing need for clean and safe water across various sectors, including industrial processes, municipal water supply, and wastewater treatment. Key growth factors include escalating water pollution levels, rising industrial activities, and stringent regulatory requirements for water quality.
Challenges in the market include the high cost of advanced water treatment technologies and fluctuating raw material prices, which impact the overall cost of water treatment chemicals. Furthermore, the market is experiencing a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly chemicals, driven by growing environmental awareness and regulatory pressure.
Recent developments highlight significant advancements in the sector. For example, companies are increasingly investing in research and development to create innovative and more effective water treatment solutions. Notable players in the market, such as Ecolab Inc., BASF SE, and Dow Inc., are spearheading efforts to enhance chemical formulations and improve efficiency in water treatment processes.
SUEZ has recently expanded its portfolio in the water treatment chemicals sector with a focus on advanced water technologies and sustainable solutions. In 2023, SUEZ acquired the water treatment business of the Israeli company, AquaHorizon, which specializes in advanced oxidation processes. This acquisition enhances SUEZ’s capabilities in providing innovative solutions for industrial water treatment. Additionally, SUEZ has launched new chemical formulations aimed at improving water recycling and reuse in industrial applications. The company’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its development of eco-friendly chemicals that reduce environmental impact while ensuring high efficiency in water treatment processes.
BASF SE has been actively involved in expanding its water treatment chemicals segment through both innovation and strategic partnerships. In 2024, BASF launched a new line of biodegradable flocculants designed to improve water clarification processes while minimizing environmental impact. BASF has also partnered with HydroChem, a leading water treatment technology provider, to integrate their advanced polymer technologies into BASF’s chemical offerings. This collaboration aims to enhance water quality management solutions across various sectors, including municipal water systems and industrial facilities. BASF’s investments in R&D are focused on developing next-generation water treatment chemicals that meet stringent regulatory requirements and address evolving market needs.
Key Takeaways
- Market Growth Projection: The global water treatment chemicals market is anticipated to grow from USD 37.7 billion in 2023 to around USD 62.0 billion by 2033, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.1%.
- Product Types and Usage: Coagulants & Flocculants: Form a significant part of the market (over 38.1% revenue in 2023), crucial in oil and gas industries for wastewater treatment Biocides &
- Disinfectants: Important for maintaining manufacturing efficiency and treating wastewater in industries like sugar, ethanol, and water treatment.
- Region Analysis: North America: Holds a significant share (more than 32.2% in 2023) due to increased water treatment plants in the oil and gas sector.
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Statistics
- Good choices for pH adjusters include 93% sulfuric acid (diluted concentrations are corrosive), calcium oxide (lime), and magnesium hydroxide. Statistics prove close to 3.5 million people a year perish due to a lack of clean drinking water.
- The use of sulfuric acid for phosphate fertilizer manufacturing accounts for the majority of domestic consumption, historically estimated to range between 60-75% of domestic sulfuric acid consumption.
significant uses are industrial and agricultural chemical manufacturing, ore leaching, and petroleum refining accounting for a combined 35% (McCoy, 2008; NCBI, 2022). - Primary treatment can reduce BOD of the incoming industrial wastewater by around 20–30 % and the total suspended solids by some 50–65%. Well-designed and functioning secondary treatment can remove about 85–90% of the suspended solids and BOD.
- According to official data in Romania, 98.7% of the urban population and only 35.3% of the rural population are connected to the public water supply system, 89.5% of the urban population and only 9.9% of the rural population are connected to the public sewerage networks
- European countries indicate that in Romania 15.5% of the total water supply is used by the population, 62.5% is utilized by the industry, and 22% is used in agriculture (FAO, 2017). At the national level, 34.62% of wastewater (urban and industrial) is evacuated without treatment (INSE, 2018).
