Acrylonitrile Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Propylene Method, Propane Method), By Applications Covered (Acrylic Fibres, ABS and SAN resins, Acrylamide, NBR, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Acrylonitrile Market Size

The Acrylonitrile Market was valued at USD 12,385.67 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 12,794.39 Million in 2025, further increasing to USD 16,590.55 Million by 2033. This growth represents a CAGR of 3.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.

The US Acrylonitrile Market holds a significant share, driven by high demand across industries like automotive, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. The region’s robust industrial base and technological advancements contribute to its strong market growth.

The Acrylonitrile market is seeing substantial demand growth due to its essential role in the production of synthetic fibers, plastics, and other chemical intermediates. Acrylonitrile is widely used in manufacturing products such as acrylic fibers, ABS plastics, and carbon fibers. Acrylic fibers alone account for approximately 40-45% of the market share, driven by their use in textiles like carpets and apparel. With an increasing demand for lightweight materials in automotive and aerospace sectors, the market has gained significant traction, with automotive applications growing by 20%. Moreover, the pharmaceutical and textile industries have contributed greatly to this market expansion, with the pharmaceutical sector representing around 10-15% of the total demand. Acrylonitrile-based products find increasing applications in both sectors, further fueling growth. Emerging economies, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, are also anticipated to boost the demand for acrylonitrile products by approximately 25-30%, further shaping market trends.

Acrylonitrile Market Trends

The Acrylonitrile market is experiencing a notable shift toward sustainability, with manufacturers adopting eco-friendly production processes and focusing on reducing emissions. The demand for acrylic fibers has seen a steady increase, driven by the rising popularity of activewear and sports apparel, which are made from acrylic-based fabrics. As much as 35% of acrylonitrile is used in producing acrylic fibers, especially in emerging markets like Asia-Pacific, where consumer preferences for high-quality textiles continue to rise. Furthermore, ABS plastics—another significant application—are increasingly favored in electronics, automotive parts, and construction industries due to their lightweight and durable nature. The automotive sector has embraced acrylonitrile-based carbon fibers, which have gained a market share of over 20% in recent years, especially in electric vehicle manufacturing for weight reduction. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) polymers are utilized in home appliances, contributing another 10-12% to the market, reflecting their significance in day-to-day applications. Additionally, bio-based acrylonitrile is emerging as a key trend, as companies innovate to reduce reliance on fossil fuel-based production, aligning with global environmental policies.

Acrylonitrile Market Dynamics

The Acrylonitrile market dynamics are driven by several factors, including consumer demand for sustainable alternatives, changing regulations on chemical manufacturing, and advancements in production technologies. The shift toward green manufacturing processes has influenced acrylonitrile producers to explore more sustainable options, such as bio-based acrylonitrile, while meeting consumer demand for low-emission, high-performance materials. Demand for carbon fiber—a major acrylonitrile product—is rising due to its application in lightweight vehicles, with the automotive and aerospace industries actively adopting carbon fiber for its strength and low weight. As much as 22% of acrylonitrile is used in carbon fiber production, signifying its critical role in these industries. ABS plastics are also gaining importance due to their versatile use in electronics, home appliances, and automotive applications. However, challenges remain in terms of raw material costs, leading some producers to seek alternatives or innovative production methods to reduce dependency on oil-based feedstocks.

Drivers of Market Growth

"Rising demand for pharmaceuticals"

The pharmaceutical industry has become a major driver for the acrylonitrile market, with acrylonitrile used as an essential component in producing drug intermediates, pharmaceutical packaging, and medical devices. Around 18% of the total acrylonitrile production is consumed by this sector. This is largely due to the increasing demand for generic drugs, injectable medications, and surgical devices—all of which rely on acrylonitrile-based products for their production. Additionally, the growth of the biopharmaceutical sector and personalized medicine has opened up new opportunities for acrylonitrile-based solutions. As the global healthcare infrastructure expands in developing nations, the demand for pharmaceutical-grade acrylonitrile is expected to continue growing.

