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    Chelating Agent Market

    ID: MRFR/CnM/0621-HCR
    200 Pages
    Chitranshi Jaiswal
    October 2025

    Chelating Agents Market Research Report By Application (Agriculture, Household Cleaning, Industrial Cleaning, Personal Care, Paper and Pulp), By Type (EDTA, NTA, DTPA, GLDA), By Functionality (Water Softening, Metal Decontamination, pH Regulation), By End Use (Agricultural Chemicals, Food and Beverage, Textile, Pharmaceuticals) and By Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa) - Forecast to 2035

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    Chelating Agent Market Infographic
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    Chelating Agent Market Summary

    As per MRFR analysis, the Chelating Agents Market Size was estimated at 4.06 USD Billion in 2024. The Chelating Agents industry is projected to grow from 4.194 USD Billion in 2025 to 5.803 USD Billion by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.3 during the forecast period 2025 - 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    The Chelating Agents Market is currently experiencing a dynamic shift towards sustainability and innovation.

    • North America remains the largest market for chelating agents, driven by robust industrial applications and regulatory compliance.
    • The Asia-Pacific region is emerging as the fastest-growing market, fueled by increasing demand in agriculture and household cleaning products.
    • In the agriculture segment, chelating agents like EDTA dominate, while DTPA is rapidly gaining traction in household cleaning applications.
    • Rising demand in agriculture and expansion in water treatment applications are key drivers propelling market growth.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 4.06 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 5.803 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025 - 2035) 3.3%

    Major Players

    BASF SE (DE), Dow Chemical Company (US), AkzoNobel N.V. (NL), FMC Corporation (US), Lanxess AG (DE), Nouryon (NL), Chemetall GmbH (DE), Tosoh Corporation (JP), Mitsubishi Corporation (JP)

    Chelating Agent Market Trends

    The Chelating Agents Market is currently experiencing a dynamic evolution, driven by various factors that influence its growth trajectory. The increasing demand for these agents across multiple industries, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and water treatment, appears to be a primary catalyst. As environmental regulations become more stringent, industries are seeking effective solutions to manage metal ions and enhance product performance. This trend suggests a growing awareness of the importance of sustainability and efficiency in manufacturing processes, which could further propel the market forward. Moreover, advancements in technology and research are likely to introduce innovative chelating agents that cater to specific applications. The emergence of bio-based chelating agents, which are perceived as more environmentally friendly alternatives, may also reshape market dynamics. As consumers and industries alike prioritize eco-conscious products, the Chelating Agents Market could witness a shift towards greener solutions. Overall, the interplay of regulatory pressures, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences indicates a promising outlook for the Chelating Agents Market in the foreseeable future.

    Sustainability Focus

    The increasing emphasis on sustainable practices across various sectors is shaping the Chelating Agents Market. Companies are actively seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional agents, which may lead to a rise in demand for bio-based chelating agents. This trend reflects a broader commitment to reducing environmental impact and enhancing product safety.

    Technological Innovations

    Ongoing research and development efforts are likely to yield new formulations and applications for chelating agents. Innovations in this field may enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of these agents, catering to specific industry needs. Such advancements could potentially redefine market standards and expand the scope of applications.

    Regulatory Compliance

    Stricter regulations regarding chemical usage in various industries are influencing the Chelating Agents Market. Companies are compelled to adopt compliant solutions that minimize environmental harm. This trend may drive the demand for chelating agents that meet regulatory standards, thereby shaping product development and market strategies.

    Chelating Agent Market Drivers

    Rising Demand in Agriculture

    The Chelating Agents Market is experiencing a notable increase in demand from the agricultural sector. Chelating agents are utilized in fertilizers to enhance nutrient availability and uptake by plants. This is particularly crucial as the need for sustainable agricultural practices intensifies. According to recent data, the use of chelating agents in agriculture is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 5% over the next few years. This growth is driven by the necessity to improve crop yields and soil health, which are essential for food security. As farmers seek to optimize their inputs, the role of chelating agents becomes increasingly vital, thereby propelling the Chelating Agents Market forward.

