The pickling chemical market is a vital segment within the chemical industry, specializing in the production, distribution, and application of chemicals designed to prepare and preserve metal surfaces. This market plays a fundamental role in various industrial sectors, ensuring the integrity, quality, and longevity of metal components used in manufacturing, construction, automotive, aerospace, and more. At its core, pickling is a surface treatment process aimed at removing contaminants, rust, scale, and oxide layers from metal surfaces. This preparation is essential as it not only enhances the aesthetics of metal products but also serves critical functional purposes. By eliminating surface imperfections and impurities, pickling chemicals create a clean canvas for subsequent processes like coating, welding, and plating, improving the adhesion and durability of these finishes.

The pickling chemical market presents a wide array of offerings, encompassing a variety of acid solutions, such as hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid, as well as inhibitors, surfactants, and bespoke formulations meticulously crafted to cater to the distinct characteristics of different metals and the precise needs of various industrial applications. The market's significance is underscored by its broad application across multiple sectors. Steel manufacturing, in particular, relies heavily on pickling chemicals to clean and prepare steel surfaces for further processing. Additionally, the automotive industry utilizes these chemicals to ensure the quality and durability of automotive components, while construction and infrastructure development rely on them to maintain the integrity of metal structures. With increasing environmental awareness and stringent regulations, there is a growing emphasis on developing eco-friendly pickling solutions that have reduced emissions and environmental impact. This push towards sustainability is driving innovation within the market, leading to the formulation of safer, more efficient, and environmentally conscious pickling chemicals. The pickling chemical market operates on a global scale, with demand stemming from regions experiencing significant industrial activity and growth. Economic conditions, technological advancements, and evolving environmental regulations significantly influence market dynamics, including demand and pricing.

Some of the benefits of designing a Pickling Chemical include:

• Corrosion Protection: Pickling chemicals remove rust, scale, and other contaminants from metal surfaces, helping to prevent corrosion. This is essential for maintaining the structural integrity and durability of metal components.
• Enhanced Durability: By eliminating surface imperfections and contaminants, pickling chemicals contribute to the longevity and performance of metal components, reducing the need for frequent replacements or maintenance.
• Improved Aesthetics: The removal of rust and scale enhances the appearance of metal parts and products, making them more visually appealing and suitable for various applications, including architectural and decorative purposes.

Global Pickling Chemicals Market was valued at US $ 933.5 MM in 2022 and is expected to reach US $ 1411 MM by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period 2023 – 2030. 

COVID -19 Impact

Prior to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the chemical industry was enjoying a period of consistent growth, fueled by the global demand for chemicals across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, and agriculture. This growth was characterized by substantial investments in research and development, innovation, and sustainability initiatives. Supply chains were generally robust and stable, fostering optimism for future expansion and development.

However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought about a significant disruption to the chemical industry. The implementation of lockdown measures, restrictions on movement, and labor shortages created considerable challenges that disrupted production processes. These disruptions, in turn, resulted in supply chain bottlenecks and complex logistical issues. Notably, reduced industrial activity, particularly in sectors like automotive and construction, led to a marked decline in the demand for chemicals. In response to the evolving landscape, many companies swiftly adjusted their production priorities, focusing on meeting the soaring demand for sanitizers and disinfectants, while others grappled with financial uncertainty and diminished revenue.

In the aftermath of this initial devastation, the chemical industry exhibited remarkable adaptability in acclimating to the "new normal" imposed by the pandemic. A key consequence of this adaptation was the accelerated adoption of digitalization and automation within manufacturing processes, a move that bolstered operational efficiency and resilience. Additionally, there was a heightened emphasis on sustainability, with an acknowledgment of the significance of eco-friendly solutions. Despite the challenges, certain segments of the chemical industry experienced continued growth, particularly in chemicals used for healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and personal protective equipment. This expansion served as a counterbalance to losses incurred in other sectors. Moreover, collaborative efforts within the industry and in partnership with governments proved pivotal in addressing supply chain disruptions and ensuring the availability of essential chemicals.

