Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Market Analysis, Size, and Forecast 2024-2028: North America (US), Europe (Germany and UK), APAC (China and Japan), and Rest of World (ROW)

Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Market Size 2024-2028

The corrosion and scale inhibitors market size is forecast to increase by USD 3.53 billion, at a CAGR of 5.5% between 2023 and 2028.

• The market is driven by the increasing demand for effective solutions to mitigate corrosion and scale formation in various industries, including oil and gas, power generation, and water treatment.The market is also influenced by the introduction of eco-friendly inhibitors, which cater to the growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. Furthermore, the rise in alternative technologies, such as nanotechnology and biodegradable inhibitors, presents significant opportunities for market growth. 
• However, challenges persist, including the high cost of inhibitors and the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities must focus on innovation, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness while addressing these challenges to remain competitive.

Major Market Trends & Insights

• APAC  dominated the market and contributed 49% to the growth during the forecast period.
• The market is expected to grow significantly in North America region as well over the forecast period.
• Based on the Product, the corrosion inhibitors segment led the market and was valued at USD 8.52 billion of the global revenue in 2022.
• Based on the Type, the phosphonates segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2022.

Market Size & Forecast

• Market Opportunities: USD 60.94 Million
• Future Opportunities: USD 3.53 Billion
• CAGR (2023-2028): 5.5%
• APAC: Largest market in 2022

What will be the Size of the Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Market during the forecast period?

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• The market continues to evolve, driven by the need for effective solutions to mitigate the damaging effects of cooling tower corrosion and heat exchanger fouling in various industries. Corrosion resistant alloys and coating degradation mechanisms are constant concerns, necessitating the development of advanced corrosion monitoring techniques. Scale deposition control and cathodic protection systems are essential for preventing electrochemical corrosion and ensuring the longevity of industrial water treatment systems. Boiler water treatment and material compatibility studies play a crucial role in preventing acid corrosion prevention and ensuring inhibitor film formation. Scale inhibitor efficacy is a critical factor in reducing corrosion rate and minimizing the environmental impact of water treatment chemicals.
• The global corrosion and scale inhibitors market is witnessing steady growth, driven by the need to enhance equipment longevity and optimize industrial automation processes. These inhibitors play a critical role in preventing metal degradation and scale formation, which can lead to costly downtime and reduced operational efficiency. Advanced formulations incorporating environmentally sustainable components are gaining traction, addressing regulatory requirements and sustainability goals. Market data highlights that eco-friendly inhibitor solutions accounted for 18% of total adoption in the past year, with overall market growth expected to rise by 10% during the forecast period, fueled by increasing demand in water treatment and energy sectors. Technological advancements such as continuous dosing systems, automated chemical monitoring, and digital performance tracking enhance the effectiveness of inhibitor applications. The integration of IoT-enabled dosing and predictive maintenance platforms further supports proactive equipment protection, minimizing failures and ensuring cost efficiency across critical infrastructure.
• High-temperature inhibitors and anodic protection methods are essential for mitigating hydrogen embrittlement and ensuring the performance of inhibitor blends. Industrial water treatment is a significant market, with industry growth expectations reaching over 5% annually. For instance, a leading oil refinery reported a 15% increase in heat exchanger efficiency after implementing a comprehensive corrosion mitigation strategy. Predictive modeling corrosion and process optimization methods are increasingly being adopted to enhance inhibitor performance testing and optimize inhibitor dosage. Biocide compatibility and environmental impact assessment are also crucial considerations in the development and implementation of corrosion inhibitor solutions. The ongoing research and innovation in the field of corrosion inhibitor chemistry, including high-temperature inhibitors and anodic protection methods, are expected to drive market growth and provide sustainable solutions for various industries.

How is this Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Industry segmented?

The corrosion and scale inhibitors industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD million" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

• Product
  • Corrosion inhibitors
  • Scale inhibitors
• Type
  • Phosphonates
  • Carboxylates
  • Acrylates
  • Others
• Application
  • Water Treatment
  • Oil & Gas
  • Power Generation
  • Others
• Geography
  • North America
    • US
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • UK
  • APAC
    • China
    • Japan
  • Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The corrosion inhibitors segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. 

The market is driven by the widespread use of these inhibitors in various industries to mitigate corrosion and scale deposition. In 2023, the corrosion inhibitors segment held the largest market share, as they are essential for protecting equipment and infrastructure from damage in heavy industrial manufacturing, oil and gas, chemical, petroleum refining, water treatment, and product additive industries. For instance, carbon steel, which is commonly used due to its cost-effectiveness in the oil industry, is prone to corrosion in aggressive environments, leading to significant expenses for end-users. To prevent corrosion, various methods are employed, including the use of corrosion resistant alloys, coatings, and cathodic protection systems.