    Growth in Personal Care Products

    The Chelating Agents Market is witnessing growth due to the rising incorporation of chelating agents in personal care products. These agents are utilized to enhance product stability and efficacy by binding metal ions that can cause degradation. The personal care sector is increasingly focusing on product quality and consumer safety, leading to a higher demand for formulations that include chelating agents. Market analysis suggests that the personal care segment could see a growth rate of approximately 4% in the coming years, driven by consumer preferences for high-quality and effective products. This trend highlights the importance of chelating agents in maintaining the integrity of personal care formulations, thereby supporting the overall growth of the Chelating Agents Market.

    Increased Industrial Applications

    The Chelating Agents Market is benefiting from increased applications across various industrial sectors. Industries such as textiles, pulp and paper, and metal finishing utilize chelating agents for their ability to bind metal ions, which enhances product quality and process efficiency. The textile industry, in particular, is adopting chelating agents to improve dyeing processes and reduce water usage. Recent data indicates that the industrial segment is likely to grow at a rate of around 5% annually, reflecting the ongoing need for efficient and sustainable industrial practices. This trend suggests that the Chelating Agents Market will continue to expand as industries seek to optimize their operations and reduce environmental impact.

    Technological Advancements in Production

    The Chelating Agents Market is poised for growth due to technological advancements in the production of chelating agents. Innovations in manufacturing processes are leading to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly chelating agents. These advancements not only improve the performance of chelating agents but also reduce production costs, making them more accessible to various industries. As companies invest in research and development, the market is likely to see the introduction of novel chelating agents that cater to specific applications. This trend indicates a dynamic shift within the Chelating Agents Market, as technological progress continues to drive product innovation and market expansion.

    Expansion in Water Treatment Applications

    The Chelating Agents Market is significantly influenced by the expansion of water treatment applications. Chelating agents are employed to remove heavy metals and other contaminants from water, making them essential in both industrial and municipal water treatment processes. The increasing awareness of water quality and safety is driving investments in advanced water treatment technologies. Recent statistics indicate that the water treatment segment is expected to account for a substantial share of the Chelating Agents Market, with a projected growth rate of around 6% annually. This trend underscores the critical role of chelating agents in ensuring clean and safe water, which is becoming a priority for many regions.

    Market Segment Insights

    By Application: Agriculture (Largest) vs. Household Cleaning (Fastest-Growing)

    In the Chelating Agents Market, the application segment is notably diverse, with agriculture holding the largest share due to its critical role in enhancing nutrient availability in soil and water. Following closely are household cleaning and industrial cleaning, which have also registered substantial market shares as demand for eco-friendly cleaning products continues to rise. Meanwhile, segments like personal care and paper and pulp account for smaller portions of the market yet are vital for their respective applications, contributing to overall market dynamics.

    Agriculture: Dominant vs. Household Cleaning: Emerging

    Agriculture stands out as the dominant application segment in the Chelating Agents Market, driven by the increasing adoption of precision farming techniques and the need for efficient nutrient management in crops. Chelating agents in this sector help in preventing nutrient deficiencies and enhancing crop yields. On the other hand, household cleaning is swiftly emerging as a significant player, propelled by consumer preferences shifting towards safer and more sustainable cleaning products. This segment leverages chelating agents to improve product efficacy and stability, catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly options in households.

    By Type: EDTA (Largest) vs. DTPA (Fastest-Growing)

    The Chelating Agents Market is primarily dominated by EDTA, which holds a significant share due to its extensive applications in industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. In contrast, DTPA is emerging as a fast-growing segment, mainly driven by its enhanced stability and effectiveness in various applications, including metal ion control and agricultural formulations. The competitive landscape indicates a strong preference for EDTA, though DTPA is gradually capturing market attention given its unique advantages. Growth trends indicate an increasing demand for environmentally friendly and efficient chelating agents, with DTPA leading the charge in this regard. The shift towards sustainable practices and regulatory support for greener alternatives are key drivers bolstering DTPA's market growth. Meanwhile, EDTA continues to benefit from its versatility and established presence across numerous sectors, although competition is intensifying as newer chelating agents like DTPA gain traction among users seeking improved performance characteristics.

    EDTA (Dominant) vs. GLDA (Emerging)

    EDTA is recognized as the dominant player in the Chelating Agents Market due to its widespread application across various industries, offering high performance in complexing metal ions. It is extensively utilized in agriculture, healthcare, and industrial processes, providing reliable and effective solutions to combat metal toxicity. In contrast, GLDA is emerging prominently as a sustainable alternative, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and industries. GLDA is derived from renewable resources and is increasingly preferred in personal care and cleaning applications due to its biodegradable nature. While EDTA remains a staple, the growing acceptance and demand for GLDA highlight the industry's shift towards greener solutions, positioning GLDA as a formidable competitor in the market.

