×
  • Cat-intel
  • MedIntelliX
  • Resources
  • About Us
  • Request Free Sample ×

    Kindly complete the form below to receive a free sample of this Report

    Leading companies partner with us for data-driven Insights

    clients tt-cursor
    Hero Background

    Caprolactam Market

    ID: MRFR/CnM/1657-CR
    100 Pages
    Priya Nagrale
    September 2022

    Caprolactam Market Research Report Information By Application (Nylon 6 Fibers, Nylon 6 Resins), By End-Use (Textile Yarn, Industrial Yarn, Engineering Plastics), And By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World) – Market Forecast Till 2030.

    Share:
    Download PDF ×

    We do not share your information with anyone. However, we may send you emails based on your report interest from time to time. You may contact us at any time to opt-out.

    Caprolactam Market Infographic
    Purchase Options

    Caprolactam Market Summary

    As per MRFR analysis, the Caprolactam Market Size was estimated at 17.87 USD Billion in 2024. The Caprolactam industry is projected to grow from 18.91 USD Billion in 2025 to 33.22 USD Billion by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8 during the forecast period 2025 - 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    The Caprolactam Market is poised for growth driven by sustainability and technological advancements.

    • North America remains the largest market for caprolactam, primarily due to its established industrial base.
    • Asia-Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region, fueled by increasing demand for nylon products.
    • Nylon 6 continues to dominate the market, while nylon 6 resins are experiencing rapid growth in applications.
    • Key market drivers include rising demand for nylon 6 and a growing focus on sustainable practices in production.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 17.87 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 33.22 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025 - 2035) 5.8%

    Major Players

    BASF SE (DE), Honeywell International Inc. (US), Lanxess AG (DE), Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. (JP), Ube Industries, Ltd. (JP), Fibrant B.V. (NL), Ascend Performance Materials LLC (US), China National Petroleum Corporation (CN)

    Caprolactam Market Trends

    The Caprolactam Market is currently experiencing a dynamic phase characterized by evolving demand patterns and technological advancements. The increasing utilization of caprolactam in the production of nylon and other synthetic fibers is driving growth. Additionally, the rising awareness regarding sustainable practices is prompting manufacturers to explore eco-friendly production methods. This shift towards sustainability may reshape the competitive landscape, as companies strive to meet consumer expectations while adhering to regulatory standards. Furthermore, the expansion of the automotive and textile industries is likely to bolster the demand for caprolactam, indicating a robust outlook for the market in the coming years. In the present context, the Caprolactam Market appears poised for further development, with innovations in production processes and applications. The integration of advanced technologies, such as automation and digitalization, could enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. Moreover, the potential for caprolactam in emerging applications, including coatings and adhesives, suggests a diversification of its market presence. As stakeholders navigate these trends, the Caprolactam Market may witness a transformation that aligns with global economic shifts and environmental considerations.

    Sustainability Initiatives

    The Caprolactam Market is increasingly influenced by sustainability initiatives. Manufacturers are exploring greener production methods to reduce environmental impact. This trend reflects a broader commitment to eco-friendly practices, which may attract environmentally conscious consumers and investors.

    Technological Advancements

    Technological advancements are reshaping the Caprolactam Market. Innovations in production techniques and automation are enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. These developments may lead to improved product quality and increased competitiveness among market players.

    Diversification of Applications

    The diversification of applications for caprolactam is a notable trend. Beyond traditional uses in textiles, there is growing interest in its potential in coatings, adhesives, and other sectors. This expansion could open new avenues for growth and market penetration.

    Caprolactam Market Drivers

    Rising Demand for Nylon 6

    The Caprolactam Market is experiencing a notable increase in demand for Nylon 6, a polymer derived from caprolactam. This surge is primarily driven by the expanding automotive and textile sectors, where Nylon 6 is favored for its strength, durability, and lightweight properties. In 2023, the demand for Nylon 6 was projected to reach approximately 5 million tons, indicating a robust growth trajectory. As industries seek materials that enhance performance while reducing weight, the Caprolactam Market is poised to benefit significantly. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of Nylon 6 in various applications, including industrial fibers and consumer goods, suggests a sustained demand that could bolster caprolactam production and consumption in the coming years.