- organic compound removal, nitrification, and biological phosphorus removal at levels of 95.1%, 97%, and 99%, respectively. In the IFAS-MBSBBR, the efficiency of total nitrogen removal was 91.7%, whereas, in the SBR, it was 86.3%.
- The improvement of the total nitrogen and total phosphorus removal of more than 4.2%, and 2.0%, respectively, are noticed. BOD5 decreased by 5.8%.
Sodium aluminate is a combination of sodium oxide and aluminum oxide. Solid forms of this chemical usually contain 70-80% sodium aluminate, while liquid forms contain around 30% sodium aluminate. - An estimated 38354 million litres per day (MLD) sewage is generated in major cities of India, but the sewage treatment capacity is only of 11786 MLD. Similarly, only 60% of industrial waste water, mostly large-scale industries, is treated.
- At the plants, urban wastewater normally undergoes a biological treatment with a secondary settlement or other process. This results in a biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) removal of at least 70 %, and a chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal of at least b.
- Bond 5015 had the immediate positive effect of reducing corrosion rates up to 30%. Coupled with consistent alkalinity reduction, the Bond 5015 has also helped to maintain a much cleaner tower fill media.
The plant has operated without shut-down, has avoided all fines and stands in excellent citizenship within its community. This customer is now experiencing a reduction of water use and associated costs of over 50%. - Plant assets are better protected now as corrosion rates have improved by as much as 30%. By making smarter use of the water supply, the overall chemical-spend for chemical inhibitors has been reduced by 10%.
- cleaner cooling tower media and basins translate to a 50% decrease in plant cleaning cycles and has resulted in reduced labor applications.
- The estimated regression coefficient for PC2 is statistically significant at the 5% level of probability. The estimated relationship between chemical water treatment costs and PC2 shows that there is a positive relationship between the raw water temperature and chemical water treatment costs.
- The R2 statistics for the two regression models were 61.4% using the data for Zuikerbosch and 59.9% using the data for Balkfontein, suggesting that both models have reasonable levels of predictive power.
treatment costs at Zuikerbosch can be expected to increase by 0.297% per megalitre. - To illustrate, UN Water stats suggest that, on average, high-income economies treat about 70% of the generated wastewater. The ratio stands at 28% in lower-middle-income countries and 38% in upper-middle-income countries.
- India Brand Equity Foundation, textile and apparel exports comprising handicrafts in the country reached US$44.4 billion in FY22, recording a 41% growth year-over-year. In addition, readymade garments exports, including cotton accessories, were valued at US$6.19 billion in FY22.
- In fact, in 2020 China set up 39,000 new wastewater treatment facilities and plans to increase sewage treatment capacity by 20 million cubic meters/day and renovate or build 80,000 km of sewage collection pipeline networks during 2021-2025, says the China National Bureau of Statistics.
- The district covers 85,499 hectares of land area and the topography feature of the district is 43.7% level (flat), 8.45% mountainous, and 48.08% valley.
Commercial (70%) analytical grade by mass, granulated calcium hypochlorite (Ca(OCl)2) was an effective option for the chlorine disinfection process.
Calcium hypochlorous chemical as a solid form 70% by mass concentration obtained from the regional water resource office applied in chemical water treatments. From 70% by mass concentration. - The aeration in the biological treatment normally accounts for 30-50% of the electricity use at Swedish sewage treatment plants. We work to try to reduce the need for aeration, but also try to make the aeration more efficient.
- Now 70% of the industrial zones had not wastewater treatment facilities, 90% of productive enterprises will waste directly into the landfill. Each year over 12757 enterprises and 186 industrial zones produce 220000 tons of industrial waste, industrial waste water of 47.2 million cubic meters.
- Vietnam every year, 30% of the water is acidic, in some regions of the northern part of the country even reached 50%. Vietnamese business newspaper, reported on December 31, 2009, according to preliminary statistics, in 2009, 1300 organizations, 4545 cases in violation of environmental laws rose by 400%.
