01 Industry participants are shifting from more hazardous to safer types, moving away from lower molecular weight E-series glycol ethers toward P-series glycol ethers. P-series glycol ethers are generally seen as having lower toxicity and better safety profiles. For Instance, Dow markets its DOWANOL P-series glycol ethers as safer, high-performance options for cleaning, coatings, and electronics applications.Growing R&D investment into bio-based glycol ethers from renewable sources to meet sustainability goals. For Instance, LyondellBasell produces bio-derived glycol ethers for the cosmetics and personal care industry, which are made from renewable sources like biomass and sugarcane, using a certified mass balance methodology under their +LC (Low Carbon) and circular & renewable portfolios.
01 Source: Straits Research Analysis The U.S. is one of the prominent countries in the production of cosmetics. In the first half of 2025, the U.S. prestige beauty market grew by 2% to USD 16 billion. The growth in the cosmetics industry will increase the demand for glycol ethers globally.Glycol Ethers are gaining traction in various industries, but certain alternative products can impose similar applications as glycol ethers. For example, 2-Methyl-1,3-propanediol (MPO) is also used as a solvent to dissolve resins, pigments, and additives in both solvent-borne and waterborne systems, creating uniform mixtures. 2-Methyl-1,3-propanediol (MPO) is not considered a harmful chemical like glycol ethers, as it has a low toxicity hazard, low potential for skin sensitization, and low risk to the environment. The 2 Methyl-1,3-propanediol (MPO) will act as a substitute for glycol ethers and will be a restraining factor for the glycol ethers market.Glycol Ethers are used in the electronics and semiconductor industries for precision cleaning, semiconductor fabrication, and electronic assembly, serving as solvents and cleaning agents for contaminants and fluxes. Their high-purity grades are crucial for maintaining the cleanliness, performance, and reliability of electronic components.Japan is one of the prominent countries in the production of the Electronics sector.Japanese firms, including Isuzu and Sojitz, will be backed with USD 679 million to develop electronics, semiconductors, and EV supply chains across Southeast Asia.
March 2026 LyondellBasell expanded production capacity for glycol ethers to address increasing demand from coatings, printing inks, electronics, and household cleaning product manufacturers. The investment improves global supply reliability.
November 2025 Eastman Chemical launched high-purity glycol ether products offering improved solvency, lower emissions, and enhanced compatibility with water-based formulations. The products support sustainable industrial manufacturing.
September 2025 BASF expanded its glycol ether product portfolio with advanced solvent technologies designed for paints, coatings, electronics, and cleaning applications. The expansion strengthens its specialty chemicals business.
June 2025 Dow introduced new low-VOC glycol ether solvents for coatings, industrial cleaners, and specialty chemical applications. The products improve formulation performance while supporting compliance with evolving environmental regulations.