N-Propanol Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034

The global n-propanol market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.20% between 2025 and 2034.

N-propanol or n-propyl alcohol is a primary alcohol which typically is in the form of a colourless and clear liquid with a strong odour. It is used widely in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and dyeing industries as a solvent and an intermediate product. It is an excellent cleaning and disinfecting agent, finding wide applications in hand sanitisers. Owing to its semi-volatile nature, it is used as a drying agent in coating and paint sectors. N-Propanol is also used as a starting material and intermediate in insecticide and herbicide production.

There is a growing consciousness about cleanliness and personal hygiene, particularly to prevent the spread of infections. Being a widely used component in the production of hand sanitisers, disinfectants, and detergents, N-propanol market growth is expected to see an upward trend during the forecast period. Environmental concerns and fluctuations in oil prices are encouraging scientific research into alternative fuels. N-Propanol is expected to see a gradual adoption as a fuel in developed countries. The use of N-Propanol as a fuel additive, contributing to lower carbon emissions while improving the performance of internal combustion engines will also likely shape the future of the global market.

Key Trends and Developments

Sustainability and environmental compliance; versatility in applications; and increase in research and development activities are the major trends impacting the n-propanol market expansion

March, 2024

BASF, a leading market player, announced that it has been chosen to enter negotiations for a USD 75 million funding opportunity from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

March, 2024

Eastman Chemical, a provider of n-propanol, announced that it aims to construct a new molecular recycling facility in Texas, the United States.

February, 2024

Sasol Ltd and Air Liquide entered into their fourth joint power off-take agreement which entails the purchase of 110 MW of wind energy from a subsidiary of Italian utility Enel SpA in South Africa.

January, 2024

Nova Molecular Technologies announced a significant expansion with a USD 23.75 million investment to increase its production capabilities and enhance its high-purity solvent offerings.

Sustainability and environmental compliance

As environmental concerns grow, companies are investing in sustainable production methods of n-propanol.

Versatility in applications

The versatility of n-propanol as a solvent is leading to its increased use in newer applications such as hand sanitisers.

Increase in research and development activities

There is an increasing investment in research and development by major market players to improve the efficiency of n-propanol as a solvent.

Regulatory impact

Stringent regulations regarding VOC emissions and environmental sustainability are influencing the production and use of n-propanol.

N-Propanol Market Trends

The increasing use of n-propanol in hand sanitisers highlights its versatility as a solvent. N-propanol is highly effective as a solvent in formulations where it can dissolve other substances required in hand sanitisers, such as fragrances, oils, and other active ingredients. Its solvent properties ensure that these ingredients remain mixed and do not separate over time, maintaining the consistency and efficacy of the hand sanitiser.

Market players in n-propanol market are expanding their production capacities to meet the growing demand from end-use sectors. Nova Molecular Technologies announced a USD 23.75 million investment in January 2024 to expand its operations in Sumter County, the United States. The company is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for high-purity solvents, which are critical in various industries including pharmaceuticals, biopharma, and analytical applications.

Market Segmentation

“N-Propanol Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Preparation Method

• Ethylene Hydrogenation Method
• Allyl Alcohol Hydrogenation Method
• Compound Byproduct Method

Market Breakup by Application

• Coatings
• Food Additive
• Pharmaceutical
• Cosmetics
• Agriculture
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

The ethylene hydrogenation method accounts for a major n-propanol market share due to its cost-effectiveness

The ethylene hydrogenation method typically holds the highest market share in the production of n-propanol. It involves the hydrogenation of ethylene to produce n-propanol, which is a straightforward and cost-effective process, making it popular among major producers. This method's efficiency and lower cost of production compared to other methods make it the leading choice for n-propanol manufacturing.

Allyl alcohol hydrogenation method is anticipated to grow at a significant rate in the coming years. Although this method is more complex and might involve higher costs than the ethylene hydrogenation method, it offers advantages in terms of purity and yield that make it valuable for certain applications where higher-quality n-propanol is required.

The pharmaceutical sector maintains its dominance in the market owing to the rising usage of n-propanol as a solvent in pharmaceutical drugs

Pharmaceutical applications are likely to occupy a significant share of the n-propanol market. Its wide use as an intermediary for chemical synthesis and solvent in chemical processes in an expanding pharmaceutical market is expected to drive global market growth in the coming years. As an effective antimicrobial, it is widely used for skin antisepsis and for disinfecting hard surfaces.

N-Propanol is also considered effective and safe for use in preparing skin for operations and in handwashes for surgeons due to its excellent bactericidal activity. With an increasing number of surgeries performed globally, the demand for N-propanol market is expected to rise to prevent bacterial infections post-surgery.  Moreover, N-propanol is also widely used as a solvent in the coatings sector because of its ability to dissolve various polymers and resins effectively.

Competitive Landscape

The market players are increasing their collaboration and research and development activities to gain a competitive edge in the n-propanol market

BASF SE

BASF SE, founded in 1865 and headquartered in Germany, is one of the largest chemical producers in the world and produces a wide range of petrochemicals.

Eastman Chemical Company

Eastman Chemical Company, headquartered in Tennessee in the United States and founded in 1920, is one of the leaders in making speciality materials for driving innovation across industrial sectors.

Sasol Limited

Sasol Limited, established in 1950, is a leading energy and chemical company that specialises in the production of chemicals, mobility fluids, and sustainable fluids.

The Dow Chemical Company

The Dow Chemical Company, headquartered in Michigan, United States is a prominent American multinational corporation known for its diversified chemical manufacturing.

Other market players include LG Chem, Solvay S.A., and Dairen Chemical Corporation, among others.

N-Propanol Market Analysis by Region

The Asia Pacific region is projected to be a significant contributor to the growth of the global market in the forecast period due to the presence and proliferation of pharmaceuticals, paints and coatings, and cosmetics-producing units. In countries such as China and India, there is an increase in manufacturing capacities to meet growing consumption requirements both domestically and for exports.

Expansion of the agricultural sector in the region, to meet the increasing demand for food for a growing population is expected to increase the demand for N-Propanol in the form of herbicides and pesticides. Improvements in healthcare infrastructure and general awareness regarding hygiene and disinfection are also expected to contribute to the demand for N-Propanol. India would also require greater volumes of N-Propanol for its growing pharmaceutical sector.

The n-propanol market in North America is characterised by robust demand across various applications. North America has a strong industrial base, with significant demand for n-propanol as a solvent in the production of coatings, adhesives, inks, and cleaning agents.
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