- In most countries, health facilities are less than 50%, and in some countries less than 10%. The daily water consumption each person in Africa is only 20 L (The minimum daily water consumption each person proposed by the UN is 50 L). The amount of water treated with water treatment chemicals is less than 5%.
- The current production value of poly aluminum chloride in Africa is about 322 million RMB if all domestic drinking water treatment uses poly aluminum chloride as a coagulant.
Africa is the second-largest continent in the world, with a land area of 20.4% of the global area. The population is over 1.1 billion, of which the urban population is about 400 million. Africa is the region with the lowest level of urbanization in the world, with an urbanization level of only 40%.
urbanization has grown very fast, reaching an average annual rate of 3.5%. It is predicted that the urban population of Africa will account for 50% of the total population in 2030. 60% will be reached in 2050. - The global water treatment market demand in 2018 is shown in the pie chart. As can be seen from the pie chart, the demand for water treatment chemicals in Africa and the Middle East is only 5%.
Africa and the Middle East is still small, only $1.21 billion. Its water treatment chemicals mainly rely on imports. And the total population of Africa is 1.1 billion. It can be seen that the water treatment agent in Africa has a large gap and has great development potential. - US EPA, over 1 billion gallons of untreated sewage and industrial waste are released into US waters annually – enough to fill more than 1500 Olympic-sized swimming pools daily. That’s equivalent to filling over 1500 Olympic-sized swimming pools every day.
- implemented at a building level, like an airflush toilet which can reduce the amount of potable water that’s consumed by 75%. Or the use of robotics and sensors in pipes to detect and repair leaks in the network.
Emerging Trends
Increased Focus on Sustainability and Green Chemistry: There is a growing emphasis on sustainable practices within the water treatment chemicals market. Companies are increasingly investing in green chemistry, developing biodegradable and eco-friendly chemicals to reduce environmental impact. The rise in regulatory pressures and consumer demand for sustainable solutions is driving this trend. For example, the development of bio-based polymers and organic flocculants is becoming more common, aimed at minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and enhancing water treatment efficiency.
Advancements in Smart Water Technologies: Smart technologies are revolutionizing water treatment processes. The integration of IoT (Internet of Things) and real-time monitoring systems is enabling more precise and efficient water management. Sensors and data analytics are being used to optimize chemical dosing, predict maintenance needs, and improve overall system performance. These advancements help reduce operational costs and improve water quality control, as seen in innovations like automated chemical feeders and advanced water quality sensors.
Growing Demand for Water Reuse and Recycling: The need for water reuse and recycling is becoming more pronounced due to increasing water scarcity and stringent regulations. Industries and municipalities are adopting advanced treatment technologies to recycle and reuse water. Technologies such as membrane filtration, advanced oxidation processes, and zero-liquid discharge systems are gaining traction. This shift is driven by both environmental concerns and the need to reduce operational costs associated with water procurement and treatment.
Expansion in Emerging Markets: Emerging economies are experiencing rapid industrialization and urbanization, leading to increased demand for water treatment chemicals. Countries like India, China, and Brazil are investing heavily in improving their water infrastructure and treatment capabilities. This trend is creating significant growth opportunities for water treatment chemical manufacturers in these regions. The expansion is supported by government initiatives and rising awareness about the importance of water quality and safety.
Innovations in Chemical Formulations: There is a continuous push towards developing more effective and specialized chemical formulations. Innovations in polymers, coagulants, and disinfectants are aimed at enhancing performance in diverse water treatment applications. For instance, the development of new generation coagulants that work efficiently across a wide range of pH levels and temperatures is becoming a key focus. This trend addresses the need for tailored solutions in various industrial and municipal water treatment scenarios.
Integration of AI and Machine Learning: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning are increasingly being integrated into water treatment processes. These technologies are being used to analyze large volumes of data, optimize chemical dosing, and predict system failures. AI-driven models help in improving decision-making processes and enhancing the overall efficiency of water treatment operations. This trend is helping companies to manage complex water treatment challenges more effectively.
