Adiponitrile Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity & Forecast, Segmented By Application (Nylon Synthesis, HDI, Electrolyte Solution, Others), By End User (Chemical Intermediate, Automotive, Electrical & Electronics, Textile, Others), By Region & Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Adiponitrile Market was valued at USD 10.80 Billion in 2024 and is anticipated to project steady growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 3.10% through 2030. The global adiponitrile (ADN) market plays a crucial role within the chemical industry, primarily driven by its indispensable function in the production of nylon 6,6. ADN, an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H8N2, is a vital intermediate in the synthesis of hexamethylenediamine (HMDA), which is then used to produce nylon 6,6. This material is highly valued across industries such as automotive, textiles, electronics, and industrial applications for its durability, thermal stability, and abrasion resistance.

The automotive sector is one of the primary consumers of nylon 6,6, where it is used in a range of components including engine covers, airbags, and fuel systems. The growing emphasis on manufacturing lightweight vehicles—driven by the need to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions—has significantly propelled demand for adiponitrile. This trend is expected to continue, positioning the ADN market for consistent growth over the forecast period.

Key factors contributing to this growth include the expanding demand for nylon 6,6 across diverse industries, along with technological innovations such as the development of bio-based adiponitrile. Also, the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is anticipated to further elevate demand, with nylon 6,6 being essential in the production of components like battery housings and connectors in EVs.

The global adiponitrile market is poised for steady growth, driven by its critical role in producing nylon 6,6 and the material’s broad application across key industries. However, market participants must address challenges such as raw material price fluctuations and increasing environmental regulations to fully capitalize on emerging growth opportunities.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Nylon 6,6

The global adiponitrile market is intrinsically linked to the demand for nylon, particularly nylon 6,6, as adiponitrile is a key raw material in its production. Nylon 6,6 is a high-performance polymer known for its exceptional strength, thermal stability, and resistance to wear and chemicals, making it indispensable across a wide range of industries. Nylon 6,6 is widely used in industries such as automotive, textiles, electronics, and industrial manufacturing. The growing demand for nylon 6,6 in these sectors directly translates to increased consumption of adiponitrile, as it is the primary precursor for hexamethylenediamine (HMDA), which is further polymerized to produce nylon 6,6. The automotive sector is one of the largest consumers of nylon 6,6. It is used in manufacturing lightweight, durable components such as engine covers, air intake manifolds, radiator end tanks, and fuel systems. The global shift toward lightweight vehicles to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions has significantly boosted the demand for nylon 6,6, thereby driving the adiponitrile market. Lightweight materials can reduce vehicle weight by up to 10%, leading to a 6-8% improvement in fuel efficiency. This has led to a surge in demand for nylon 6,6 in automotive applications. Nylon 6,6 is extensively used in the production of high-performance textiles, including apparel, carpets, and industrial fabrics. Its durability, resistance to abrasion, and ability to retain shape under stress make it a preferred material in this sector. The global textile industry is projected to grow at a steady rate, with increasing demand for technical textiles used in industries such as healthcare, construction, and agriculture. Nylon 6,6 is used in electrical connectors, circuit breakers, and other components due to its excellent electrical insulation properties and heat resistance. The growth of the electronics industry, particularly in emerging economies, has further fueled demand. The global electronics market is expanding rapidly, driven by the proliferation of consumer electronics, IoT devices, and renewable energy systems. Nylon 6,6 is used in industrial applications such as conveyor belts, gears, and bearings due to its high mechanical strength and resistance to wear and tear.

The expansion of end-use industries that rely on nylon 6,6 is a significant driver of the adiponitrile market. The automotive industry is experiencing growth in emerging markets such as India, China, and Southeast Asia, where rising disposable incomes and urbanization are increasing vehicle ownership. The electronics industry is booming due to advancements in technology, such as 5G, electric vehicles (EVs), and smart devices, all of which require high-performance materials like nylon 6,6. The construction and infrastructure sectors are also contributing to demand, as nylon 6,6 is used in materials like coatings, adhesives, and sealants. The global trend toward lightweight and sustainable materials is driving the demand for nylon 6,6, which in turn boosts the adiponitrile market. Nylon 6,6 is a preferred material for replacing heavier metals in automotive and industrial applications, as it offers comparable strength at a fraction of the weight. Additionally, the development of bio-based nylon 6,6 is gaining traction, further increasing the demand for adiponitrile. The use of lightweight materials in vehicles can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 20-30 grams per kilometer, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Automotive Industry Growth and Lightweight Vehicles