Market Restraints

"Environmental and health concerns"

One of the major restraints affecting the acrylonitrile market is the environmental and health concerns surrounding its production. Acrylonitrile is classified as a toxic chemical, and concerns about its hazardous emissions and potential health risks have led to stricter environmental regulations in many countries. As much as 15-18% of the global market share is impacted by these regulatory challenges, as companies must invest in advanced filtration systems and sustainable production practices to meet regulatory standards. The increasing pressure from environmental policies to reduce carbon emissions and water usage in chemical manufacturing is further adding to operational costs. This restraint is encouraging companies to explore greener technologies and bio-based alternatives to acrylonitrile, thus limiting the growth potential in certain markets.

Market Opportunities

"Growth in lightweight automotive materials"

The growth of the electric vehicle (EV) and aerospace industries presents a significant opportunity for the acrylonitrile market. The demand for carbon fiber and composite materials in these sectors is expected to rise due to the need for lightweight, fuel-efficient designs. Carbon fiber, produced from acrylonitrile, has gained traction in automotive and aerospace applications, accounting for 20-22% of the total acrylonitrile consumption. With governments and industries focusing on reducing vehicle emissions and promoting electric mobility, the demand for lightweight materials is set to increase, positioning acrylonitrile-based carbon fiber products for significant growth in the coming years. This shift in the automotive landscape presents ample market opportunities for acrylonitrile producers.

Market Challenges

"Volatility in raw material prices"

A major challenge in the acrylonitrile market is the volatility in raw material prices, especially propane and natural gas. As much as 40-45% of the production cost of acrylonitrile is tied to these raw materials, making price fluctuations a significant concern. The ongoing uncertainty in global oil prices and supply chain disruptions can lead to increased production costs and potential supply shortages. This affects profit margins for manufacturers, leading some to explore alternatives, such as bio-based acrylonitrile. Moreover, geopolitical factors and trade restrictions in key supplier countries are adding to the instability in raw material pricing, making it harder for market players to forecast costs and plan long-term investments.

Segmentation Analysis

The Acrylonitrile market is segmented based on type and application, each catering to distinct industry needs. In terms of type, the market is divided into methods like the Propylene Method and Propane Method, with the propylene method dominating due to its efficiency and scalability in production. For applications, acrylonitrile is primarily used in acrylic fibers, ABS resins, acrylamide, and nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), each holding substantial market shares. These segments are driven by rising demand for lightweight materials in automotive and textiles, as well as increasing use of acrylamide in water treatment. Regional preferences for certain applications further influence these segments, shaping market dynamics.

By Type 

• Propylene Method: The propylene method is the dominant technology in acrylonitrile production, accounting for around 60-65% of global production. This method uses propylene, a by-product of petroleum refining, as the primary feedstock. The propylene method is preferred for its high efficiency and lower production costs compared to other methods. This method is particularly prevalent in regions with established petroleum refining industries, such as North America and Asia-Pacific. The propylene method's widespread adoption is largely due to its ability to generate high yields of acrylonitrile, making it the method of choice for large-scale production.

• Propane Method: The propane method, which uses propane as a feedstock, is a secondary method, accounting for 30-35% of global acrylonitrile production. While the process is more energy-intensive and less common than the propylene method, it remains a key production technique in certain regions where propane is more readily available. The propane method is often used in China and other emerging economies, where local availability of propane allows producers to capitalize on more cost-effective feedstocks. This method is gaining attention in regions with a growing demand for acrylonitrile but with limited propylene supply, offering an alternative production pathway.

By Application 

• Acrylic Fibers: Acrylic fibers dominate the acrylonitrile market, accounting for approximately 40-45% of total consumption. These fibers are used extensively in textiles, particularly in the production of clothing, carpets, and blankets. The growth of the textile industry, particularly in emerging economies such as China and India, is a key factor driving this segment.

