Metallic Stearates Market Trends

Key Emerging Trends in the Metallic Stearates Market

The International Rubber Study Group projects a global demand for rubber exceeding 35 million tons by the conclusion of 2019. Rubber, a vital component in the manufacturing of various industrial and consumer goods like gloves, tires, hoses, belts, and cables, plays a central role in multiple industries. Metallic stearates, known for their heat stabilizing properties, are extensively employed in the rubber and polymer industry. Their unique attributes, including lubricity, hydrophobicity, and high melting points, render them ideal for a myriad of applications.
One of the primary uses of metallic stearates is as a heat stabilizer in the rubber industry. In the uncured state, rubber tends to stick, and metallic stearates, such as zinc, calcium, and magnesium, serve as crucial additives to prevent this adhesion. These additives facilitate quick cooling of the uncured rubber with water, preventing sticking and allowing efficient storage. Additionally, metallic stearates, owing to their hydrophobic nature, act as mold release agents for cured rubber, ensuring the particles remain on the rubber surface. The escalating global demand for rubber, particularly in tire manufacturing, cosmetics, and medical applications, is anticipated to propel the growth of the global metallic stearates market.
Zinc metallic stearates, specifically, find extensive use as release agents and lubricants in the polymer and rubber industries. Their exceptional clarity and heat stability make them suitable for applications in crystal-grade polystyrene and various polymers. In the polymer industry, metallic stearates are introduced as resin additives to enhance lubrication uniformity in applications. Calcium stearates, on the other hand, function as PVC stabilizers, offering high impact strength. This characteristic broadens their applications as acid scavengers and mold release agents in the plastic industry.
According to PlasticsEurope, a prominent European trade association, global polymer production witnessed an increase from 322 million tons in 2015 to 335 million tons in 2016. In Europe, polymer production rose from 63.93 million tons in 2015 to 70.54 million tons in 2017. Meanwhile, the Gulf Petrochemicals & Chemicals Association reported that polymer production in the GCC reached 27.1 million tons in 2016. This surge in polymer demand is attributed to its diverse applications in packaging, building and construction, electronic appliances, and automobile components, driving the growth of the global metallic stearates market during the forecast period.
the escalating global demand for rubber and polymers, coupled with the multifaceted applications of metallic stearates in the rubber and polymer industries, positions these additives as integral contributors to market growth. The distinctive properties of metallic stearates make them indispensable in preventing sticking, enhancing cooling processes, and serving as vital additives in various industrial applications. The forecast indicates a sustained upward trajectory for the global metallic stearates market.