Significant usage of bio-based, high-performance absorption polymers in adult incontinence products, disposable diapers, and agriculture applications is likely to boost the industry growth over the forecast period. Feminine hygiene sector is also anticipated to provide unique opportunities for these environment-friendly polymers over the next few years, according to the report.

The report, entitled Biodegradable Superabsorbent Materials Market Analysis By Product (Polyvinyl Alcohol, Polyitaconic Acid, Polyacrylamide, Polysaccharides), By Application (Disposable Diapers, Adult Incontinence Products, Female Hygiene Products, Agriculture, Medical) And Segment Forecasts To 2024 was published in October and contains industry analysis categorised by regions and market segments, looking at the period from 2013-2024.

Product insights

In 2015, polyvinyl alcohol was the largest segment, which accounted for 68.2% of the volume share. Constant effort is being undertaken by various companies to produce superabsorbent decomposable polymeric products, which is expected to broaden its application scope over the next eight years.

Polyvinyl alcohol has excellent water retention abilities, owing to which it is widely used for liquid absorption applications such as baby diapers and adult incontinence products. The personal care and infant care segments are expected to be exceptionally essential for these superabsorbent materials as there is a wide scope of application in this sector.

Polyitaconic acid and polyacrylamide are other major products segments which are projected to foresee CAGR at 8.2% and 9%, respectively, on account of its high absorption property.

Regional insights

Europe was the largest market accounting for 33.3% of the global volume in 2015. Stringent regulations regarding the use of synthetic polymers for manufacturing personal care and other medical hygiene products is anticipated to provide considerable scope for the industry in the future. This scenario is likely to reflect especially in Germany, UK, and France among other countries in the region.

Asia Pacific is projected to witness significant volume growth at the fastest CAGR of 10% from 2016 to 2024. The personal care and hygiene sector will be a crucial market for biodegradable superabsorbent materials. India and China have witnessed a tremendous increase in the infant populace over the past decade, which is expected to drive the demand for the product over the forecast period. Similar developments are projected to be witnessed in Latin America during the forecast period.

Demand

The demand for biodegradable superabsorbent polymers was 42 kilo tons in 2015 and is projected to witness robust growth in numerous applications owing to its superior absorption rate, biodegradability, and biocompatibility with the human skin.

In addition, companies are focusing on innovation to develop water retaining polymeric compounds in agricultural applications as well. Companies such as Exotech Bio Solutions and Itaconix Corporation manufacture eco-friendly superabsorbent polymers targeting personal hygiene, infant care, and agriculture industries.

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