• ABS and SAN Resins: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and SAN (Styrene Acrylonitrile) resins represent around 25-30% of the market. These resins are crucial for applications in the automotive and electronic industries due to their strength and durability. The increasing demand for lightweight automotive parts and consumer electronics is propelling growth in this application.

• Acrylamide: Acrylamide, which is used mainly in water treatment, oil recovery, and in the chemical industry, holds about 10-15% of the market. This segment is growing as water treatment and waste management initiatives increase globally, especially in developed countries where water purification is a priority.

• Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR): NBR accounts for around 15-20% of the market. This synthetic rubber is widely used in the manufacture of gaskets, seals, and medical gloves, making it an essential material in the automotive and medical sectors. With rising demand in these industries, NBR applications are experiencing significant growth.

• Others: The "Others" category, including applications like carbon fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and specialty chemicals, comprises the remaining 10-15% of the market. These niche applications benefit from increasing demand in aerospace, energy, and advanced materials sectors, where acrylonitrile-based products offer superior strength-to-weight ratios and other desirable characteristics.

Acrylonitrile Regional Outlook

The Acrylonitrile market has distinct regional dynamics, with regions like Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe dominating the global landscape. Asia-Pacific leads the market, accounting for about 45-50% of global consumption, driven by countries like China, India, and Japan, where acrylonitrile is essential for the production of acrylic fibers, ABS resins, and carbon fibers. North America follows, representing around 20-25% of the market, with high demand for acrylonitrile in automotive and aerospace industries. Europe holds a market share of approximately 15-20%, primarily due to stringent environmental policies pushing for greener production methods and high demand in the automotive and chemical sectors.

North America

North America holds a significant share in the Acrylonitrile market, accounting for 20-25% of the total market share. The United States is a key player in the region, where acrylonitrile is used extensively in the automotive and electronics industries, contributing to the market's growth. With increasing demand for lightweight materials and eco-friendly manufacturing processes, North American producers are focusing on sustainable acrylonitrile production technologies. Additionally, Canada and Mexico are also witnessing rising demand for acrylonitrile, further boosting the region's market share.

Europe

Europe holds around 15-20% of the global acrylonitrile market share, driven by strong regulations and an emphasis on sustainable production. Key players in the region are focused on meeting environmental standards, such as reducing emissions and promoting the use of bio-based acrylonitrile. The automotive and chemical industries remain the major consumers, with increasing demand for acrylic fibers and ABS resins. Germany, France, and Italy lead in production and consumption, contributing significantly to Europe's market presence.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region dominates the Acrylonitrile market, representing 45-50% of global consumption. This growth is driven by countries like China, which is both the largest producer and consumer of acrylonitrile, particularly in the production of acrylic fibers and carbon fibers. The rise of electric vehicles and aerospace applications has further boosted demand in the region. India and Japan are also significant contributors, with growing industrialization and infrastructure development. China alone accounts for more than 30% of global acrylonitrile demand.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region is witnessing steady growth in the Acrylonitrile market, contributing 5-10% to the global share. The region's demand for acrylonitrile is driven by the petrochemical industries in countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt. With the growing focus on sustainable manufacturing practices and the increasing need for plastics and textiles, the demand for acrylonitrile is expected to rise. South Africa and Nigeria are emerging as key consumers due to their expanding industrial sectors.

LIST OF KEY Acrylonitrile Market COMPANIES PROFILED

• Ineos
• Ascend Performance Materials
• Cornerstone
• Unigel
• AnQore
• Saratovorgsintez Saratov
• Repsol Chemicals
• Petkim
• Taekwang Industrial
• Formosa Plastics
• Shanghai Secco Petrochemical
• CPDC
• Anqing Petrochemical
• Asahi Kasei
• Jilin Petrochemical Company
• Wanda Petrochemical
• Shandong Qilu Petrochemical Qitai
• Petrochemical
• Reliance Industries

Top Two Companies With Highest Market Share

• Ineos: Holding a 20% market share in the Acrylonitrile market, is a leading player in the industry. The company specializes in advanced acrylonitrile production technologies, ensuring high-quality output and operational efficiency. Ineos places a strong emphasis on sustainable manufacturing practices, aligning with global environmental standards. With a robust presence in global supply chains, the company ensures the consistent supply of acrylonitrile to various industries. Its products are used across a wide range of sectors, including textiles, automotive, and pharmaceuticals, demonstrating the versatility and broad application of its acrylonitrile-based solutions.

