Isophthalic Acid Market is gaining rapid traction with extensive applications in PET bottle resins and robust demand from the automotive & marine sectors

 

Isophthalic Acid is a diterpenoid alkaloid having the formula C, O, H-Methylisothiazolinone. This white, transparent liquid is a derivative of the coloring substance ephedra. It may also contain small amounts of flavonoids, terpenoids, cinnamic acids, and quercetin. It was developed by the Medical College of Georgia but is now marketed under several trade names. When it comes to geographical impact, Asia Pacific is exhibiting high traction in the isophthalic acid market. This is typically due to the fact that isophthalic acid is widely used in the manufacturing of corrosion-resistant pipes and tanks in emerging economies such as India and China. On the contrary, Middle East is registering promising signs due to rising construction activities.

Polymers composed of isophthalic acid have been utilized for coating a number of surfaces, including synthetic rubbers, metal alloys, polyester fiber, and isopropyl alcohol polymer (rubbed on stainless steel). Isophthalic acids, in their isopropyl esters, form a protective coating capable of resisting corrosion and oxidation, especially with prolonged exposure. These polymers are most commonly seen in polyester coatings. Isophthalic acid is one of the primary constituents of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle resins. The demand for PET bottles has increased over the years with growing demand for water consumption. Recently, in February 2021, Coca-Cola introduced 100% recycled PET bottles in the U.S. markets. Hence, such factors can stimulate growth of the isophthalic acid market in the near future.

Isophthalic acids, along with other polyester polymers, are currently being explored for their use as antimicrobial coatings and as components of pharmaceuticals and food packaging. Other applications for polyesters with this polymeric compound include coating fabrics and clothing to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction, as well as coating the interior surface of medical devices for easy drainage. That being said, there are certain aspects of the market that could potentially limit the development. For instance, reduced degradability of isophthalic acid-derived resins has become a major hindrance. There are concerns regarding regulations that could potentially impede growth of the isophthalic acid market.

A number of different natural sources contain isophthalic acid, including certain fruits, vegetables, and pharmaceuticals. It may also be derived from a number of industrial processes, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and paint. Apart from PET bottle manufacturing, isophthalic acid is widely used in many end-use industries such as automotive, construction, and marine. In the automotive sector, the high-performance polymer polybenzimidazole is produced from isophthalic acid, which is then used as corrosion-resistant pipes. Therefore, these factors can augment growth of the isophthalic acid market in the near future.