Propionic Acid Market Exhibits Steady Growth: Major Applications Driving the Demand

26 Jul 2023 • by Natalie Aster

The propionic acid market is a flourishing sector in the global chemical industry. Despite its simple structure, propionic acid plays an essential role in numerous industries, including food preservatives, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed, among others. By deepening the understanding of propionic acid and improving production methods, the industry can pave the way for innovative and sustainable solutions to the current industrial, environmental, and health challenges.

Understanding the Basics of Propionic Acid

Propionic acid (formula C3H6O2), aka propanoic acid, is a naturally found carboxylic acid. It's an important compound, not only in the field of chemistry but also in numerous industries, due to its versatile applications.

The acid is colorless, corrosive, and possesses a similar to acetic acid pungent odor. It is available in both liquid and solid forms Its structure consists of a three-carbon chain, with the end carbon participating in a carboxylic acid group (-COOH). This acid group gives propionic acid its characteristic acidic properties, which are crucial to its wide range of applications.

Propionic acid production is a complex process, primarily carried out through the hydrocarboxylation of ethylene in the presence of a catalyst, such as nickel carbonyl. The reaction produces a mixture of acetic acid and propionic acid, which are then separated through distillation.

Health and Safety Measures with Propionic Acid

Even though propionic acid has an array of beneficial uses, it is also corrosive and can cause irritation if it contacts the skin or eyes. Therefore, industries handling this acid need to enforce strict safety measures: the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), proper storage, and disposal methods.

Major Applications Boosting the Demand for Propionic Acid

The broad spectrum of propionic acid applications stretches across various sectors, such as food, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and even renewable energy:

Food Industry

Propionic acid and its salts (for instance, calcium and sodium propionate) are in widespread use as food preservatives due to their antimicrobial properties. They effectively restrain the growth of molds and bacteria, extending the shelf life of multiple products (bakery, dairy, etc.). Therefore, the surge in processed food consumption worldwide spurs the demand for food preservatives, including propionic acid. 

Agriculture

As a potent fungicide and bactericide, propionic acid is extensively used to preserve grains and animal feed. Its antimicrobial action prevents the degradation of feed and reduces the risk of transmitting diseases among livestock. Rising global concerns about food safety and the growth in livestock farming are among the key factors bolstering the demand for propionic acid.

Pharmaceuticals

In this field, propionic acid acts as a versatile building block for various drugs and medications, including ibuprofen and naproxen, which are popular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. With the growing healthcare industry, the demand for propionic acid in the pharmaceutical sector is expected to remain robust.

Renewable Energy

Propionic acid has the potential to serve as a liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) in the developing field of hydrogen energy, thus holding promise to revolutionize renewable energy storage and transportation. 

Geographical Breakdown of the Propionic Acid Market

Regionally, Europe captures the largest chunk of the world’s propionic acid market, mainly due to the high demand from the animal feed industry. Besides, stringent regulations pertaining to food safety in the region have further propelled market growth.

The Asia-Pacific market for propionic acid is slated to exhibit the highest growth rates in the years ahead, given the burgeoning processed food industry and increasing livestock farming in countries like China and India.

Challenges Facing the Propionic Acid Market

Although the propionic acid market has a bright future, it faces challenges too. These primarily revolve around the volatile prices of raw materials and stringent environmental regulations. However, the development of bio-based propionic acid carries the potential to overcome the existing challenges and pave the way for sustainable market growth.

Future Projections for the Propionic Acid Market

The future of the propionic acid market looks promising. By 2030, the market is expected to grow at a steady CAGR, driven majorly by the growing demand in the key end-use sectors, including food preservatives and animal feed, pharmaceuticals, etc. Meanwhile, the emerging uses of propionic acid in the plastics and rubber industry may open new avenues for market expansion. While challenges exist, embracing sustainable and innovative solutions can ensure the continued prosperity of the propionic acid market.

Product Details:

Propionic Acid Market Research Report 2023 

Published: July 2023
Pages: 50
Price: US$ 2,200.00

Market Publishers boasts a rich collection of insightful research studies covering the chemicals and petrochemicals market, find it in the Chemicals & Petrochemicals Market Reports Catalogue. 

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