Antimicrobial Plastics Market

Growing demand for healthcare applications is driving the market growth

The rising number of advanced technologies drives Market CAGR for antimicrobial plastics. Antimicrobial plastics are increasingly used in the healthcare industry for medical devices, hospital equipment, and packaging. The need to prevent the spread of infections and cross-contamination has led to adoption of antimicrobial plastics in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. With the outbreak of COVID-19, the demand for antimicrobial plastics in the healthcare industry has surged significantly.

Additionally, the pandemic has raised awareness about the importance of hygiene and cleanliness in healthcare and other industries, such as food and beverage and consumer goods. It has led to increased demand for antimicrobial plastics in packaging, which helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms on surfaces and, thus, reduces the risk of infection.

The development of new and improved antimicrobial agents and techniques is driving the growth of the antimicrobial plastics market. For instance, the use of silver nanoparticles and copper ions as antimicrobial agents has been gaining popularity due to their effectiveness against various microorganisms. Additionally, researchers are exploring using nanotechnology and other advanced materials to create more effective antimicrobial plastics that are also environmentally sustainable. It has grown regularly over the past few years, driven by increasing demand from different industries, such as healthcare, packaging, and consumer goods.

For instance, the Antimicrobial Plastics Market is expected to continue rising over the coming years, driven by increasing demand from different end-use industries and technological advancements driving the revenue of the Antimicrobial Plastics market.

The Global Antimicrobial Plastics Market Industry experiences a surge in demand for hygiene products, driven by increasing consumer awareness regarding health and sanitation. Antimicrobial plastics are increasingly utilized in various applications, including medical devices, food packaging, and consumer goods. As of 2024, the market is valued at approximately 1.45 USD Billion, reflecting a growing trend towards materials that inhibit microbial growth. This heightened focus on hygiene is likely to propel the market further, as industries seek to enhance product safety and longevity, thereby contributing to the overall growth of the Global Antimicrobial Plastics Market Industry.

By Region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. The Asia-Pacific antimicrobial plastics market will dominate due to the increasing demand for healthcare services and the growing use of packaged food and beverages. The healthcare industry is the largest user of antimicrobial plastics in the Asia Pacific. Hospitals and other healthcare facilities use these materials in various applications, including medical equipment, hospital furniture, and building materials. The packaging industry manufacturers use these materials to maintain hygiene and safety standards and extend the shelf life of their articles.

Further, the major countries studied in the market report are The U.S., Canada, German, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

Figure 2: ANTIMICROBIAL PLASTICS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (%)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

Europe's Antimicrobial Plastics market accounts for the second-largest market share due to the high incidence of HAIs and the need for safe and hygienic food packaging. The healthcare industry is the largest user of antimicrobial plastics in Europe. Hospitals and other healthcare facilities use these materials in various applications, including medical devices, surgical instruments, and hospital furniture. Further, the German Antimicrobial Plastics market held the largest market share, and the UK Antimicrobial Plastics market was the fastest-growing market in the European region.

The North American Antimicrobial Plastics Market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR from 2023 to 2032. It is due to the high prevalence of healthcare-associated infections and the growing demand for packaged food and beverages. Moreover, China’s Antimicrobial Plastics market held the largest market share, and the Indian Antimicrobial Plastics market was the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.

For instance, the Antimicrobial Plastics Market is growing rapidly, driven by the rising demand for these materials in various industries, including healthcare, packaging, and consumer goods.

Leading market players are investing heavily in research and development to expand their product lines, which will help the Antimicrobial Plastics market grow even more. Market participants are also undertaking various strategic activities to expand their global footprint, with important market developments including new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, higher investments, and collaboration with other organizations. To expand and survive in a more competitive and rising market climate, the Antimicrobial Plastics industry must offer cost-effective items.

Manufacturing locally to minimize operational costs is one of the key business tactics manufacturers use in the global Antimicrobial Plastics industry to benefit clients and increase the market sector. The Antimicrobial Plastics industry has recently offered some of the most significant medical advantages. Major players in the Antimicrobial Plastics market, including BASF SE (Germany), Clariant AG (Switzerland), Lonza (Switzerland), PolyOne Corporation (US), Microban International Ltd. (US), PARX Plastics N.V (The Netherlands), King Plastic Corporation (US), BioCote Limited (UK), Sanitized AG (Switzerland), Americhem Inc (US), and others, are attempting to increase market demand by investing in research and development operations.

Microban International found in 1984 and incorporated in the US. It is the world's leading antimicrobial and odor control brand. Microban's extensive technology portfolio represents the world's biggest range of antimicrobial additives, offering a choice of both metal-based and metal-free chemistries. These solutions are utilized across various sectors, including automotive, consumer electronics, construction, food service, home appliances, packaging, and healthcare. In 2021, Microban International partnered with Sunbeam Products to manufacture antimicrobial knife handles to make the handles hygienic and bacteria-free.

LG Chem Ltd., often called LG Chemical, is in South Korea. It is a leading chemical company that provides various products like ethylene, propylene, derivatives, acrylic, and plasticizers. In 2021, LG Chem launched an antimicrobial plastic product called 'Biosafe,' made from polyolefin resin and featured an antimicrobial agent that helps prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The product suits various applications, including medical devices, consumer electronics, and automotive components.