    Growth in Automotive Sector

    The Caprolactam Market is likely to witness substantial growth due to the automotive sector's expansion. As manufacturers increasingly utilize caprolactam-derived materials for components such as fuel lines, airbags, and interior trims, the demand for caprolactam is expected to rise. In 2023, the automotive industry accounted for nearly 30% of the total caprolactam consumption, reflecting its critical role in driving market dynamics. The trend towards lightweight materials in vehicles, aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions, further underscores the importance of caprolactam in this sector. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Caprolactam Market may experience a corresponding increase in demand, potentially leading to innovations in production processes and applications.

    Diversification of End-Use Applications

    The Caprolactam Market is witnessing a diversification of end-use applications, which is contributing to its growth. Beyond traditional uses in textiles and automotive, caprolactam is increasingly being utilized in sectors such as electronics, packaging, and consumer goods. This expansion into new markets is driven by the material's favorable properties, including chemical resistance and thermal stability. In 2023, the electronics sector accounted for approximately 15% of caprolactam consumption, highlighting its emerging role in this industry. As manufacturers seek versatile materials that meet diverse application requirements, the Caprolactam Market is likely to see sustained demand across various sectors, fostering innovation and development in product offerings.

    Technological Innovations in Production

    Technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in shaping the Caprolactam Market. Innovations in production processes, such as the development of more efficient catalytic methods and the integration of automation, are enhancing the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of caprolactam manufacturing. In recent years, several companies have reported a reduction in production costs by up to 15% due to these technological improvements. Furthermore, advancements in recycling technologies are enabling the recovery of caprolactam from waste materials, thereby promoting a circular economy. As these technologies continue to evolve, the Caprolactam Market is likely to benefit from increased production capacities and reduced environmental impact, positioning it favorably for future growth.

    Increasing Focus on Sustainable Practices

    Sustainability initiatives are becoming increasingly prominent within the Caprolactam Market. As environmental concerns grow, manufacturers are exploring eco-friendly production methods and alternative feedstocks for caprolactam synthesis. The shift towards sustainable practices is not only driven by regulatory pressures but also by consumer preferences for environmentally responsible products. In 2023, approximately 20% of caprolactam producers reported investments in sustainable technologies, indicating a significant trend towards greener production. This focus on sustainability could enhance the market's appeal, attracting new customers and fostering partnerships with companies committed to reducing their carbon footprint. As the Caprolactam Market adapts to these changes, it may unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

    Market Segment Insights

    By Application: Nylon 6 (Largest) vs. Nylon 6 Resins (Fastest-Growing)

    In the Caprolactam Market, Nylon 6 holds a significant position as the largest application segment, contributing notably to the overall demand. Its extensive use in textiles, automotive, and consumer goods lends it a competitive edge. On the other hand, Nylon 6 Resins, while currently smaller in market share, are rapidly gaining traction owing to their versatility and durability in various industrial applications. This growth signifies a shift in demand towards more specialized resin applications, making them an increasingly important segment.

    Nylon 6 (Dominant) vs. Nylon 6 Resins (Emerging)

    Nylon 6, characterized by its excellent tensile strength and elasticity, dominates the Caprolactam market due to its widespread application across various industries, particularly in textiles and automotive components. Its proven reliability and extensive distribution networks solidify its market leader status. Conversely, Nylon 6 Resins are emerging rapidly, benefiting from trends favoring lightweight materials that offer high performance. Their growing use in packaging and electrical components reflects evolving consumer preferences for sustainability and efficiency, marking a significant shift in the market landscape.

    By End-Use: Textile Yarn (Largest) vs. Engineering Plastics (Fastest-Growing)

    The Caprolactam Market showcases a diverse distribution of end-use applications, prominently featuring Textile Yarn, Industrial Yarn, and Engineering Plastics. Textile Yarn holds the largest share in the market, driven by its essential role in the textile industry, whereas Engineering Plastics is catching up rapidly in growth and demand due to its versatile applications in various sectors like automotive and electronics. Industrial Yarn, while significant, tends to follow a more stable growth trajectory compared to these two.

    Textile Yarn (Dominant) vs. Engineering Plastics (Emerging)

    Textile Yarn plays a dominant role in the Caprolactam Market, as it is primarily utilized in the production of various fabrics and textiles. The demand for high-quality fabrics and sustainable textiles contributes to its robust market position. In contrast, Engineering Plastics represent an emerging segment, increasingly favored due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to environmental factors. These materials are now being adopted in state-of-the-art applications, ranging from automotive components to consumer electronics, highlighting a trend towards lightweight, durable solutions. As such, Engineering Plastics are positioned to gain significant market traction in the coming years.