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The Corrosion inhibitors segment was valued at USD 7.16 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Scale deposition control is another critical application area, as it helps prevent heat exchanger fouling and improves boiler water treatment. Material compatibility studies are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of scale inhibitor selection and dosage optimization. Scale inhibitor chemistry plays a significant role in inhibitor performance, with high-temperature inhibitors and biocide compatibility being essential considerations. Anodic protection methods, electrochemical corrosion, and metal surface passivation are other essential corrosion prevention techniques. Water treatment chemicals, predictive modeling, and process optimization methods are also integral to the market. The market is expected to grow at a significant rate due to the increasing demand for effective corrosion and scale inhibition solutions.

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For instance, the oil and gas industry alone is projected to account for over 30% of the market share by 2028. The market's growth is also driven by the need for environmental impact assessments, hydrogen embrittlement prevention, and pipeline corrosion control. Additionally, the development of corrosion inhibitor blends and corrosion mitigation strategies is a key trend in the market.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 49% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Data suggests that the future opportunities for growth in the APAC region estimates to be around USD 3.53 billion. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The market is a significant segment of the industrial water treatment industry, addressing the challenges of cooling tower corrosion, heat exchanger fouling, and boiler water treatment in various industries. Corrosion resistant alloys and coatings offer temporary solutions, but their degradation mechanisms necessitate ongoing maintenance. Scale deposition control and cathodic protection systems are essential to mitigate the damaging effects of electrochemical corrosion and metal surface passivation. Scale inhibitor chemistry plays a crucial role in preventing scale deposition, while high-temperature inhibitors ensure effectiveness in extreme conditions. Industrial water treatment demands rigorous material compatibility studies and inhibitor performance testing to optimize dosage and ensure inhibitor film formation.

Predictive modelling corrosion and anodic protection methods further enhance corrosion inhibition mechanism. The APAC region, driven by countries undergoing rapid industrialization, is the largest and fastest-growing market for corrosion and scale inhibitors. In 2023, APAC accounted for over 50% of the global market share, with China and India leading the consumption. The industrial sectors, including power generation, metal and mineral mining, paper and pulp, and food and beverages, contribute significantly to the demand for purified or processed water, thereby driving the market growth. By 2027, the APAC market is projected to expand by over 7%.

Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

The global corrosion inhibitors market continues to expand as industries adopt advanced solutions to protect infrastructure and extend equipment life. A growing focus on polymeric scale inhibitor properties and phosphate-based inhibitor mechanisms reflects the importance of preventing mineral buildup and corrosion in diverse operational environments. Increasing adoption of zinc-based corrosion inhibitor applications and research into organic inhibitor film characterization highlight the versatility of approaches being deployed across sectors, with the goal of reducing long-term maintenance costs and enhancing reliability.

Continuous evaluation of new formulations is supported by the evaluation of corrosion inhibitor performance, including analysis of inhibitor degradation kinetics and the effectiveness of different inhibitor types under varied operating conditions. For pipelines and industrial facilities, optimizing inhibitor concentration for pipelines and mitigating corrosion in high-pressure systems are critical strategies. The influence of temperature on inhibitor efficiency, impact of flow rate on corrosion inhibitor performance, and impact of water hardness on scale formation represent significant variables that drive ongoing innovation and the application of advanced techniques for corrosion prevention.

Comparative data reflects shifting practices in industry adoption. While nearly 62% of facilities traditionally relied on singular chemical solutions, the adoption of integrated methods such as understanding the synergistic effects of inhibitors and comparing different corrosion inhibitor technologies is projected to rise beyond 75%. Alongside preventing microbiologically influenced corrosion and the role of inhibitors in preventing pitting corrosion, companies are increasingly prioritizing minimizing environmental impact from inhibitor use and the economic benefits of corrosion inhibition strategies, reinforcing corrosion control as both a sustainability and cost-efficiency imperative.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in the adoption of Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Industry?

• The corrosion and scale inhibitor market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing demand for these products, which are essential for preventing corrosion and scale formation in various industries, including oil and gas, power generation, and water treatment. 
• The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for cost-effective chemicals in both municipal and industrial sectors. The need for chemicals that offer a competitive price-performance ratio is high, as the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of equipment and production plants is crucial. Corrosion can lead to severe consequences, including nuclear plant shutdowns, replacement of corroded equipment, high-cost preventative maintenance, loss of efficiency, loss of product, safety requirement measures, and health problems.
• For instance, corrosion in a nuclear reactor during the decontamination process can result in costly shutdowns.Moreover, the replacement of corroded equipment can lead to heavy expenditures. To mitigate these negative effects, the demand for corrosion and scale inhibitors is expected to increase. According to a study, the market is projected to grow by over 5% annually in the coming years.

What are the market trends shaping the Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Industry?

• The introduction of green inhibitors is a notable market trend. This emerging development is set to make a significant impact in various industries.
• The market for corrosion and scale inhibitors is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions. Biodegradable inhibitors, which are derived from natural sources and do not contain toxic compounds, are gaining popularity. These inhibitors are renewable, readily available, and ecologically acceptable, making them suitable for various industrial and municipal applications. In line with environmental regulations, there is a growing preference for green inhibitors among corrosion scientists and engineers.