The growth of the automotive industry, particularly the shift toward lightweight vehicles, is a significant driver of the global adiponitrile market. Adiponitrile is a key intermediate in the production of nylon 6,6, a versatile, high-performance polymer widely used in the automotive sector for various components. The demand for lightweight vehicles, driven by stringent fuel efficiency and carbon emission regulations, directly influences the growth of adiponitrile consumption. Nylon 6,6, produced through the use of adiponitrile, is extensively used in automotive manufacturing due to its high strength, thermal stability, and resistance to wear and abrasion. It is used in under-the-hood components, engine covers, fuel system parts, airbags, and interior trims. The automotive industry's growing emphasis on durability, safety, and cost efficiency drives the demand for nylon 6,6 in these applications. As the automotive sector focuses on improving performance and safety standards, materials like nylon 6,6—derived from adiponitrile—are becoming increasingly essential in engine compartments, where high temperatures and mechanical stresses are common. This makes adiponitrile an indispensable raw material for the growing automotive market, ensuring continuous demand from manufacturers. Global sales of electric Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) surged by over 50% in 2023, with their market share rising to nearly 5%. Among the largest markets, China and Europe experienced substantial growth in electric LCV sales, aligning with a broader trend of increasing sales across both electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) LCVs. In China, electric LCV sales surpassed 240,000, while in Europe, the market saw a 60% growth, reaching nearly 150,000 units. This growth underscores the growing adoption of electric LCVs in key global markets.

The global push for improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions is another critical factor in driving the demand for lightweight automotive components. Governments across the globe are enforcing stricter emission standards, which compel automakers to adopt lightweight materials that help reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel economy. The lightweighting trend focuses on reducing the weight of vehicles to improve fuel efficiency, lower CO2 emissions, and enhance overall vehicle performance. As one of the key materials for achieving this goal, nylon 6,6—produced through adiponitrile—offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, enabling its widespread use in structural parts, engine components, and fuel systems. These applications help reduce the weight of vehicles, directly aligning with the automotive industry’s sustainability goals and supporting the adiponitrile market’s growth. With advancements in automotive design and manufacturing techniques, there has been an increased emphasis on high-performance polymers in the development of lightweight, fuel-efficient vehicles. Nylon 6,6 is a preferred material for automotive structural parts and engine components because of its mechanical strength, heat resistance, and dimensional stability. These characteristics enable automakers to optimize the performance and efficiency of vehicles while meeting regulatory requirements. As automotive manufacturers continue to innovate and use advanced materials in design, the demand for adiponitrile, which is used to produce these materials, will continue to rise, supporting the growth of the global adiponitrile market.

Shift Toward Electric Vehicles (EVs)

The shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) is one of the most significant growth drivers for the global adiponitrile market, primarily due to the increasing demand for nylon 6,6, which is produced using adiponitrile. As electric vehicle production accelerates, the need for high-performance materials like nylon 6,6 intensifies, especially for components requiring lightweight and durable materials. Nylon 6,6, a polymer produced using adiponitrile as an intermediate, is an essential material in the automotive industry, including electric vehicles (EVs). It is used in various automotive components, particularly in under-the-hood parts, battery housings, connectors, cables, and wiring systems. These components require materials that are not only strong and heat-resistant but also lightweight to optimize the overall performance of the EV. In 2023, global registrations of new electric cars surged to nearly 14 million, bringing the total number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road to 40 million. This growth aligns closely with the Global EV Outlook 2023 (GEVO-2023) sales forecast. The 2023 sales increase marked a 35% year-on-year growth, with 3.5 million more electric cars sold than in 2022, representing more than a sixfold increase compared to 2018. The registration rate reached over 250,000 new EVs per week, surpassing the total annual registrations in 2013, just a decade prior. In terms of market share, electric cars accounted for 18% of global car sales in 2023, up from 14% in 2022 and a mere 2% in 2018, reflecting the rapidly accelerating adoption of electric mobility worldwide.

