Demand has risen by 40% since 2005, says Research and Markets

Global use of biocides in plastics has grown 40% in 10 years, a report has revealed. The Research and Markets report shows that the market for biocides in plastics at active manufacture level had soared to $145m (E113m) in 2005. This significant rise since 1995 is attributed to industry growth, new regulations, technological development and the growing use of biocides as hygiene aids.

And the report predicts that the market will continue to grow as biocides are being used in an increasing number of polymer types. Traditional biocides are being replaced by more expensive environmentally-friendly biocides. It is said that this will also increase the value of the overall market.

North American growth is said to have slowed down, despite still accounting for 40% of the speciality biocides market, which includes bactericides and fungicides. This is largely because competition from outside North America has increased. Meanwhile, China, India and countries in eastern Europe and South America continue to offer growth opportunities as income levels rise and human health issues become more important.