Complex formulations driving growth in surfactants and silicones

Recent market reports from the Freedonia Group indicate that there is significant potential for further growth in both these markets during the course of the next three years, with the market for surfactants set to grow $3.4bn and the silicones market set to top $3.8bn.

The rise in popularity of these chemicals is chiefly being attributed to the personal care sector because of increasingly innovative formulations that are focused on functionality, efficacity and desirable textures.

The surfactants family of chemicals is used in personal care products primarily as a wetting agent to lower the surface tension of a liquid, making it easier to spread and to combine with other liquids.

They appear in a spectrum of cosmetic and personal care products, from soaps and shampoos to every type of cream and lotion.

According to Freedonia Amphoteric and anionic surfactants will offer the best opportunities, while Fluorosurfactants will grow the fastest, albeit from a small base.

As well as analyzing the 1.6 million pound US specialty surfactant industry as a whole, the study also looks at key players in the industry, including BASF, Rhodia, and Proctor & Gamble.

Silicones are used in a variety of applications across a spectrum on industries, but in the personal care sector they are used for sensory qualities, emolliency, to reduce friction and tension and to provide oxidative stability in finished products ranging from hair care to every type of lotion and cream.

Freedonia's study on silicones suggests that the materials positive market image and strong performance advantage will be the key factors that will continue to drive the category, with silicone gels and foams expected to be key growth areas.

The study also outlines the key product areas within the silicones sector as well as considering the key players.