    Get more detailed insights about Caprolactam Market

    Regional Insights

    By region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. Asia Pacific led the market in 2014 and is expected to continue its dominance over the forecast period. Rapid industrialization leading to the establishment of numerous automotive and appliance manufacturing plants, particularly in India and China, is likely to have a positive impact on industry growth over the forecast years. In addition, the increasing demand for passenger cars in India and China, owing to the rise in disposable incomes is expected to further boost product demand.

    Figure 3:  CAPROLACTAM MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2023 (%)CAPROLACTAM MARKET SHARE BY REGION

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

    Increasing demand for lightweight materials in developed regions, including North America and Europe, is expected to have a positive impact on the industry over the next seven years. In the automotive industry, metals are replaced with engineered plastics in lightweight vehicles on account of various properties such as low moisture absorption and high mechanical strength.

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Major market players are spending a lot of money on R&D to increase their product lines, which will help the Caprolactam market grow even more. Market participants are also taking a range of strategic initiatives to grow their worldwide footprint, with key market developments such as new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations. Competitors in the Caprolactam industry must offer cost-effective items to expand and survive in an increasingly competitive and rising market environment.

    The major market players are investing a lot of money in R&D to expand their product lines, which will spur further market growth for Caprolactam. With significant market development like new product releases, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations, market participants are also undertaking various strategic activities to expand their global presence. To grow and thrive in a market climate that is becoming more competitive and growing, competitors in the Caprolactam industry must offer affordable products.

    Manufacturing locally to cut operating costs is one of the main business tactics manufacturers use in the global caprolactam industry to benefit customers and expand the market sector. The low-profile additives market has recently given medicine some of the most important advantages. Major Caprolactam market players, including BASF SE (Germany), Honeywell International Inc (US), Kuibyshevazot (Russia), China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec Limited) (China), and others, are attempting to increase market demand by funding R&D initiatives.

    BASF is a company that provides petrochemicals, intermediates, performance materials, monomers, dispersions and pigments, performance chemicals, catalysts, coatings, and care chemicals. It conducts its operations through six business segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition and Care, and Agricultural Solutions.

    Also, Honeywell International is a software-industrial company that invents and commercializes technologies in energy, safety, security, productivity, and global urbanization. It operates through four segments: Aerospace, Honeywell Building Technologies, Performance Materials and Technologies, and Safety and Productivity Solutions.

    Key Companies in the Caprolactam Market market include

    Industry Developments

    • Q2 2024: BASF to Expand Caprolactam Production Capacity at Antwerp Site BASF announced an investment to expand its caprolactam production capacity at its Antwerp, Belgium site, aiming to meet growing demand from the engineering plastics and fiber industries. The expansion is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
    • Q1 2024: China’s Sinopec Starts Up New Caprolactam Plant in Hubei Sinopec launched operations at a new caprolactam production facility in Hubei province, China, with an annual capacity of 200,000 tons, strengthening its position in the Asian nylon supply chain.
    • Q2 2024: AdvanSix Appoints Erin Kane as CEO to Drive Caprolactam Business Growth AdvanSix announced the appointment of Erin Kane as Chief Executive Officer, emphasizing her role in advancing the company’s caprolactam and nylon product lines for global markets.
    • Q3 2024: Sumitomo Chemical and Toray Form Joint Venture for Caprolactam Production Sumitomo Chemical and Toray Industries established a joint venture to develop and operate a new caprolactam manufacturing facility in Japan, targeting increased supply for the automotive and textile sectors.
    • Q2 2024: Grupa Azoty Secures €100 Million Loan for Caprolactam Plant Modernization Poland’s Grupa Azoty obtained a €100 million loan to modernize its caprolactam production plant, aiming to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions in line with EU environmental standards.
    • Q1 2025: INEOS Launches Bio-Based Caprolactam Product Line INEOS announced the commercial launch of a new bio-based caprolactam product line, offering a sustainable alternative for nylon-6 manufacturers and supporting the circular economy.
    • Q2 2025: China’s Hengyi Petrochemical Expands Caprolactam Output in Brunei Hengyi Petrochemical completed an expansion of its caprolactam production facility in Brunei, increasing annual output by 100,000 tons to supply Southeast Asian textile and plastics markets.
    • Q1 2024: LANXESS Sells Caprolactam Business to Focus on Specialty Chemicals LANXESS divested its caprolactam business unit to a consortium of Asian investors, as part of its strategy to concentrate on higher-margin specialty chemicals.
    • Q3 2024: Toray Industries Announces New Caprolactam Plant in Thailand Toray Industries revealed plans to build a new caprolactam manufacturing facility in Thailand, aiming to serve the growing Southeast Asian nylon market with a capacity of 150,000 tons per year.
    • Q2 2024: BASF and SABIC Sign Long-Term Caprolactam Supply Agreement BASF and SABIC entered into a long-term supply agreement for caprolactam, ensuring stable raw material sourcing for both companies’ nylon-6 production lines in Europe and the Middle East.
    • Q4 2024: Ube Industries Completes Upgrade of Caprolactam Plant in Spain Ube Industries finished a major upgrade of its caprolactam plant in Castellón, Spain, increasing production efficiency and reducing the facility’s carbon footprint.
    • Q1 2025: INEOS Signs Supply Contract with European Automotive OEM for Caprolactam INEOS secured a multi-year supply contract to provide caprolactam to a leading European automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM), supporting the production of lightweight nylon components.

