Benzoic acid Industry
Benzoic acid is a carboxylic acid with many industrial uses. It is versatile in that it can be used as an antimicrobial agent or preservative and also as a flavoring agent. It is commonly found in drinks such as carbonated beverages, fruit juices, and hard candies. Benzoic acid has a low toxicity level in humans making it safe for consumption at low levels.
Industries such as pharmaceuticals and food require benzoic acid to produce many products which may have long-term viability. The challenge for industry participants lies in finding solutions for sustainable production of this compound. Currently, the supply of benzoic acid is estimated to be about 10,000 metric tonnes per year and it is anticipated that the demand would rise to over 30,000 metric tonnes in the coming years. However, the use of the benzoic acid has been declining due to people preferring synthetic alternatives.
The market for benzoic acid is estimated to be growing and it is expected to grow at a high CAGR throughout 2021 and beyond. The market for benzoic acid has been divided into different segments such as jewelry & leather products, pharmaceuticals, food & beverages as well as other chemical applications. These segments are categorized based on uses as well as sources (primary production and synthetic).
Benzoic acid is used in the manufacture of many products such as pampering lotion, moisturizer, deodorant, skin cleanser, hair treatment (conditioner), foot cream and cologne. These products are used to treat diseases (including dermatitis) and control the appearance of moles (melanoma). The preservative activity of benzoic acid serves to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause sickness. Benzoic acid also plays a role in enhancing the flavor and aroma of food. It has also been reported that benzoic acid has properties such as antimicrobial and antioxidant properties which are beneficial for human health.
On the other hand, Benzoic acid is also used in the manufacture of biocides such as insecticides and fungicides.
Benzoic acid is formed from ethyl penicillanic acid due to its volatile nature. The process of manufacturing is initiated with a mixture of propylene oxide (PO) and ethylene oxide (EO) which serve as reaction catalysts. Ethyl penicillanic acid serves as raw material for the production of benzoic acid which can be made either by oxidation or hydrolysis depending on the desired outcome.
The demand for benzoic acid is highly affected by the availability of raw materials and prices. Benzoic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in many plants and animals. It is mainly used as food preservative, bactericide, and to prevent the evaporation of moisture in pharmaceuticals.
The global benzoic acid market is primarily driven by growth in the pharmaceutical industry due to increased demand for this product for manufacturing antibiotics, anesthetics, aspirin, acetaminophen, morphine etc. The increasing awareness of health benefits of plant-based diets coupled with higher demand for fresh food products are also driving market growth. In addition to this meat and poultry processing industry increases the requirement of benzoic acid which has further augmented market expansion prospects.
Rising use of this compound in cosmetics and oral care products is also fuelling demand for this product. The market is further expected to witness high production and investment in several new benzoic acid factories across the globe in due course. However, the increasing presence of synthetic alternatives in the market will pose a threat to existing players in the market.