The demand for lightweight materials is especially crucial in EVs as it directly impacts battery efficiency and driving range. Nylon 6,6, derived from adiponitrile, offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal choice for producing strong, durable, and lightweight components in EVs. This shift towards high-performance materials like nylon 6,6 positions adiponitrile as a key enabler in the growing EV market. As the demand for electric vehicles rises, so does the need for efficient battery systems. Adiponitrile, through its contribution to the production of nylon 6,6, plays an important role in the production of battery housings and connectors. Nylon 6,6 is preferred for these applications due to its excellent thermal stability, electrical insulation properties, and resistance to mechanical stress. These properties are critical for EV batteries, which must operate in challenging conditions of high energy demands and thermal fluctuations. As the global EV market continues to grow, manufacturers are incorporating more nylon 6,6 into their battery components, which directly drives the demand for adiponitrile. The rapid expansion of the lithium-ion battery market, which is projected to experience significant growth as part of the EV surge, provides an ongoing boost to adiponitrile consumption. The global demand for sustainability is widespread, though its intensity differs by region. Studies indicate that 79% of consumers in emerging markets such as China, India, and Indonesia express concerns about environmental sustainability, compared to just 55% in more developed markets like the US and Europe. This disparity highlights the stronger emphasis on sustainability in fast-growing economies, where environmental issues are becoming increasingly significant to consumers.

The global shift towards EVs is being driven by government regulations, consumer demand for eco-friendly options, and advancements in EV technology. As governments implement stricter emission standards and provide incentives for the purchase of EVs, the demand for electric vehicles is expected to continue increasing. EV production is not only expanding in established automotive markets like North America and Europe but also growing rapidly in emerging markets such as China, India, and Southeast Asia. In these markets, automotive manufacturers are scaling up EV production to meet both domestic demand and international export opportunities. The increasing production of electric vehicles creates an expanding market for nylon 6,6 components used in the manufacture of battery systems, connectors, and cables, thereby stimulating the demand for adiponitrile.

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Key Market Challenges

Fluctuations in Raw Material Prices

Fluctuations in raw material prices emerge as a critical impediment to the expansive growth of the global Adiponitate market. The market is intricately tied to the availability and cost dynamics of key raw materials essential in the production of Adiponitrate. Unpredictable shifts in material prices, driven by factors such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, or market speculation, introduce volatility into production costs. This inherent uncertainty complicates pricing strategies, making it challenging for manufacturers to offer competitive and stable prices in the global market. Consequently, this obstacle hampers the broader adoption of Adiponitate across industries.

Industry stakeholders must navigate this challenge through strategic supply chain management, risk mitigation measures, and exploration of alternative sourcing options. By addressing these price fluctuations proactively, the Adiponitate market can enhance its resilience, ensuring sustainable growth on a global scale.

Environmental Concerns

Environmental concerns pose a substantial obstacle to the global expansion of the Activated Alumina market. As sustainability becomes a focal point for industries worldwide, heightened awareness of environmental impacts has led to increased scrutiny of industrial processes and materials. Activated Alumina, while valued for its adsorption properties, may face challenges due to its production processes and potential environmental footprint.

Issues such as energy consumption, waste generation, and emissions associated with the manufacturing of Activated Alumina have raised alarms among environmentally conscious consumers and regulatory bodies. To overcome this obstacle, market participants need to invest in eco-friendly production methods, adopt circular economy principles, and emphasize the recyclability and reusability of Activated Alumina. Addressing these environmental concerns is not only essential for compliance with evolving regulations but also crucial for securing a sustainable and responsible position in the global market, fostering long-term growth and acceptance.

Key Market Trends

Increasing Demand for High Purity Adiponitrile in in Emerging Markets

The global Adiponitrile (ADN) market is experiencing a transformative shift fueled by the increasing demand for high-purity ADN in emerging markets. ADN serves as a crucial building block in the production of nylon 6,6, a versatile polymer used in various industries, including textiles, automotive, and electronics. The surge in demand for high-purity ADN can be attributed to the rapid industrialization and economic growth witnessed in emerging markets. As these regions undergo significant development, there is a heightened need for advanced materials such as nylon for applications ranging from durable textiles to lightweight automotive components.

Activated Alumina plays a pivotal role in this scenario, acting as a catalyst in the hydrogenation process essential for ADN production. The demand for high-purity ADN is particularly pronounced in the automotive sector within emerging markets, where the production of lightweight and durable materials is paramount. Additionally, the electronics industry, witnessing substantial growth in these markets, further contributes to the increased demand for ADN, as it is integral to the production of electronic components.