    By Functionality: Water Softening (Largest) vs. Metal Decontamination (Fastest-Growing)

    In the Chelating Agents Market, the functionality segment reveals a diverse distribution of applications. Water softening remains the largest segment, as it plays a crucial role in preventing scaling and improving detergent efficiency across various industries. Following closely is metal decontamination, which is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing environmental regulations and a rising demand for clean-up solutions for heavy metal pollution in industrial processes. pH regulation, while essential, occupies a smaller portion of this segment.

    Water Softening (Dominant) vs. Metal Decontamination (Emerging)

    Water softening stands as a dominant functionality in the Chelating Agents Market, characterized by its widespread adoption in domestic and industrial applications. Its ability to effectively bind metal ions makes it essential for enhancing the performance of soaps and detergents. Conversely, metal decontamination, categorized as an emerging functionality, is gaining traction amid intensifying environmental concerns. This segment focuses on the use of chelating agents to clean up and remove toxic metals from various environments, particularly contaminated water sources and soil. Both segments highlight the necessity for chelating agents in maintaining both utility and safety in varied settings.

    By End Use: Agricultural Chemicals (Largest) vs. Pharmaceuticals (Fastest-Growing)

    The Chelating Agents Market exhibits a significant distribution among various end-use segments, with Agricultural Chemicals emerging as the largest segment. This dominance is driven by the extensive utilization of chelating agents in fertilizers and crop protection products. In contrast, the Pharmaceuticals segment, though smaller in overall market share, is rapidly gaining traction due to increasing applications in drug formulations and diagnostics, making it a critical area for growth in the coming years. Growth trends in the Chelating Agents Market are influenced by factors such as the rising demand for sustainable agricultural practices and the need for improved formulations in pharmaceuticals. The focus on environmentally friendly alternatives is propelling the agricultural chemicals segment, while the shift towards advanced therapeutic options in the pharmaceutical sector is spurring innovation and expansion, indicating a dynamic future for these segments.

    Agricultural Chemicals (Dominant) vs. Pharmaceuticals (Emerging)

    The Agricultural Chemicals segment remains dominant in the Chelating Agents Market, characterized by a wide range of applications in enhancing the efficiency of fertilizers and crop protection agents. This dominance stems from the critical role that chelating agents play in improving nutrient absorption in plants, thereby increasing agricultural productivity. On the other hand, the Pharmaceuticals segment is emerging rapidly, driven by the need for chelating agents in drug delivery systems and as excipients in formulations. The growth in pharmaceuticals is fueled by innovations in medical therapies and a greater emphasis on precise drug formulations, setting the stage for its significant expansion in the market.

    Get more detailed insights about Chelating Agent Market

    Regional Insights

    The  Chelating Agents Market is characterized by diverse regional dynamics contributing to its overall growth. In 2024, the market is anticipated to achieve a valuation of 4.06 USD billion, with North America leading at 1.2 USD Billion, showcasing a significant demand driven by agricultural and industrial applications. Europe follows closely with a valuation of 1.1 USD billion in the same year, supported by stringent environmental regulations promoting the use of biodegradable chelating agents.

    The Asia Pacific region, valued at 1.3 USD Billion, plays a crucial role due to rapid industrialization and increasing agricultural activities, indicating its dominance in the market.South America, with a valuation of 0.3 USD Billion in 2024, is emerging slowly but holds potential due to its growing agricultural sector. The Middle East and Africa, valued at 0.16 USD billion, represent a smaller share but are expected to grow steadily due to investments in water treatment and mining industries.

    Overall, the regional segmentation of the  Chelating Agents Market underscores the varying demand levels, influenced by distinct regulatory environments and industrial growth trajectories across these regions.

    Chelating Agents Market Regional

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

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    The  Chelating Agents Market is increasingly characterized by fierce competition, with numerous players vying for market share amidst rising demand across various industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and water treatment. Chelating agents have gained prominence due to their ability to form stable complexes with metal ions, thereby enhancing product efficacy and performance. The dynamic nature of this market is influenced by several factors, including technological innovations, changing regulations, and evolving consumer preferences.

