Polyethyleneimine Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Type (Branched, Linear), By Application (Detergents, Adhesives & Sealants, Water Treatment Chemicals, Cosmetics, Paper, Coatings, Inks & Dyes, Others), and Regional Analysis, 2024-2031

Market Definition

The polyethyleneimine (PEI) market refers to the global industry surrounding the production, and application of PEI, a-highly cationic polymer. PEI is widely used in industries such as water treatment, paper manufacturing, adhesives, detergents, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology due to its strong adhesion properties, chemical reactivity, and ability to modify surfaces.

Polyethyleneimine Market Overview

Global polyethyleneimine market size was USD 455.6 million in 2023, which is estimated to be valued at USD 458.5 million in 2024 and reach USD 489.4 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 0.93% from 2024 to 2031.

The rising demand for wastewater treatment chemicals is fueling market expansion. PEI's effective flocculation and coagulation properties are essential for industrial and municipal water treatment, boosting market expansion.

Major companies operating in the global polyethyleneimine industry are NIPPON SHOKUBAI CO., LTD, Shanghai Holdenchem CO.,Ltd., BASF, FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation, SERVA Electrophoresis GmbH, WUHAN BRIGHT CHEMICAL CO. LTD., Ott Scientific company (Polysciences Inc.), Aurora Borealis Control BV, LEAP CHEM Co., Ltd., RTP Company, Thermo Fisher Scientific Chemicals, Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd, Spectrum Chemical, Nanjing Chemical Material Corp, Merck KGaA, and others.

The market is characterized by its diverse applications across industries such as water treatment, paper manufacturing, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

Known for its strong cationic nature and versatile chemical properties, PEI is widely used in surface modification, flocculation, and as a reactive agent in various formulations. Market growth is propelled by demand from both industrial and research sectors, with companies focusing on innovation and product enhancement.

• In May 2024, researchers from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, National Key Research and Development Program of China, and Postdoctoral Research Foundation of China developed a loofah sponge crosslinked polyethyleneimine biochar biofilm reactor for oligotrophic water remediation. This system efficiently removed ammonia, calcium, and phosphate while utilizing low-carbon sources, showcasing its potential for large-scale ecological water treatment applications.

Key Highlights:

1. The global polyethyleneimine market size was recorded at USD 6 million in 2023.
2. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 93% from 2024 to 2031.
3. Asia Pacific held a share of 33.99% in 2023, valued at USD 154.8 million.
4. The branched segment garnered USD 267.7 million in revenue in 2023.
5. The adhesives & sealants segment is expected to reach USD 120.2 million by 2031.
6. Europe is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 0.94% over the forecast period.

Market Driver

"Surging Demand for Wastewater Treatment Chemicals"

The rising demand for wastewater treatment chemicals is fostering the growth of the polyethyleneimine (PEI) market. As industries and municipalities strive to meet stringent environmental regulations, PEI's strong flocculating and chelating properties make it an essential component in water purification.

Its ability to remove heavy metals, organic pollutants, and suspended solids enhances treatment efficiency. With increasing concerns over water scarcity and pollution control, the adoption of PEI-based solutions is expected to surge, fueling market expansion.

• In April 2024, Gradiant launched CURE Chemicals, a portfolio of over 300 specialty formulations for wastewater treatment, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. This development indirectly impacts the market by increasing demand for advanced water treatment chemicals in essential industries worldwide.

Market Challenge

"High Production Costs"

The polyethyleneimine (PEI) market faces challenges due to high production costs, driven by complex manufacturing processes and fluctuating raw material prices. These expenses limit affordability and hinder market expansion.

To overcome this, manufacturers can invest in cost-efficient production technologies, optimize supply chain management, and explore sustainable raw material alternatives. Additionally, government incentives and research into bio-based PEI could reduce dependency on expensive petrochemical sources, making production more economical.

Market Trend

"Shift Toward Sustainable Alternatives"

The polyethyleneimine (PEI) market is witnessing a growing trend toward sustainable alternatives, supported by increasing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures.

Researchers are actively developing bio-based PEI to reduce dependence on petrochemical sources and minimize carbon footprints. These advancements focus on enhancing biodegradability, lowering toxicity, and maintaining the high-performance properties of conventional PEI.

As industries seek eco-friendly solutions, bio-based PEI is expected to gain traction, particularly in applications like water treatment, adhesives, and drug delivery systems.

• In February 2025, a study carried out by the Research Institute for Social Implementation of Chemical Wisdom, Waseda Research Institute for Science and Engineering, and University of Tokyo highlighted that emerging AgNP synthesis methods, including WC-PEI and bio-based approaches, offer superior environmental performance over traditional techniques. The WC-PEI method demonstrated the lowest impact due to its simplified one-pot process and use of non-toxic reagents, enhancing sustainability.

Polyethyleneimine Market Report Snapshot

Market Segmentation

• By Type (Branched and Linear): The branched segment earned USD 267.7 billion in 2023 due to its superior reactivity, high molecular weight, and versatile applications.
• By Application (Detergents, Adhesives & Sealants, Water Treatment Chemicals, and Cosmetics): The adhesives & sealants held a share 24.47% in 2023, attributed to PEI’s superior adhesion, durability, and strong bonding properties across industries.

Polyethyleneimine Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

Asia Pacific polyethyleneimine market captured a share of around 33.99% in 2023, valued at USD 154.8 million. This dominance is reinforced by rapid industrialization, rising demand in water treatment, adhesives, and packaging sectors, and strong manufacturing hubs in China, India, and Japan.

The presence of key chemical producers, coupled with growing investments in wastewater treatment and paper industries, has further fueled regional market expansion. Additionally, the region’s cost-effective production, abundant raw materials, and increasing government initiatives promoting industrial growth have solidified its leading position.

The polyethyleneimine industry in Europe is poised to grow at a CAGR of 0.94% over the forecast period. This growth is propelled by increasing demand for sustainable and bio-based PEI solutions.

Stringent environmental regulations, growing R&D investments, and the rising adoption of PEI in specialty chemicals, adhesives, and coatings further contribute to regional market expansion.

The region’s emphasis on wastewater treatment and advanced material development further boosts demand. Additionally, strategic expansions, collaborations, and technological advancements by key players are fostering regional market expansion .

Regulatory Frameworks

• In the U.S., the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates and enforces environmental policies to safeguard public health and the environment while conducting research.
• In the EU, the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) framework governs chemical safety to mitigate health and environmental risks.

Competitive Landscape

Companies operating in the polyethyleneimine market are prioritizing innovation, sustainability, and regulatory compliance to gain a competitive edge. They are investing in R&D to enhance product performance and reduce environmental impact.

Digital technologies, process optimization, and sustainable materials are key focus areas. Additionally, strategic partnerships and acquisitions help expand market reach and capabilities, ensuring they stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

List of Key Companies in Polyethyleneimine Market:

• NIPPON SHOKUBAI CO., LTD
• Shanghai Holdenchem CO.,Ltd.
• BASF
• FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation
• SERVA Electrophoresis GmbH
• WUHAN BRIGHT CHEMICAL CO. LTD.
• Ott Scientific company (Polysciences Inc.)
• Aurora Borealis Control BV
• LEAP CHEM Co., Ltd.
• RTP Company
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Chemicals
• Tokyo Chemical Industry Co., Ltd
• Spectrum Chemical
• Nanjing Chemical Material Corp
• Merck KGaA