Adipic Acid Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Applications (Polyurethane, Nylon 6,6 Fiber, Nylon 6,6 Resin, Adipate Esters, Others), By End Users (Automotive, Electrical & Electronics, Packaging & Consumer Goods, Building & Construction, Textile) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2025-2033

Adipic Acid Market Size

The global adipic acid market size was valued at USD 7.74 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach from USD 8.04 billion in 2025 to USD 11.51 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.58% over the forecast period (2025-33). 

Adipic acid is also known as hexanedioic acid, an organic compound with the formula (CH2)4(COOH)2. It is produced by oxidation of a mixture of cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol called KA oil, an abbreviation for ketone-alcohol oil. Early in the reaction, the cyclohexanol is converted to the ketone, releasing nitrous acid. Beet juice naturally contains a dibasic carboxylic acid called adipic acid. Adipic acid is used in manufacturing plasticizers, lubricant components, and polyester polyols for polyurethane systems. The acid and its derivatives are also used in the food industry (as gelling aid, acidulant, flavoring, leavening, and buffering reagents) and for preparing pesticides, dyes, textile treatment agents, fungicides, and pharmaceuticals.

The global market is expanding due to the growing demand for nylon 6,6, which is widely used in automotive, textile, and industrial applications. Increasing automotive production and the shift toward lightweight materials to improve fuel efficiency are key drivers. It is also crucial in the polyurethane and coatings industries, further boosting its market growth. Stringent regulations and sustainability initiatives encourage research into greener production methods, such as microbial fermentation and renewable feedstocks. Furthermore, the development of sustainable adipic acid production technologies, expansion in emerging economies, and increasing applications in high-performance polymers. Innovations in bio-based alternatives and circular economy strategies, such as recycling nylon waste, are also expected to drive long-term market growth.

Latest Market Trends

Growing demand for nylon production and shifting towards bio-based adipic acid

Adipic acid serves as a key raw material in the production of nylon 6,6, widely used in textiles, automotive, electronics, and industrial manufacturing industries. The demand for nylon-based materials is on the rise, particularly in automotive lightweighting applications, high-performance fabrics, and consumer goods, driving the growth of the global market.

Additionally, the shift towards bio-based adipic acid is gaining momentum as industries seek sustainable alternatives to petroleum-derived products. Developing bio-based adipic acid from renewable feedstocks such as lignocellulosic biomass, corn, and sugarcane aligns with global sustainability initiatives and regulatory pressures. With stringent carbon reduction goals set by the EU and the U.S., manufacturers are increasingly investing in green production technologies.

• For instance, in August 2022, Toray Industries, Inc. (Japan) developed the world’s first 100% bio-based adipic acid, utilizing sugars derived from inedible biomass. The innovative process combines microbial fermentation with advanced chemical purification technologies, setting a benchmark for sustainable adipic acid production.

Adipic Acid Market Growth Factors

Development of Nylon 66 in automobile component production

The rising demand for nylon 6,6 in the automotive sector is a crucial driver of the global market. The increasing use of lightweight materials in vehicle manufacturing to improve fuel efficiency and meet stringent carbon emission regulations has increased demand for high-performance engineering plastics like nylon 6,6.

• According to the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), the automotive components market grew at a CAGR of 8.63% from 2016 to 2024, reaching a valuation of USD 74.1 billion. In 2023–2024, the sector recorded a USD 300 million trade surplus, reflecting strong market momentum.

Furthermore, regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the European Commission have mandated a 30% reduction in CO₂ emissions for new passenger vehicles by 2030. This regulation has led automakers to integrate lighter, more durable materials like nylon 6,6 into vehicle design. In 2023, Ascend Performance Materials, a leading nylon 6,6 producer, expanded its adipic acid production capacity in North America to meet the rising demand from the automotive, electronics, and textile industries.

Moreover, the rising investment in electric vehicles (EVs) and the adoption of high-performance polyamide composites further bolster the adipic acid market, positioning it as a vital component in next-generation mobility solutions.