    As industries seek efficient and sustainable solutions to manage metal ion contaminants, the competitive landscape is marked by both established companies and new entrants that continuously innovate and adapt their offerings to meet the needs of diverse applications.Curasept has established a strong foothold in the  Chelating Agents Market, leveraging its extensive research capabilities to develop high-quality products tailored to specific industry requirements. The company enjoys a reputation for its commitment to quality and innovation, which has enabled it to cultivate long-lasting relationships with its clients.

    Curasept's strategic focus on customer satisfaction, alongside a robust product development pipeline, has positioned the company favorably in the market. By investing in advanced manufacturing processes and integrating sustainable practices, Curasept is not only enhancing its operational efficiency but also contributing to the market's shift towards greener solutions. This emphasis on innovation and customer-centricity underscores Curasept's strengths as it navigates the competitive landscape of the  Chelating Agents Market.AdvanSix is prominently positioned within the  Chelating Agents Market, known for its comprehensive portfolio of products that caters to a wide array of applications.

    The company specializes in producing aminopolycarboxylate chelating agents, among other offerings, that demonstrate exceptional performance in industrial processes. AdvanSix's market presence is bolstered by its commitment to research and development, ensuring that it stays ahead in delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers. The company has also engaged in strategic mergers and acquisitions to expand its reach and enhance its product offerings, thereby reinforcing its competitive edge in this burgeoning market.

    With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, AdvanSix continues to strengthen its position as a key player, aiming to meet stringent environmental regulations while providing innovative solutions to its clientele on a  scale.

    Key Companies in the Chelating Agent Market market include

    Industry Developments

    • Q2 2024: Procter & Gamble Reformulates Cleaning Products with Safer Chelating Agents Procter & Gamble announced the reformulation of several household cleaning products to include safer chelating agents such as EDDS and GLDA, aligning with EPA Safer Choice Program requirements and supporting the shift toward phosphate-free cleaning agents.
    • Q2 2024: EPA Updates Safer Choice Program to Include New Chelating Agents The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency updated its Safer Choice Program, officially listing new biodegradable chelating agents such as GLDA and EDDS, encouraging manufacturers to adopt these alternatives in cleaning and personal care products.
    • Q2 2024: BASF Launches Trilon M Eco, a Biodegradable Chelating Agent for Industrial Applications BASF SE introduced Trilon M Eco, a new biodegradable chelating agent designed for use in industrial cleaning and water treatment, targeting customers seeking sustainable solutions.
    • Q2 2024: Nouryon Expands Dissolvine Production Facility in the Netherlands Nouryon announced the expansion of its Dissolvine chelating agents production facility in the Netherlands to meet growing demand for eco-friendly chelants in European markets.
    • Q3 2024: Kemira Oyj Opens New R&D Center Focused on Sustainable Chelating Agents Kemira Oyj inaugurated a new research and development center in Finland dedicated to the development of sustainable and biodegradable chelating agents for water treatment and pulp & paper industries.
    • Q3 2024: Dow Inc. Launches Versene Violet, a Next-Generation Chelating Agent for Personal Care Dow Inc. announced the launch of Versene Violet, a new chelating agent designed for use in personal care formulations, offering improved biodegradability and performance.
    • Q3 2024: Mitsubishi Chemical Introduces Aminotron Plus for Water Treatment Applications Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation launched Aminotron Plus, a new chelating agent targeting water treatment applications, emphasizing its enhanced metal ion removal efficiency.
    • Q4 2024: Lanxess AG Expands Baypure Production Capacity in Germany Lanxess AG announced the expansion of its Baypure chelating agents production capacity at its German facility to address rising demand in the European water treatment and cleaning sectors.
    • Q1 2025: ADM Launches New Citric Acid-Based Chelating Agent for Food Industry ADM introduced a new citric acid-based chelating agent aimed at food processing applications, highlighting its natural origin and compliance with evolving food safety regulations.
    • Q1 2025: Ascend Performance Materials Unveils FlexaTrac-NTA for Industrial Cleaning Ascend Performance Materials launched FlexaTrac-NTA, a novel chelating agent for industrial cleaning, focusing on improved environmental profile and regulatory compliance.
    • Q2 2025: Nouryon Wins Major Contract to Supply Chelating Agents for European Water Utilities Nouryon secured a multi-year contract to supply Dissolvine chelating agents to several European water utilities, supporting large-scale water treatment projects.
    • Q2 2025: BASF SE Appoints New Head of Chelating Agents Division BASF SE announced the appointment of Dr. Anna Müller as the new head of its Chelating Agents Division, signaling a strategic focus on sustainable product innovation.