Drivers

Growing Automotive Industry

The expanding automotive industry serves as a driving force behind the growth of the pickling chemical market. This mutually beneficial relationship is underscored by the vital role that pickling chemicals play in ensuring the quality, longevity, and safety of metal components used in vehicle manufacturing. As the automotive sector continues to grow worldwide, the demand for these chemicals intensifies. Pickling chemicals are instrumental in rust prevention, surface preparation for coatings, and the overall enhancement of metal parts' durability and aesthetics. Furthermore, the global reach of the automotive industry and its expansion into emerging markets amplify the market's growth potential for pickling chemical manufacturers. This dynamic interplay between automotive production and pickling chemicals underscores the industry's critical importance in meeting the evolving needs of modern vehicle manufacturing. According to Statista, The global automobile industry witnessed a notable rebound from the pandemic-induced decline, with sales reaching 66.7 million units in 2021. Forecasts suggest that this positive trajectory is likely to continue into 2022. However, it's anticipated that the sales volume for 2023 will remain below the levels seen in 2019, indicating that the industry is on a path of gradual recovery.

Growing water treatment plants

The proliferation of water treatment plants has emerged as a potent catalyst in propelling the market growth of pickling chemicals. These facilities are instrumental in managing industrial wastewater, where pickling chemicals are frequently present as residues. Ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations and preventing water pollution necessitates the neutralization and removal of these chemicals, creating a sustained demand. Water treatment plants actively collaborate with pickling chemical manufacturers to refine treatment processes, optimize chemical utilization, and meet evolving standards. As environmental regulations tighten globally and industries increasingly prioritize water treatment and resource recovery, the market for pickling chemicals in water treatment applications experiences robust expansion, highlighting the integral role they play in environmental stewardship and industrial sustainability. As per Statista, The global market for water and wastewater treatment reached a value of $281.75 billion in 2021, and it is anticipated to witness substantial growth, projected to reach approximately $490 billion by 2029. This growth is expected to be driven by a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2029. In parallel, the global industrial wastewater treatment market is poised for expansion, aiming to reach $15 billion by 2024, with North America emerging as the leading region with a market share of $5.4 billion. Notably, biocides and disinfectants are forecasted to be the dominant segment within the treatment market during this period.

Challenges

Rising Environmental Concerns

The escalating environmental concerns regarding pickling chemicals have become a focal point of recent attention. This heightened awareness stems from a growing acknowledgment of the potential environmental repercussions associated with conventional pickling processes. The use of chemical compounds and resulting byproducts, including acids and heavy metals, in pickling operations has raised concerns about their impact on ecosystems and water resources when not handled responsibly. Consequently, there is a growing sense of urgency within the pickling industry to embrace more sustainable and environmentally friendly methods. Companies are actively exploring innovative and eco-conscious alternatives while implementing rigorous waste management and disposal protocols to curtail their environmental impact. This shift reflects a global commitment to environmental responsibility and the promotion of sustainable practices across industries.

Trends

Adoption of eco-friendly or green pickling chemicals

The pickling chemical industry has experienced a significant boost with the widespread adoption of eco-friendly or green pickling chemicals. This shift has been instrumental in addressing environmental concerns and aligning with increasingly stringent regulations. Eco-friendly pickling chemicals not only facilitate compliance with environmental standards but also substantially reduce the industry's environmental footprint. Moreover, their attributes, such as improved workplace safety, enhanced market reputation, and potential cost savings, have made them a compelling choice for manufacturers. This eco-conscious approach has also ignited innovation and research in the sector, leading to the development of more efficient and sustainable alternatives. As customers and businesses alike prioritize sustainability, the adoption of green pickling chemicals is poised to remain a driving force in the industry, both meeting environmental goals and contributing to long-term industry growth. For instance, In 2015, the global market for renewable chemicals was valued at approximately USD 51.7 billion, and projections indicate that by 2020, it is reached around USD 85.6 billion in size.

Increase in Investment in research and development.

There has been a substantial surge in investment in research and development (R&D) within the chemical industry. This heightened commitment to R&D reflects the industry's dedication to innovation, sustainability, and meeting evolving market demands. Companies in the chemical sector are allocating greater resources to R&D initiatives to drive product development, enhance process efficiency, and create environmentally responsible solutions. This strategic investment not only fosters technological advancements but also strengthens competitive positions and accelerates the development of safer, more sustainable, and high-performance chemical products. As the chemical industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing global challenges and opportunities, the increased investment in R&D remains a pivotal driving force behind its growth and progress. For instance, The European Chemical Industry Council reported a remarkable growth trajectory for the industry, with its value increasing from $1.17 trillion to $3.67 trillion between 2009 and 2019. Despite a minor setback of a 0.4% decline in 2020 attributed to the pandemic, the industry swiftly rebounded in the subsequent year. However, this recovery was interrupted by the outbreak of Russia's conflict in Europe.