The catalytic properties of Activated Alumina are instrumental in ensuring the quality and purity of ADN, meeting the stringent standards required by industries dependent on this chemical intermediate. As a result, the increasing demand for high-purity ADN in emerging markets is a key trend driving the growth of the global Adiponitrile market. This trend not only reflects the evolving needs of industries in these regions but also underscores the pivotal role of Activated Alumina in facilitating the production of high-quality ADN for diverse applications.

Development of New Production Methods

The global Adiponitrile (ADN) market is experiencing a significant growth trend, propelled by the ongoing development of new production methods. Innovations in manufacturing techniques are playing a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness of ADN production, consequently driving market expansion. One noteworthy example is the emergence of bio-based production methods. Companies are increasingly exploring bio-derived feedstocks, such as renewable raw materials, as alternatives to traditional fossil-based inputs in ADN synthesis. This shift not only aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices but also diversifies the raw material base, contributing to a more resilient and environmentally friendly ADN production process.

Furthermore, advancements in catalysis and reactor design represent another facet of the evolving production landscape. Novel catalysts and improved reactor configurations enhance the selectivity and yield of ADN, leading to more streamlined and resource-efficient manufacturing processes. For instance, the integration of advanced catalysts, like metal-based catalysts supported by materials such as Activated Alumina, has shown promise in optimizing the hydrogenation step in ADN production. This not only improves the overall efficiency of the process but also allows for better control over product quality.

As these innovative production methods gain traction, they are expected to reshape the dynamics of the global Adiponitrile market. Companies adopting these technologies are likely to gain a competitive edge by offering sustainable and high-quality ADN solutions, meeting the evolving demands of industries such as textiles, automotive, and electronics. In conclusion, the development of new production methods stands out as a key trend, driving both the growth and sustainability of the global Adiponitrile market.

Segmental Insights

Application Insights

Based on the application, The nylon synthesis segment is witnessed fastest market growth in the global adiponitrile market, driven by the remarkable properties of nylon, including tensile strength and abrasion resistance, which make it suitable for a wide range of applications from clothing and carpets to mechanical parts and industrial components. The synthesis of Nylon-6,6 begins with the hydrogenation of adiponitrile, producing hexamethylenediamine, a critical compound in the process. This compound, derived from adiponitrile, reacts with adipic acid in a polycondensation reaction, forming nylon-6,6, which is characterized by its long-chain polymer structure with alternating amide linkages. This unique structure endows the material with exceptional mechanical properties, including high tensile strength and resistance to wear.

Nylon produced from adiponitrile is widely used across industries. In textiles, it is favored for producing durable and lightweight fabrics, while in the automotive and aerospace sectors, it plays a critical role in the manufacturing of engine components, gears, and bearings due to its superior mechanical properties and high-temperature resistance. Moreover, adiponitrile plays a significant role in the production of Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDI), a key component in high-performance polyurethane products. The synthesis of HDI starts with the reaction of adiponitrile, also known as hexanedinitrile, with formaldehyde, producing 1,6-diaminohexane—an essential intermediate. This intermediate undergoes cyclization, resulting in the production of HDI.

HDI is primarily used in the production of polyurethane coatings and adhesives. Known for their durability, chemical resistance, and versatility, polyurethane coatings derived from HDI are extensively used in automotive refinishing, industrial equipment coatings, and architectural applications. These coatings provide robust protective layers that extend the lifespan of surfaces while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.

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Regional Insights

Based on the region, Asia Pacific region emerged as the dominant region in the global Adiponitrile market in 2024, holding the largest market share in terms of both value and volume. The Asia Pacific region's growing manufacturing footprint, population growth, and ongoing industrialization are all factors contributing to the rise in demand for adiponitrile. This region is linked to some of the biggest manufacturing economies in the world, including those of China, Japan, South Korea, and Indian region.

Notably, In April 2022, Shandong Longhua New Material, a leading manufacturer and distributor of chemical products with a primary focus on plastics and polymers, was established in 2011. The company went public in 2020 on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange and currently holds a market capitalization of 5.9 billion yuan (approximately $920 million).

In a recent development, Longhua has announced plans to invest 7.3 billion yuan ($1.1 billion) in the construction of China’s largest Nylon 66 production facility. This new plant will significantly enhance the company's production capacity and market presence.