Use Cases
Industrial Water Treatment: Water treatment chemicals are essential in various industrial processes, including power generation, manufacturing, and mining. In power plants, chemicals are used for boiler water treatment to prevent scaling and corrosion, thereby extending equipment life and improving efficiency. For example, companies like Ecolab provide scale inhibitors and corrosion control chemicals, which help in reducing maintenance costs and downtime. The industrial segment is a significant market driver, contributing approximately 40% of the global demand for water treatment chemicals.
Municipal Water Treatment: Municipalities use water treatment chemicals to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water. Chemicals such as coagulants, disinfectants, and flocculants are employed to remove impurities and pathogens from water supplies. Chlorine and chlorine dioxide, for instance, are widely used for disinfection to prevent waterborne diseases. With increasing urbanization and population growth, the demand for these chemicals in municipal water treatment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2023 to 2033.
Wastewater Treatment: In wastewater treatment, chemicals are utilized to treat and purify effluents before discharge or reuse. Coagulants and flocculants aid in the removal of suspended solids, while biocides control microbial contamination. For example, Solenis provides a range of products designed to enhance the efficiency of wastewater treatment processes. The global wastewater treatment chemicals market is expanding, with an expected growth rate of 4.8% annually, driven by increasing regulatory requirements and industrial wastewater management needs.
Agricultural Water Treatment: Agricultural operations use water treatment chemicals to manage irrigation water quality and control pests. Chemicals such as algaecides and herbicides are applied to prevent algae blooms and maintain clean water sources for irrigation. The use of water treatment chemicals in agriculture supports crop health and productivity, addressing water scarcity issues. The agricultural water treatment segment is expected to grow steadily, with an annual growth rate of around 4.2%, driven by advancements in agricultural practices and increasing water conservation efforts.
Beverage and Food Industry: In the food and beverage industry, water treatment chemicals are crucial for maintaining hygiene and quality standards. Sanitizers and disinfectants are used to clean equipment and ensure that water used in production processes is free from contaminants. Companies like BASF SE offer specialized chemicals that meet industry standards for food safety. This sector is experiencing robust growth, with an anticipated annual increase of 5.0% due to rising demand for safe and high-quality food and beverage products.
Oil and Gas Sector: Water treatment chemicals play a critical role in the oil and gas industry, particularly in hydraulic fracturing and water injection processes. Chemicals are used to manage water quality, control scaling, and prevent microbial growth in extraction and production operations. For instance, BASF SE provides solutions to enhance the efficiency of water used in hydraulic fracturing. The oil and gas water treatment chemicals market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% as the industry seeks to optimize resource management and improve environmental sustainability.
Key Players Analysis
BASF SE is a prominent player in the water treatment chemicals sector, offering a broad range of products designed to enhance water quality and efficiency in various applications. The company’s portfolio includes coagulants, flocculants, and scale inhibitors, which are crucial for industrial and municipal water treatment. BASF’s innovations focus on sustainable solutions, including advanced polymers and environmentally friendly chemicals. The company has also been expanding its reach through strategic acquisitions and partnerships to address growing global water treatment needs.
SUEZ is a leading company in the water treatment chemicals industry, known for its comprehensive solutions for water and wastewater management. The company provides a variety of products, including coagulants, disinfectants, and biocides, to enhance the safety and efficiency of water treatment processes. SUEZ is also recognized for its focus on sustainability, offering solutions that promote water conservation and reduce environmental impact. Recent innovations and strategic collaborations have bolstered SUEZ’s position in the market.
Ecolab is a leading player in the water treatment chemicals sector, known for its extensive portfolio of solutions designed to improve water quality and operational efficiency across various industries. The company provides innovative products for water purification, industrial water treatment, and municipal water management. Ecolab’s advanced solutions help clients reduce operational costs, enhance sustainability, and comply with regulatory standards. Notably, Ecolab has invested in expanding its offerings, including water treatment technologies and digital tools, to meet the growing demands of the market.
