Overview of the global cationic surfactant market
According to Bergers Consulting, the global cationic surfactant market size is expected to be 23$7.9 billion, with a CAGR of 965%。
Cationic surfactants are surfactants in which hydrophobic groups are linked to positively charged hydrophilic groups by covalent bonds. Due to its special structure, cationic surfactants exhibit unique properties such as antistatic, bactericidal, and soft, which are irreplaceable by other types of surfactants.
Market development trends
Cationic surfactants generally have good emulsifying, wetting, washing, sterilization, softening, antistatic and antiseptic properties. Due to its special performance and application, it has good development potential, and with the continuous expansion of industrial and civil applications, its variety and demand will continue to increase. Compared with anionic and nonionic surfactants, the dosage is relatively small, and the application range of cationic surfactants is narrow, and the threat from anionic and nonionic surfactants cannot be ignored.
Market dynamics
In September 2022, Stepan acquired surfactant manufacturer Pertanx Specialty Chemicals, LLC, a move that will strengthen Stepan's position in the surfactant market.
In March 2022, BASF launched a biosurfactant made from renewable resources and coconut oil. This product, named Plantopon SO (anionic surfactant), is a non-GMO soy protein derivative.
At present, the sellers of cationic surfactants are mainly some well-known regional first-class merchants, and the market is relatively fragmented and the competition is moderate. Sellers in the market focus on technological innovation, and simpler and more efficient production technologies provide sellers with new growth opportunities. Clariant is one of the major players in the cationic surfactants market, accounting for 833% market share. Clariant AG is a global specialty chemicals company whose products and services are organized into four business areas: Care Chemicals, Catalysis & Energy, Natural Resources, and Plastics & Coatings, developing, producing, marketing and selling specialty chemical products for a variety of end markets.