Nylon 66, a high-performance polymer known for its mechanical strength and thermal stability, is widely used in a variety of applications, including textile fibers, carpets, and injection-molded parts, particularly in automotive components and zip ties. Historically, Nylon 66 was also used in the production of the iconic Remington .22 rifle, produced from 1959 to 1989.

Globally, fewer than 100 companies manufacture Nylon 66, with prominent players such as Mitsubishi and West Michigan Compounding among the key industry leaders. The market for Nylon 66 experienced a significant disruption during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in 2020, when factories in northern Italy, which supply the apparel industry, were forced to shut down, creating a global shortage of the material.

Recent Developments

• In December 2024, Ascend Performance Materials has announced the successful production of acrylonitrile, hexamethylene diamine, adipic acid, and nylon 6,6 using feedstocks derived from used cooking oil, thereby expanding its Bioserve portfolio. The resulting nylon 6,6 boasts a 25% reduction in product carbon footprint compared to nylon 6,6 produced from traditional fossil-fuel based feedstocks. This advancement aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability and further strengthens its position in the eco-friendly materials market.
• In October 2024, INVISTA has announced the decision to continue hexamethylene diamine (HMD) production at its facility in Orange, Texas. Following last year’s announcement regarding the cessation of adiponitrile (ADN) and HMD operations at the same site, evolving circumstances have led to a change in direction. The site has demonstrated its capability to operate as an HMD-only facility, maintaining safe, reliable, and competitive operations. As part of its strategic focus, INVISTA's Upstream Nylon business will prioritize enhancing its ability to consistently supply nylon 6,6 value chain products, from ADN to polymer, ensuring continued reliability for its customers.
• In July 2024, Zhejiang NHU has announced an investment of CNY 10 billion (USD 1.3 billion) to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Tianjin focused on producing engineering plastic nylon and essential raw materials, including adiponitrile. This strategic move aims to break the longstanding monopoly on adiponitrile production held by a few international players. Leveraging its proprietary technology, NHU will produce high-value intermediate chemicals, including adiponitrile and diaminohexane, to support its nylon production, enhancing its competitiveness in the global market.
• In November 2022, INVISTA Nylon Chemicals (China) Co. has officially opened its state-of-the-art adiponitrile (ADN) plant at the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park (SCIP). Representing an investment exceeding 7 billion RMB (over US USD1 billion), this facility has a production capacity of 400,000 tons per year, making it the largest capital investment project in the company's history. This strategic expansion is set to enhance local production capabilities for nylon 6,6, a critical component in INVISTA’s integrated value chain, and contribute significantly to advancing the high-quality development of China’s chemical industry.
• In August 2022, China achieved a historic milestone with the commencement of industrial production of its first domestically developed adiponitrile in Zibo, Shandong Province. This breakthrough, led by China National Chemical Engineering Group (CNCEC), ends foreign monopolies in key material production, addressing supply chain vulnerabilities. The project, initiated in May 2020, focuses on adiponitrile, a crucial raw material for nylon 66, extensively used in automotive, aerospace, and construction. This achievement aims to enhance China's technological independence and establish a robust supply chain for advanced manufacturing.
• In January 2022, INVISTA (China) Investment Co., Ltd. and China Pingmei Shenma Group recently formalized a strategic relationship through agreements for the five-year purchase and sale of adiponitrile (ADN) and adipic acid (AA). Additionally, INVISTA Textiles (U.K.) Limited will license key technologies, including nylon 6,6 polymerization and nitrous oxide abatement, contributing to China's carbon reduction goals with an estimated 13 to 14 million metric tons per year of CO2-equivalent emissions reduction.

Key Market Players

• Asahi Kasei Corp
• Ascend Performance Materials
• BASF SE
• Butachimie
• INVISTA
• Kishida Chemical Co. Ltd
• Merck KgaA
• Spectrum Chemical Mfg. Corp.
• Tokyo Chemical Industry Co. Ltd
• Vizag Chemical International

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Adiponitrile Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Adiponitrile Market, By Application:

o   Nylon Synthesis

o   HDI

o   Electrolyte Solution

o   Others

• Adiponitrile Market, By End User:

o   Chemical Intermediate

o   Automotive

o   Electrical & Electronics

o   Textile

o   Others  

• Adiponitrile Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Adiponitrile Market.

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Company Information

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