Solenis is a prominent provider of specialty chemicals for water treatment, focusing on enhancing industrial processes and wastewater management. The company offers a wide range of chemicals, including coagulants, flocculants, and biocides, tailored to improve water quality and efficiency in sectors such as pulp and paper, oil and gas, and municipal water systems. Solenis emphasizes innovation and sustainability in its product development, addressing both performance and environmental concerns. The company’s solutions are designed to optimize water usage and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Nouryon, a global specialty chemicals leader, plays a significant role in the water treatment chemicals sector. The company provides a range of products, including coagulants, flocculants, and biocides, which are crucial for municipal and industrial water treatment processes. Nouryon’s solutions are designed to enhance water quality, reduce operational costs, and ensure regulatory compliance. Recent advancements include the launch of innovative chemical formulations that improve efficiency in water purification and wastewater management.
Kemira Oyj is a prominent player in the water treatment chemicals market, offering a broad portfolio of products such as coagulants, flocculants, and process chemicals. The company focuses on providing sustainable and efficient solutions for both municipal and industrial water treatment applications. Kemira’s innovations include enhanced polymer technologies and eco-friendly chemical options designed to optimize water treatment processes. Their products are aimed at improving water quality, reducing environmental impact, and meeting stringent regulatory standards.
Dow Chemical Company is a key player in the water treatment chemicals sector, providing a wide range of products designed to address various water management needs. Dow’s offerings include advanced technologies for water filtration, scale control, and corrosion inhibition. Their products are used across diverse applications such as industrial water treatment, municipal water supplies, and wastewater management. Recently, Dow has focused on enhancing its portfolio with sustainable solutions to meet growing regulatory demands and environmental concerns.
SNF Group is a leading provider of water treatment chemicals, specializing in polymers and flocculants that improve water quality and treatment efficiency. Their products are widely used in municipal and industrial water treatment applications, including wastewater and sludge management. SNF Group is recognized for its innovations in polymer technology, which enhance the performance of water treatment processes. The company continues to expand its global footprint and invest in research to develop more efficient and eco-friendly solutions.
Cortec Corporation is a key player in the water treatment chemicals sector, specializing in environmentally friendly solutions. The company offers innovative products such as corrosion inhibitors and biocides, aimed at protecting industrial equipment and maintaining water quality. Cortec’s eco-friendly approach, highlighted by its use of green technologies and sustainable practices, aligns with the growing industry trend towards environmental responsibility. Their solutions are designed to enhance the efficiency and longevity of water systems while reducing environmental impact.
Buckman is a prominent name in the water treatment chemicals market, known for its advanced chemical solutions that address water system challenges across various industries. The company’s portfolio includes products for controlling scaling, corrosion, and microbial growth, with a focus on improving operational efficiency and water quality. Buckman’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions helps industries maintain optimal performance and adhere to regulatory standards. Their expertise supports the evolving needs of water treatment, enhancing both industrial and municipal water management.
Solvay S.A.: is a key player in the water treatment chemicals sector, offering a wide range of solutions for both industrial and municipal applications. The company provides advanced water treatment technologies, including coagulants, flocculants, and specialty polymers, designed to enhance water quality and operational efficiency. Solvay’s focus on sustainability and innovation has led to the development of eco-friendly products that address challenges such as scaling and corrosion.
Conclusion
This growth is driven by escalating water scarcity issues, stringent environmental regulations, and expanding industrial applications. The sector is seeing advancements in technology, with a notable shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. Key players like SUEZ, BASF SE, Ecolab, and Solenis are actively innovating and expanding their portfolios to meet rising demands. Challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs and regulatory complexities remain, but the overall market outlook remains positive, underpinned by increasing investments and technological advancements in water treatment solutions.