Market Segmentation

By Form

• The Aqueous Solution segment dominated the Pickling Chemicals Market in 2022.
• The Paste or Gel segment is the fastest-growing segment, growing at a CAGR of 18.95% during the forecast period.

By Form, the global Pickling Chemicals Market is divided into Aqueous Solution, Paste or Gel, Concentrated Solution.

In the pickling chemical industry, the aqueous solution segment has taken the lead, primarily owing to its versatility and broad applicability across diverse industrial sectors. Aqueous solutions excel in removing rust, scale, and contaminants from metal surfaces, finding widespread use in steel manufacturing, automotive, construction, and metal fabrication. Their ease of use, environmental friendliness, safety attributes, and cost-effectiveness have solidified their dominance, aligning well with industry demands for effective, environmentally conscious, and user-friendly solutions.

Concurrently, the paste or gel segment emerges as the fastest-growing category within the industry. This surge is driven by the unique advantages offered by paste and gel formulations, including precision in application, reduced environmental impact, enhanced worker safety, customization possibilities, and continuous innovation. Manufacturers increasingly turn to paste and gel pickling solutions for targeted, environmentally responsible, and tailored surface treatment applications, reflecting the industry's commitment to efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

By End Users

• Industrial Chemicals segment dominated the Pickling Chemicals Market in 2022.
• Waste-water treatment Equipment is the fastest-growing segment, growing at a CAGR of 16.37% during the forecast period.

By End Users the Pickling Chemicals Market is divided into Steel And Metallurgy, Steel And Metal Recycling Industries, Industrial Chemical, Food & Beverages, Water Or Waste Water Treatment Equipment, Electroplating, Others.

The industrial chemical segment takes the lead in the pickling chemicals industry due to its versatility and widespread use across diverse industrial sectors. These chemicals are indispensable in ensuring the surface treatment and corrosion protection of metals, underpinning industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, construction, and energy. As economies continue to grow and industrial activities expand, the demand for high-quality industrial pickling chemicals remains robust. These chemicals play a pivotal role in upholding stringent quality standards and ensuring the safety and reliability of metal-based products.

Concurrently, the wastewater treatment segment emerges as the fastest-growing niche within the pickling chemical industry. This trend is primarily driven by escalating environmental concerns and increasingly stringent regulations. Pickling processes generate wastewater laden with potentially hazardous substances like acids and heavy metals, necessitating effective treatment to prevent environmental pollution. Moreover, the imperative shift towards sustainability and responsible environmental practices compels industries to adopt wastewater treatment solutions.

By Region

• The North America region dominated the Pickling Chemicals Market in 2022.
• The APAC region is the fastest growing segment, growing at a CAGR of 15.34% during the forecast period.

By region, the global Pickling Chemicals Market is divided into North America, Europe, APAC and Others. Others is further divided into Middle East, Africa and South America.

In North America, regions such as the Midwest in the United States and Ontario in Canada have traditionally been home to a substantial number of pickling chemicals manufacturers due to their strong industrial presence.

In Europe, countries like Germany and France, with their robust manufacturing sectors, have been centers for pickling chemicals production and application. The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region has emerged as the fastest-growing hub in the pickling chemicals market due to a confluence of compelling factors. The foremost driver is rapid industrialization, with countries like China and India leading the charge. This surge in industrial activity has propelled metal manufacturing, automotive production, and infrastructure development, all of which heavily rely on pickling chemicals for surface treatment and corrosion protection. in Asia, China and India, driven by their rapid industrialization and extensive metalworking industries, have seen the growth of numerous pickling chemicals companies. The booming automotive and construction sectors in APAC further amplify the demand for pickling chemicals, as metal components require thorough preparation and protection. Additionally, the region's expanding urban landscapes and infrastructure projects necessitate vast quantities of steel and metal, reinforcing the need for these chemicals. Stricter environmental regulations have also played a role, promoting the adoption of more environmentally friendly pickling solutions in the market.

Competitive Landscape

The global Pickling Chemicals Market is consolidated with the presence of few major players contributing to the market revenue. This dominance of these major players is driven by their 

technological expertise, extensive resources, and established brand recognition. These companies typically offered comprehensive and diversified digital twin solutions, dealing with various aspects of healthcare, such as patient-specific modeling, predictive analytics, and operational optimization. However, the attractiveness of the market has resulted into many new start-ups entering the market with specific solutions and thereby attracting end use industries. 

