Market Challenges And Opportunities

Drivers

Growing popularity of environment friendly, a non-toxic plasticizer that can replace the highly persistent plasticizers such as phthalates is driving the growth of the citric acid ester market. Citric acid ester is used as a plasticizer to lighten polymers (such as rubber and plastic) and can be used to restrict viscosity. The construction and automotive industries are increasingly have used plastic because it is cost effective and can hold on a variety of shapes. The packaging industry's expanding use of plastics to protect equipment from dust and scratches is also driving up demand for citric acid ester, which gives plastic polymers flexibility. According to the European Plasticizers Association, Over 7.5 million tonnes of plasticizers is consumed annually in Europe. The market is expanding as a result of the growing use of plastics as a substitute for metals in industrial applications.

Consumers are shifting more towards skin care products is influencing the citric acid ester market. Citric acid ester is integrated in all type of cosmetic products including bath products, baby products, soaps, make-up, detergents, hair dyes, hair colours and other skin care products.

Market Restraints

By intake and inhalation, a citric acid ester is taken up by the body and causes eye irritation, lung irritation that results in coughing and nausea, central nervous system depression, and slowness of reflexes. Citric acid ester is highly harmful to aquatic life, hence laws supported by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) may prevent its manufacturing and shipment in underdeveloped nations. This factor is adversely affects the market for citric acid ester.