Restraining Factors

Environmental hazards of adipic acid: impact and regulations

Despite its widespread use, adipic acid production poses environmental risks, primarily due to the release of nitrous oxide (N₂O), a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential 300 times higher than CO₂. The environmental concerns associated with its production have led to stringent regulatory frameworks to reduce emissions and promote sustainable manufacturing. According to the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, prolonged exposure to adipic acid may cause skin irritation, eye damage, and long-term respiratory issues. Furthermore, leakage into water sources can disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

• For example, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has implemented strict emission control measures for adipic acid manufacturers, requiring them to reduce nitrous oxide emissions by 50% by 2030.

As a result, in 2023, BASF and Invista adopted catalytic reduction technologies to minimize N₂O emissions from their adipic acid production plants. BASF's "Low Emission Adipic Acid" initiative will cut CO₂-equivalent emissions by 60% by 2025. While these regulations are necessary for environmental sustainability, they pose challenges, such as higher production costs and stricter compliance requirements, potentially restraining market expansion.

Market Opportunity

Growing development of bio-based adipic acid

The increasing focus on sustainability and circular economy practices presents a significant opportunity for bio-based adipic acid production. With renewable feedstocks offering a viable alternative to petroleum-derived adipic acid, companies are scaling up bio-based manufacturing to cater to the evolving regulatory and consumer landscape. The European Union’s Green Deal has set a target to reduce industrial carbon emissions by 55% by 2030, encouraging manufacturers to transition to bio-based and recycled chemical products.

• For instance, BASF has expanded its bio-based adipic acid capacity by constructing a new hexamethylene diamine (HMD) plant in Chalampé, France, with an expected annual output of 260,000 metric tons by 2024.
• RadiciGroup has initiated multiple bio-based adipic acid projects targeting the European and North American markets, leveraging sugar-based fermentation technologies to reduce CO₂ emissions by 70% compared to traditional methods.

Additionally, in 2024, Sumitomo Chemical partnered with leading research institutions to develop an enzymatic conversion process for adipic acid, reducing reliance on fossil fuel feedstocks. This rapid transition toward bio-based solutions positions adipic acid manufacturers at the forefront of green chemistry innovation, opening new revenue streams in the sustainable polymer industry.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific: Dominant region with robust market growth

Asia-Pacific remains the dominant global market region, driven by robust industrial activity in China and India. China continues to be the largest producer and consumer, with government policies supporting domestic manufacturing.

• In 2024, China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) announced a five-year plan to develop bio-based chemicals, incentivizing local producers to adopt eco-friendly production methods.

Conversely, India is witnessing rapid industrialization, with companies like Reliance Industries investing in production. The region's growing demand for textiles, automotive parts, and consumer goods is fueling market expansion.

Europe: Rapid expansion fueled by emerging markets

Europe is experiencing a rapid shift towards sustainability, with stringent EU regulations pushing the industry towards bio-based and recyclable materials. Germany and France are leading this transition, with BASF and DSM announcing increased investment in sustainable adipic acid production.

• In June 2024, the European Commission introduced new regulations to reduce carbon footprints in the chemical sector, encouraging companies to adopt bio-based alternatives.

Government initiatives like Germany’s Green Chemicals Initiative further boost regional growth.

Countries Insights

• United States: Growing demand for sustainable and bio-based adipic acid is driving market expansion in the U.S. The U.S. is investing heavily in sustainable production. In partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, Invista has launched a $50 million project to develop bio-based alternatives, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
• Germany: Stringent environmental regulations and carbon reduction targets are accelerating sustainable production in Germany. Germany remains at the forefront of sustainable chemical manufacturing. In 2024, BASF announced a strategic initiative to cut emissions from adipic acid production by 40% through advanced carbon capture technologies.
• China: China's focus on industrial expansion and green manufacturing policies fuels the market. Government-backed initiatives to promote green manufacturing reinforce China’s continued dominance in the adipic acid market. The NDRC’s five-year plan emphasizes bio-based chemicals, accelerating the transition from traditional petroleum-based adipic acid.
• India: India’s market is expanding due to increased demand from the textile and automotive industries. Rising demand from the textile and automotive industries is propelling adipic acid consumption in India. Reliance Industries has announced plans to establish a new adipic acid production facility by 2025, catering to growing domestic demand.
• France: The EU’s strict carbon neutrality goals are pushing France to become a leader in bio-based chemical production. France is emerging as a leader in bio-based chemical production, with DSM and Arkema investing in sustainable adipic acid production to meet the EU’s stringent carbon reduction targets.
• Italy: Italy’s focus on sustainability has led to increased imports of bio-based adipic acid. Italy’s commitment to sustainability and circular economy initiatives drives its market growth. RadiciGroup, a key industry player, has announced new investments in green manufacturing, further strengthening Italy’s position in the market.
• Japan: Advancements in green chemistry and government support for R&D fuel Japan’s adipic acid market innovation. Japan is leveraging advanced research in green chemistry to develop innovative adipic acid production methods. Sumitomo Chemical has launched a new initiative in collaboration with academia to create bio-based adipic acid solutions by 2026.