Major Players

• Septimo Chemicals PVT. Ltd.
• Surface Innovation LLP
• BASF SE
• Böhler Welding
• Chemtex Specialty Limited
• Quaker Chemical Corporation
• Avesta Finishing Chemical
• Wilhelmsen
• Callington Haven Pty Ltd.
• AICHELIN Group
• Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
• Eastman Chemical Company
• Pittsburgh Plate Glass (PPG) Industries
• NOF Metal Coatings Group
• Kyzen Corporation
• Atotech
• AXALTA Coating Systems
• Hubbard-Hall Inc.

Recent Developments

• In October 2020, VDM Metals Group, a renowned German manufacturer specializing in nickel alloys and specialized stainless steels, has implemented Henkel's advanced pickling process, known as Bonderite C-CP ("Cleanox"), which is free of nitric acid (HNO3). This move aligns with the company's commitment to meeting market demands within the metals industry by enhancing the sustainability of their production methods.
• In 2020, Stripco Inc., a manufacturer of flat rolled steel products, including cold rolled steel, has unveiled plans for an expansion project aimed at enhancing steel pickling operations at its Mishawaka, Indiana facility. In this endeavor, the flat rolled steel processor will be implementing a state-of-the-art steel pickling line that incorporates EPS technology (Eco Pickled Surface) developed by The Material Works. EPS technology stands out for its environmentally responsible approach, as it replaces traditional acid pickling methods for steel with a slurry blasting process.

Pickling Chemicals Market Scope

Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION OF GLOBAL  Pickling Chemicals Market