• Ascend: Performance Materials, holding 18% of the global Acrylonitrile market share, is a prominent player with deep expertise in chemical manufacturing. The company focuses on producing high-quality engineering plastics and synthetic fibers, which are critical for various industrial applications. Ascend places a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, ensuring that its products meet modern environmental and performance standards. Their acrylonitrile-based products are widely used across industries like automotive, electronics, and chemicals, contributing to the company's strong position in the global market.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The Acrylonitrile market presents ample investment opportunities, with key regions such as Asia-Pacific and North America showing high growth potential. Investments in sustainable technologies and bio-based acrylonitrile are expected to shape future market trends, with companies allocating over 25% of their resources to research and development (R&D). Additionally, the growth of carbon fiber production, particularly for the automotive and aerospace industries, is providing significant investment opportunities. The increasing demand for acrylic fibers in activewear and sports apparel presents an attractive market segment for investors, as demand continues to rise. As global regulations push for lower emissions in manufacturing processes, companies are investing in greener production methods to comply with these standards.

NEW PRODUCT Development

Manufacturers are focusing heavily on new product development in the Acrylonitrile market, with emphasis on creating bio-based acrylonitrile and more efficient production methods. Recent developments have seen companies such as Ineos and Ascend Performance Materials launch greener acrylonitrile products, which aim to reduce environmental impact by 10-15%. These innovations are driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions and growing government regulations. The market is also witnessing developments in carbon fiber technology, with acrylonitrile-based products offering superior strength-to-weight ratios for electric vehicle and aerospace applications. With automotive and aerospace industries adopting more lightweight materials, these advancements provide significant opportunities for manufacturers.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Acrylonitrile Market

• Ineos launched a new bio-based acrylonitrile product in 2023, reducing carbon emissions by 15%.
• Ascend Performance Materials opened a new acrylonitrile plant in North America in 2024, increasing production capacity by 10%.
• Unigel introduced a recyclable acrylonitrile-based polymer for automotive parts in 2023, contributing to 5% growth in the sector.
• Repsol Chemicals began producing acrylonitrile from renewable feedstocks in 2024, leading to a 12% reduction in production costs.
• Taekwang Industrial invested in expanding its acrylonitrile production capacity in Asia-Pacific by 20% in 2024, focusing on ABS resins.

REPORT COVERAGE of Acrylonitrile Market

The Acrylonitrile Market report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global market, highlighting key regions, production methods, and application segments that are driving growth. In Asia-Pacific, which holds the largest market share of about 50-55%, acrylonitrile demand is led by countries like China, India, and Japan, where industrialization, particularly in the automotive and textile industries, is propelling market growth. North America follows with around 20-25% market share, driven by demand in the pharmaceutical, plastics, and automotive sectors, as well as sustainability trends in construction. Europe accounts for 15-20% of the global share, with demand mainly from the automotive, chemical, and textile industries. The report also covers the two main production methods: the propane method, which accounts for 60-65% of production, and the propylene method, responsible for 30-35%. In terms of applications, acrylic fibers dominate, with 40-45% market share, driven by growing demand in textiles and apparel, especially in emerging markets. ABS resins follow with 25-30%, crucial for the automotive and electronics sectors, while nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) holds 15-20% of the market, benefiting from demand in medical and automotive industries. The growing trend towards bio-based acrylonitrile and stricter regulations on sustainability are expected to further shape market dynamics, with bio-based acrylonitrile potentially capturing 5-7% of the market in the coming years.