     

    Future Outlook

    Chelating Agent Market Future Outlook

    The Chelating Agents Market is projected to grow at a 3.3% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by increasing demand in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and water treatment sectors.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Development of biodegradable chelating agents for eco-friendly applications.
    • Expansion into emerging markets with tailored product offerings.
    • Investment in R&D for innovative chelating solutions in industrial processes.

    By 2035, the Chelating Agents Market is expected to achieve robust growth, reflecting evolving industry needs.

    Market Segmentation

    Chelating Agent Market Type Outlook

    • EDTA
    • NTA
    • DTPA
    • GLDA

    Chelating Agent Market End Use Outlook

    • Agricultural Chemicals
    • Food and Beverage
    • Textile
    • Pharmaceuticals

    Chelating Agent Market Application Outlook

    • Agriculture
    • Household Cleaning
    • Industrial Cleaning
    • Personal Care
    • Paper and Pulp

    Chelating Agent Market Functionality Outlook

    • Water Softening
    • Metal Decontamination
    • pH Regulation

    Report Scope

    MARKET SIZE 20244.06(USD Billion)
    MARKET SIZE 20254.194(USD Billion)
    MARKET SIZE 20355.803(USD Billion)
    COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)3.3% (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 eco-friendly chelating agents in agriculture and industrial applications presents significant opportunities.
    Key Market DynamicsRising demand for biodegradable chelating agents driven by environmental regulations and consumer preference for sustainable products.
    Countries CoveredNorth America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Chitranshi Jaiswal
    Research Analyst Level I

    In her 3 years of experience in the market research field, she has handled critical cross-domain projects. She has an in-depth knowledge of market estimation & analysis, problem-solving, primary as well as secondary research, and team management.She holds an engineering degree and is an MBA professional from a well-known university, capable of evaluating the market and competitive conditions. An exceptional strategist with excellent communication skills and a passion for delivering cutting-edge & practical insights for the market. Proficient in multi-tasking, and can successfully deal with competing demands, while maintaining complete confidentiality. Generated business through active client and project development, networking, and high-quality responses. Her knowledge and skills have helped in making solid business decisions, securing funding from investors, and avoiding business failures.

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    FAQs

    What is the expected market size of the Chelating Agents Market in 2024?

    In 2024, the Chelating Agents Market is expected to be valued at 4.06 USD billion.

    What is the projected market size of the Chelating Agents Market by 2035?

    By 2035, the Chelating Agents Market is projected to reach a value of 5.8 USD billion.

    What is the expected CAGR for the Chelating Agents Market from 2025 to 2035?

    The expected CAGR for the Chelating Agents Market from 2025 to 2035 is 3.3%.

    Which application is expected to dominate the Chelating Agents Market in terms of value in 2024?

    In 2024, the Agriculture application segment is expected to be valued at 1.2 USD Billion, making it a dominant application in the market.

    How much is the North American segment of the Chelating Agents Market valued at in 2024?

    The North American segment of the Chelating Agents Market is valued at 1.2 USD Billion in 2024.

    What is the expected market size for the Industrial Cleaning application by 2035?

    By 2035, the Industrial Cleaning application segment is expected to reach a value of 1.4 USD billion.

    Who are the major players in the Chelating Agents Market?

    Major players in the Chelating Agents Market include Curasept, AdvanSix, Syngenta, Kemira, SABIC, and BASF, among others.

    What is the market size forecast for the Paper and Pulp application by 2035?

    The Paper and Pulp application segment is forecasted to grow to 0.3 USD billion by 2035.

    How is the market for Chelating Agents expected to grow in the Asia Pacific region by 2035?

    The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow to a market size of 1.8 USD billion by 2035.

    What is the market value for the Household Cleaning application in 2025?

    In 2025, the Household Cleaning application segment is part of a combined market projection that will contribute to a total expected value of 0.9 USD Billion in 2024 and a growth to 1.2 USD billion by 2035.

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