Muconic Acid Market Insights, 2014-2020

Muconic Acid Market- An Overview

Muconic acid is a dicarboxylic acid, which is obtained in three isomers- cis, cis trans-muconic, cis, cis-muconic and cis, trans-muconic acids.

A TMR study projects the global muconic acid market to touch a valuation of US $ 86.54 Mn by the end of 2020.

Muconic acid has gained prominence in recent times, with the increasing demand for nylon around the world.  Companies have been obtaining muconic acid through a fermentation process, with the help of genetically modified microbial species.

Muconic acid has emerged as a fundamental raw material in the manufacture of products such as polyurethane, nylon 6, 6, and polyethylene terephthalate.

Polyethylene terephthalate has been identified as the most frequently used polymer in the world and is used as a fiber in clothing and also in large-scale packaging of food products.

Adipic Acid- A Crucial Derivative of Muconic Acid Used in Wide Range of Applications

Adipic acid, an important derivative of muconic acid, is a white crystalline solid, which melts at a temperature of 152 degree Celsius and is a crucial monomer in the polymer industry. 

Adipic acid is used as a monomer in nylon, copolyamides, terpolymers, and paper additives.

It is anticipated to contribute significantly to the overall muconic acid market in future.

Commercially, adipic acid is produced by the oxidation of cyclohexane, which yields cyclohexanone (K) and cyclohexanol (A), called KA oil. This oil further combines with nitric acid and with the help of a catalyst, helps to produce adipic acid.

It is easily biodegradable and is preferred over cyclohexane due to its eco-friendly nature and better physical and chemical characteristics.

Adipic acid is the main raw material used in nylon production for composite materials. It is also the first raw material that is used during nylon synthesis.

Some of the other key applications for adipic acid are in areas such as lubricants, solvents, glass protection agents, leather tanning agents, cleaning aids, and soil conditioners. It is used in the pharmaceutical industry, as well.

Carpets, Textile Segments Expected to Account for Largest Share in Muconic Acid Market in Future

A few other derivatives of muconic acid include hexamethylenediamine and adiponitrile. 

Hexamethylenediamine is a colorless solid chemical that has an amine odour and is a key chemical used in nylon 6, 6 production. In addition to nylon 6,6, hexamethylenediamine is also used in the manufacturing of nylon 69, nylon 610, and nylon 612.

It is also extensively used in the chemical industry. Hexamethylenediamine is used as a corrosion and scale inhibitor in water treatment plants.

In terms of application, carpets and textile segments together are anticipated to account for the largest share in the overall muconic acid market, in future. The plastic segment is expected to be behind them in the overall muconic acid market.

North America Expected to Hold a Major Share in the Global Muconic Acid Market in Future

North America is anticipated to hold a large share in the global muconic acid market, in future. The carpets and textiles application segments are expected to propel the muconic acid market, in this region.

Europe is expected to witness substantial growth in the muconic acid market, as well because of the increasing use of nylon, in this region. Government legislation pertaining to rise incarbon emission in several European countries are anticipated to increase muconic acid usage in nylon production.

Asia Pacific is projected to witness slow growth in the muconic acid market since the market here is still at a developing stage and does not have many prominent companies, functioning out of there.

Key muconic acid market players, however, are looking to expand their presence in this region in future. Research and development undertakings could also help in the growth of the muconic acid market, in Asia Pacific in future.

Some of the important players in the global muconic acid market include Myriant Corporation, Santa Cruz Biotechnology, and Sigma-Aldrich.