    Future Outlook

    Caprolactam Market Future Outlook

    The Caprolactam Market is projected to grow at a 5.8% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by increasing demand in textiles, automotive, and electronics sectors.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Expansion into bio-based caprolactam production methods
    • Development of high-performance nylon 6 applications
    • Strategic partnerships with automotive manufacturers for lightweight materials

    By 2035, the Caprolactam Market is expected to achieve robust growth and enhanced market positioning.

    Market Segmentation

    Caprolactam Market End-Use Outlook

    • Textile Yarn
    • Industrial Yarn
    • Engineering Plastics

    Caprolactam Market Application Outlook

    • Nylon 6
    • Nylon 6 Resins

    Report Scope

    MARKET SIZE 202417.87(USD Billion)
    MARKET SIZE 202518.91(USD Billion)
    MARKET SIZE 203533.22(USD Billion)
    COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)5.8% (2024 - 2035)
    REPORT COVERAGERevenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    BASE YEAR2024
    Market Forecast Period2025 - 2035
    Historical Data2019 - 2024
    Market Forecast UnitsUSD Billion
    Key Companies ProfiledMarket analysis in progress
    Segments CoveredMarket segmentation analysis in progress
    Key Market OpportunitiesGrowing demand for sustainable nylon production presents opportunities in the Caprolactam Market.
    Key Market DynamicsRising demand for nylon production drives caprolactam market growth amid evolving consumer preferences and regulatory pressures.
    Countries CoveredNorth America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Priya Nagrale
    Senior Research Analyst

    With an experience of over five years in market research industry (Chemicals & Materials domain), I gather and analyze market data from diverse sources to produce results, which are then presented back to a client. Also, provide recommendations based on the findings. As a Senior Research Analyst, I perform quality checks (QC) for market estimations, QC for reports, and handle queries and work extensively on client customizations. Also, handle the responsibilities of client proposals, report planning, report finalization, and execution

    Leave a Comment

    FAQs

    How much is the Caprolactam market?

    The Caprolactam Market size was valued at USD 16.41 Billion in 2022.

    What is the growth rate of the Caprolactam market?

    The global market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.80% during the forecast period, 2025-2035.

    Which region held the largest market share in the Caprolactam market?

    Asia Pacific had the largest share of the Caprolactam Market.

    Who are the key players in the Caprolactam market?

    The key players in the market are Zochem (US), SILOX SA (Belgium), American Chemet Corporation (US), H. Chemicals (Canada), Rubamin (India), Grillo Zinkoxid GmbH (Germany), Pan-Continental Chemical Co., Ltd (Taiwan), Mario Pilato Blat, and SA (Spain)

    Which Application led the Caprolactam market?

    The Nylon 6 categories dominated the market in 2023.

    Which End-use led the Caprolactam market?

    The Textile yarn had the largest share in the global market for Caprolactam.

    Download Free Sample

    Kindly complete the form below to receive a free sample of this Report

    Case Study
    Chemicals and Materials

    Compare Licence

    ×
    Features License Type
    Single User Multiuser License Enterprise User
    Price $4,950 $5,950 $7,250
    Maximum User Access Limit 1 User Upto 10 Users Unrestricted Access Throughout the Organization
    Free Customization
    Direct Access to Analyst
    Deliverable Format
    Platform Access
    Discount on Next Purchase 10% 15% 15%
    Printable Versions