Global hydrogen peroxide market to reach 4.3 million tonnes by 2012

SAN JOSE, CA, April 17, 2008 (Press Release) - Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is primarily used for the synthesis of organic and inorganic peroxides, peracids and lactones. Elemental chlorine free (ECF) processes and introduction of maximum achievable control technology (MACT) by the EPA in United States and total chlorine free (TCF) processes mandate by the European Union, all of which stipulate reduction of usage of chlorine in bleaching processes, have been the major market drivers for hydrogen peroxide and/or its derivatives.

The US hydrogen peroxide market is estimated at 705 thousand metric tons for 2008, as stated by Global Industry Analysts, Inc. Asia-Pacific represents the fastest growing market, recording a CAGR of 8% over the period 2001-2010. Pulp & paper industry represents the largest end-use market of hydrogen peroxide. Consumption of hydrogen peroxide in pulp and paper industry is expected to be around 2.11 million metric tons by 2010. Hydrogen peroxide consumption in textiles industry is projected to grow at a compounded annual rate of nearly 5.5% over the period 2001-2010. Manufacturers of hydrogen peroxide are making efforts to stop the commoditization of the chemical by offering customized products for different processes within the various end-uses.

On the competitive front, European players dominate the market in both Europe and North America. North American players such as Dow Chemical and FMC also have a significant presence in the market. However, the market is highly scattered in Asia-Pacific region with a large number of small players accounting for large share of the market.

The report titled "Hydrogen Peroxide: A Global Strategic Business Report" published by Global Industry Analysts, Inc., provides a comprehensive review of competitive scenario, industry overview, key applications, product overview, research & development, and recent industry activity. The study provides market data and analytics in volume sales for regions such as United States, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Latin America for the period 1991-2015. End-use segments analyzed include Pulp & Paper, Textiles, Environmental and Chemical Synthesis.

Key players dominating the global hydrogen peroxide market include Arkema, BASF AG, Chang Chun Petrochemical Co, DC Chemicals, Dow Chemical, Eka Chemicals, Evonik Degussa, FMC Corporation, Guangdong Zhongcheng Chemicals, Hansol Chemicals, Kemira, Kingboard Chemical Holdings, Mitsubishi Gas Chemicals, Nippon Peroxide, PT Degussa Peroxide Indonesia and Solvay.