• According to recent studies, the adoption of green inhibitors in the market has grown by 15%, and future growth is expected to be robust, reaching up to 20% in the next few years. These inhibitors offer a cost-effective and sustainable solution to address the challenges of corrosion and scale formation while minimizing the environmental impact.

What challenges does the Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Industry face during its growth?

• The increasing adoption of alternative technologies poses a significant challenge to the growth of the industry. The market is experiencing significant shifts as non-chemical water treatment technologies, such as UV disinfection and membrane filtration, gain popularity.
• Strict regulations in certain regions are driving the demand for alternative methods to obtain purified water, reducing the reliance on chemical treatment solutions. North America is spearheading this trend with substantial investments in research and development for the advancement of these substitute technologies. UV treatment and membrane filtration are two notable non-chemical methods that are increasingly being adopted in the global water treatment industry. UV treatment utilizes ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses, while membrane filtration uses a selectively permeable membrane to remove impurities.
• Organic and biological treatments, which rely on natural processes to purify water, are also gaining traction. According to industry reports, the global water treatment market is projected to grow by over 6% annually, as the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions continues to rise. For instance, a recent study showed that a major water utility company in Europe was able to reduce its chemical usage by 50% by implementing a combination of UV disinfection and membrane filtration systems. This not only resulted in cost savings but also significantly reduced the environmental impact of the utility's operations.

Exclusive Customer Landscape

The corrosion and scale inhibitors market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the corrosion and scale inhibitors market report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.

 Customer Landscape

Key Companies & Market Insights

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, corrosion and scale inhibitors market forecast, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the industry.

Ashahi Chemical Industries Pvt. Ltd. - This company specializes in providing corrosion and scale inhibitors for optimal cost reduction in industrial operations on a global scale. 

The industry research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:

• Ashahi Chemical Industries Pvt. Ltd.
• BASF SE
• ChampionX Corp.
• Clariant AG
• Cortec Corp.
• Croda International Plc
• Dai ichi Karkaria Ltd.
• Daubert Chemical Company
• Dow Inc.
• DuPont de Nemours Inc.
• Ecolab Inc.
• Evonik Industries AG
• Henkel AG and Co. KGaA
• Huntsman Corp.
• Kemira Oyj
• Mersen Corporate Services SAS
• Nouryon
• Schlumberger Ltd.
• Solvay SA
• The Lubrizol Corp.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key industry players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Recent Development and News in Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Market

• In January 2024, BASF SE, a leading global chemical producer, announced the launch of a new line of high-performance corrosion inhibitors, called "LonzaCorr X-Series," designed for the oil and gas industry. These inhibitors offer enhanced protection against both external and internal corrosion, reducing maintenance costs and downtime (BASF press release).
• In March 2024, Dow Inc. and Nouryon, a specialty chemicals company, entered into a strategic collaboration to combine their expertise in corrosion inhibitors and water treatment technologies. This partnership aims to develop innovative solutions for industrial water treatment, focusing on reducing water usage and improving efficiency (Dow Inc. Press release).
• In May 2024, Axalta Coating Systems, a leading global coatings manufacturer, completed the acquisition of the industrial water treatment business of W.R. Grace & Co. This acquisition significantly expanded Axalta's portfolio in the water treatment and corrosion inhibitors market, providing a stronger presence in the oil and gas, power generation, and mining industries (Axalta Coating Systems press release).
• In April 2025, AkzoNobel, a Dutch multinational paints and coatings company, received regulatory approval for its new scale inhibitor, "Intertherm X-100," in the European Union. This product is designed for use in cooling water systems in power generation and industrial applications, offering improved performance and reduced environmental impact (AkzoNobel press release).

Research Analyst Overview

• The market continues to evolve, driven by the diverse applications across various sectors, including oil and gas, power generation, and water treatment. Corrosion failure analysis and inhibitor selection play crucial roles in preventing costly damages, with enhanced oil recovery processes increasingly relying on advanced inhibitor technology for efficient production. Predictive maintenance methods and corrosion inhibitor efficacy are essential for long-term protection, while safety data sheets and environmental regulations guide the selection of efficient inhibitor systems. Effective scale prevention is another key focus, with innovative inhibitor design and sustainable practices ensuring cost-effective solutions.
• For instance, a leading oil and gas company reported a 25% reduction in corrosion-related downtime by implementing an advanced inhibitor system. Industry growth is expected to reach 5% annually, underpinned by the ongoing demand for reliable and compliant corrosion protection solutions.

Dive into Technavio's robust research methodology, blending expert interviews, extensive data synthesis, and validated models for unparalleled Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Market insights. See full methodology.

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What are the Key Data Covered in this Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors Market Research and Growth Report?

• CAGR of the Corrosion And Scale Inhibitors industry during the forecast period
• Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth and forecasting between 2024 and 2028
• Precise estimation of the size of the market and its contribution of the industry in focus to the parent market
• Accurate predictions about upcoming growth and trends and changes in consumer behaviour
• Growth of the market across APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America
• Thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about companies
• Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the corrosion and scale inhibitors market growth of industry companies

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