Adipic Acid Market Segmentation Analysis

By Applications

The nylon 6,6 fiber application segment dominated the market. The increasing use of nylon 6, 6 as a metal alternative in electrical and electronic devices and other industries is responsible for its large market share. Engineering parts like gears, nuts, bolts, bearings, powder tool casings, rivets & wheels, and rocker box covers are also frequently made of nylon 6.6 fiber. In the upcoming years, it is anticipated that the qualities of nylon 6,6 fiber, such as its resistance to moisture and mildew, high melting temperature, exceptional durability, and enhanced strength, will propel its employment in various applications.

By End-Users

The automotive category dominated the market. Nylon 66, which is derived from adipic acid, is widely used in the automobile industry due to its remarkable mechanical, temperature-resistant, and lightweight properties. Adipic acid is used as a monomer to make polyamide 6.6 pellets, other polyamides or polymers for engineering plastics, and polyurethane for flexible and semi-rigid foams. Nonetheless, the consumer products and packaging industry gained a sizable portion of the market. These include smoked salmon, cheese, and other dairy items, partially prepared microwaveable meals, and processed meats (bacon, sausage). It's very easy to recycle these films. The ban on single-use plastics is expected to boost market share over the forecast period.

Company Market Share

Well-known companies, including BASF SE, Ascend Performance Materials, INVISTA, LANXESS, and Solvay, control a large portion of the consolidated market. These big companies compete on several fronts: pricing, product quality, vertical integration, technological innovation, and expanding their geographic reach. Their main tactics center on maximizing manufacturing efficiency, creating environmentally friendly processes, and preserving their dominant positions along the value chain.

BASF SE: An emerging player

The primary chemical manufacturer in the world is BASF SE, an acronym for its previous name, Badische Anilin und Sodafabrik, a multinational company based in Europe. Germany's Ludwigshafen is home to the company's headquarters. In addition to operating six integrated manufacturing sites and 390 more manufacturing locations in Europe, Asia, Australia, the Americas, and Africa, BASF has subsidiaries and joint ventures in more than 80 countries. To enhance BASF's polyamide capabilities with unique and well-known products like Technyl, BASF SE announced in January 2020 that it would acquire Solvay's polyamide division. This acquisition has also allowed BASF to provide its clients with even more advanced plastics solutions, such as e-mobility and autonomous driving.

Recent Developments

• December 2024- Ascend Performance Materials began operating a new thermal reduction facility at Pensacola, Florida. According to the corporation, this action will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the manufacture of adipic acid at this site by about 98%. The action was a component of the company's 2030 vision campaign, emphasizing the sustainable production of chemicals.

Analyst Opinion

As per our analyst, the global adipic acid market is experiencing strong growth driven by rising demand from the automotive, textile, and plastics industries. However, environmental concerns and regulatory restrictions challenge traditional production methods, necessitating a shift toward bio-based alternatives.

With significant investments in sustainable manufacturing, technological advancements, and government support for green chemistry, the future of adipic acid production is expected to be increasingly eco-friendly and innovation-driven. Market players actively explore bio-based adipic acid solutions, ensuring long-term growth while aligning with global sustainability goals.

Companies such as Toray and BASF are leading the transition to bio-based adipic acid, highlighting significant opportunities for sustainable market expansion. As regulatory frameworks tighten and sustainability initiatives gain traction, the adipic acid market is poised for a transformative phase, with bio-based alternatives playing a pivotal role in future growth.