1.1 Overview of the Market

1.2 Scope of Report

1.3 Assumptions

2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Data Mining

3.2 Validation

3.3 Primary Interviews

3.4 List of Data Sources

4 GLOBAL  Pickling Chemicals Market OUTLOOK

4.1 Overview

4.2 Market Dynamics

4.2.1 Drivers

4.2.2 Restraints

4.2.3 Opportunities

4.3 Porters Five Force Model

4.3.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers

4.3.2. Threat of New Entrants

4.3.3. Threat of Substitutes

4.3.4. Competitive Rivalry

4.3.5. Bargaining Power among Buyers

4.4 Value Chain Analysis

5 GLOBAL  Pickling Chemicals Market, BY FORM

5.1 Overview

5.2 Aqueous Solution

5.3 Paste Or Gel

5.4 Concentrated Solution

6 GLOBAL  Pickling Chemicals Market, BY END USER

6.1 Overview

6.2 Steel And Metallurgy

6.3 Steel And Metal Recycling Industries

6.4 Industrial Chemical

6.5 Food & Beverages

6.6 Water Or Waste Water Treatment Equipment

6.7 Electroplating

6.8 Others

7 GLOBAL  Pickling Chemicals Market, By REGION

7.1 North America

7.1.1 U.S.

7.1.2 Canada

7.2 Europe

7.2.1 Germany

7.2.3 U.K.

7.2.4 France

7.2.5 Rest of Europe

7.3 Asia Pacific

7.3.1 China

7.3.2 Japan

7.3.3 India

7.3.4 South Korea

7.3.5 Singapore

7.3.6 Malaysia

7.3.7 Australia

7.3.8 Thailand

7.3.9 Indonesia

7.3.10 Philippines

7.3.11 Rest of Asia Pacific

7.4 Others

7.4.1 Saudi Arabia

7.4.2 U.A.E.

7.4.3 South Africa

7.4.4 Egypt

7.4.5 Israel

7.4.6 Rest of Middle East and Africa (MEA)

7.4.7 Brazil

7.4.8 Argentina

7.4.9 Mexico

7.4.10 Rest of South America

8 COMPANY PROFILES

8.1 Politeknik Metal A.Ş.

8.1.1. Company Overview

8.1.2. Key Executives

8.1.3. Operating Business Segments

8.1.4. Product Portfolio

8.1.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.1.6 Key News

8.2 Metalline Chemical Corporation

8.2.1. Company Overview

8.2.2. Key Executives

8.2.3. Operating Business Segments

8.2.4. Product Portfolio

8.2.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.2.6. Key News

8.3 AXALTA Coating Systems

8.3.1. Company Overview

8.3.2. Key Executives

8.3.3. Operating Business Segments

8.3.4. Product Portfolio

8.3.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.3.6. Key News

8.4 Atotech

8.4.1. Company Overview

8.4.2. Key Executives

8.4.3. Operating Business Segments

8.4.4. Product Portfolio

8.4.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.4.6. Key News

8.5 Kyzen Corporation

8.5.1. Company Overview

8.5.2. Key Executives

8.5.3. Operating Business Segments

8.5.4. Product Portfolio

8.5.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.5.6. Key News

8.6 Hubbard-Hall Inc.

8.6.1. Company Overview

8.6.2. Key Executives

8.6.3. Operating Business Segments

8.6.4. Product Portfolio

8.6.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.6.6. Key News

8.7  NOF Metal Coatings Group

8.7.1. Company Overview

8.7.2. Key Executives

8.7.3. Operating Business Segments

8.7.4. Product Portfolio

8.7.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.7.6. Key News

8.8 Pittsburgh Plate Glass (PPG) Industries

8.8.1. Company Overview

8.8.2. Key Executives

8.8.3. Operating Business Segments

8.8.4. Product Portfolio

8.8.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.8.6. Key News

8.9 Eastman Chemical Company

8.9.1. Company Overview

8.9.2. Key Executives

8.9.3. Operating Business Segments

8.9.4. Product Portfolio

8.9.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.9.6. Key News

8.10 Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

8.10.1. Company Overview

8.10.2. Key Executives

8.10.3. Operating Business Segments

8.10.4. Product Portfolio

8.10.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.10.6. Key News

8.11 AICHELIN Group

8.11.1. Company Overview

8.11.2. Key Executives

8.11.3. Operating Business Segments

8.11.4. Product Portfolio

8.11.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.11.6. Key News

8.12 Callington Haven Pty Ltd.

8.12.1. Company Overview

8.12.2. Key Executives

8.12.3. Operating Business Segments

8.12.4. Product Portfolio

8.12.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.12.6. Key News

8.13 Wilhelmsen

8.13.1. Company Overview

8.13.2. Key Executives

8.13.3. Operating Business Segments

8.13.4. Product Portfolio

8.13.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.13.6. Key News

8.14  Avesta Finishing Chemicals

8.14.1. Company Overview

8.14.2. Key Executives

8.14.3. Operating Business Segments

8.14.4. Product Portfolio

8.14.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.14.6. Key News

8.15  Quaker Chemical Corporation

8.15.1. Company Overview

8.15.2. Key Executives

8.15.3. Operating Business Segments

8.15.4. Product Portfolio

8.15.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.15.6. Key News

8.16 Chemtex Specialty Limited

8.16.1. Company Overview

8.16.2. Key Executives

8.16.3. Operating Business Segments

8.16.4. Product Portfolio

8.16.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.16.6. Key News

8.17 Böhler Welding

8.17.1. Company Overview

8.17.2. Key Executives

8.17.3. Operating Business Segments

8.17.4. Product Portfolio

8.17.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.17.6. Key News

8.18 BASF SE

8.18.1. Company Overview

8.18.2. Key Executives

8.18.3. Operating Business Segments

8.18.4. Product Portfolio

8.18.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.18.6. Key News

8.19 Surface Innovation LLP

8.19.1. Company Overview

8.19.2. Key Executives

8.19.3. Operating Business Segments

8.19.4. Product Portfolio

8.19.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.19.6. Key News

8.20 Septimo Chemicals PVT. Ltd.

8.20.1. Company Overview

8.20.2. Key Executives

8.20.3. Operating Business Segments

8.20.4. Product Portfolio

8.20.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.20.6. Key News

Global Pickling Chemicals Market Segmentation

Pickling Chemicals by Type: Market Size & Forecast 2023-2030

• Aqueous Solution
• Paste or Gel
• Concentrated Solution

Pickling Chemicals by End User: Market Size & Forecast 2023-2030

• Steel and Metallurgy
• Steel and Metal Recycling Industries
• Industrial Chemical
• Food & Beverages
• Water or Waste Water Treatment Equipment
• Electroplating, Others

Pickling Chemicals by Geography: Market Size & Forecast 2023-2030

• North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (Germany, UK, France, Russia, Italy, Rest of Europe)
• Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, India, Southeast Asia, Rest of Asia-Pacific)
• South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Rest of South America)
• Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Rest of MEA)

Major Players:

• Septimo Chemicals PVT. Ltd.
• Surface Innovation LLP
• BASF SE
• Böhler Welding
• Chemtex Specialty Limited
• Quaker Chemical Corporation
• Avesta Finishing Chemical
• Wilhelmsen
• Callington Haven Pty Ltd.
• AICHELIN Group
• Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
• Eastman Chemical Company
• Pittsburgh Plate Glass (PPG) Industries
• NOF Metal Coatings Group
• Kyzen Corporation
• Atotech
• AXALTA Coating Systems
• Hubbard-Hall Inc.