Alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) products are organic compounds used in the paper industry for improving the surface properties of paper and paperboard. AKD is used as a sizing agent in paper manufacturing to control the porosity and print quality. It helps in providing stiffness, strength, enhancing surface finish and minimizing ink and moisture penetration in the paper.
The global Alkyl Ketene Dimer Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 340.98 Mn in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.9% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market key trends:
Growing use of AKD as a sizing agent in treatment of pulp plays a vital role in driving the market growth. As AKD act as a barrier and clogs pores on the paper’s surface, it helps in reduction of ink penetration and enhances print quality of paper. Its effectiveness in sizing properties has increased its demand from paper manufacturing industry worldwide. This has resulted in manufacturers increasing production to meet rising requirements of AKD from paper mills globally. The increased demand from paper industry is expected to present lucrative opportunities for alkyl ketene dimer market players over the forecast period.
SWOT Analysis
Strength: The Alkyl Ketene Dimer market is driven by increasing demand for pulp and paper. AKD imparts hydrophobicity to paper surfaces, making them water-resistant.
Weakness: Fluctuations in raw material prices can increase the cost of production for AKD manufacturers. Strict environmental regulations regarding the disposal of manufacturing waste also present a challenge.
Opportunity: Growing demand for paper packaging from e-commerce and food & beverage industries in Asia Pacific provides new avenues for market growth. Manufacturers can invest in R&D to develop bio-based and eco-friendly AKD alternatives.
Threats: Substitutes like rosin sizes and alkenyl succinic anhydride threaten the demand for AKD. Price volatility of crude oil from where AKD is derived also introduces uncertainty.
Key Takeaways
The Global Alkyl Ketene Dimer Market Size is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period of 2023 to 2030. The market size for 2023 is estimated to be US$ 340.98 Mn and projected to increase at a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period.
Regional analysis: Asia Pacific dominates the global AKD market currently and is expected to maintain its leading position through 2030. Countries like China, India, Indonesia and Japan are major paper producers in the world and drive the regional demand. Growing paper packaging needs of e-commerce and FMCG sectors further boost the APAC alkyl ketene dimer market.
Key players: Key players operating in the Alkyl Ketene Dimer (AKD) market are Aries Chemical, Inc., Arakawa Chemical Industries, Ltd., Atlas Organics Private Limited, GO YEN Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd., Haihang Industry, Kemira Oyj, Longkou Longpai Fine Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., Oleon NV, Plasmine Technology, Inc. and SEIKO PMC Corporation. Leading manufacturers are focusing on capacity expansion plans and new product launches catering topaper manufacturers’ requirements.
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