| Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
| Market Volume (2025) | 11.98 Million tons |
| Market Volume (2030) | 13.58 Million tons |
| CAGR | 2.54 % |
| Fastest Growing Market | Asia Pacific |
| Largest Market | Asia Pacific |
| Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Acetylene Market Analysis
The Acetylene Market size is estimated at 11.98 million tons in 2025, and is expected to reach 13.58 million tons by 2030, at a CAGR of 2.54% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The global industrial gas sector has been experiencing significant transformation amid evolving industrial demands and technological advancements. The metal fabrication industry, a key end-user of acetylene, has shown remarkable resilience despite economic headwinds, with global steel production maintaining steady output levels. According to the World Steel Association, major steel-producing nations have been implementing strategic initiatives to optimize production efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The industry has witnessed a notable shift towards electric arc furnace (EAF) technology, with over 70% of steel production in developed markets now utilizing this method, indicating a sustained demand for industrial gases including acetylene.
The chemical manufacturing landscape has undergone substantial evolution, with the American Chemistry Council reporting that the chemical industry's total worldwide revenue reached USD 4.73 trillion in 2021, marking the highest value in the last 15 years. Major chemical manufacturers are increasingly focusing on sustainable production methods and expanding their production capabilities through strategic investments. This trend is particularly evident in regions like Asia-Pacific and North America, where chemical companies are establishing new production facilities and modernizing existing ones to meet growing demand across various end-user industries.
The market is witnessing a significant shift towards automation and digitalization in manufacturing processes, particularly in metal cutting and welding applications. Advanced cutting technologies and automated welding systems are being integrated with traditional acetylene-based processes to enhance efficiency and precision. The industry has also seen increased adoption of safety measures and monitoring systems, with manufacturers implementing sophisticated gas management systems to ensure optimal usage and minimize waste. These technological advancements are reshaping the way acetylene is utilized across various industrial applications.
Sustainability initiatives and environmental regulations are playing an increasingly crucial role in shaping market dynamics. Major industrial gas companies are investing in cleaner production technologies and exploring ways to reduce carbon emissions in their operations. The industry has witnessed a growing trend towards the development of eco-friendly alternatives and optimization of existing processes to minimize environmental impact. For instance, several leading manufacturers have announced commitments to achieve carbon neutrality in their operations by 2050, driving innovations in production methods and application technologies. This focus on sustainability is expected to continue influencing market development and technological innovation in the coming years.
Acetylene Market Trends
Growing Preference for Acetylene as a Fuel Gas
Acetylene's superior properties as a fuel gas continue to drive its increasing adoption across various industrial applications. Due to its unique triple-bond structure, acetylene achieves the highest flame temperature of 3,090°C (5,594°F) while releasing 54.8 kJ/liter of energy during combustion with oxygen. This exceptional heat intensity enables acetylene to enhance the performance of many applications, particularly in precision-focused heat distribution processes like flame straightening, where other fuel gases lack the ability to achieve the required concentrated heat distribution. The gas generates significantly lower moisture levels compared to alternative fuel gases, making it the only appropriate option for preheating, welding, or brazing high-strength materials.
The metal industry's continued growth and modernization have further strengthened acetylene's position as a preferred fuel gas. According to the International Aluminum Association, global primary aluminum production reached 68.461 million metric tons in 2022, with North American aluminum demand growing by 4.8%. Additionally, the increasing adoption of Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology in steel production, which requires precision heating and cutting capabilities, has boosted acetylene demand. The gas's ability to provide neutral flame settings, crucial for avoiding undesirable reactions in the molten pool during steel welding, makes it indispensable in modern metalworking applications. For processes like brazing and preheating that don't require extreme temperatures, acetylene can be used with air instead of oxygen, maintaining precision while offering cost savings.
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Rise in Various Chemicals Production
The chemical industry's expansion and diversification have significantly driven acetylene demand, as it serves as a crucial raw material in producing various chemical products. Acetylene is extensively used in manufacturing vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), which is further processed into polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, a widely used material in construction, automotive, and packaging industries. The chemical sector has witnessed substantial investments in new production facilities, exemplified by Shintech's capacity expansion of 580,000 tons of VCM and 380,000 tons of PVC. Additionally, projects like the HPCL GAIL JV Kakinada Vinyl Chloride Monomer Plant, with a capacity of 0.30 mtpa expected by 2024, demonstrate the growing industrial commitment to acetylene-based chemical production.
The versatility of acetylene in chemical synthesis continues to expand its applications across various sectors. As a chemical building block, acetylene undergoes several reactions, including carbanion formation, addition reactions across triple bonds, and participation in Diels-Alder reactions. This versatility enables the production of essential chemicals like trichloroethylene, acrylonitrile, acetic acid, and acetaldehyde. The chemical industry's robust growth is evidenced by significant investments, such as INEOS's mega-investment of EUR 3 billion for expanding its chemical plant, representing Europe's largest chemical investment in the past two decades. Furthermore, the establishment of new production facilities, like Chevron Phillips Chemical's Baytown Plant expansion to 5 million tons per annum by 2030, indicates strong growth potential for acetylene demand in chemical production.
Segment Analysis: Application
Metal Working Segment in Acetylene Market
The metal working segment continues to dominate the global acetylene market, commanding approximately 65% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is primarily driven by acetylene's crucial role in various metal fabrication processes, particularly in welding and cutting applications. The segment's dominance is reinforced by acetylene's unique properties, including its high flame temperature of 3,090°C and superior heat distribution capabilities, making it the preferred choice for precision-focused heat applications in metal working. The gas's ability to generate significantly lower moisture levels compared to other fuel gases makes it particularly suitable for preheating, welding, and brazing high-strength materials. Additionally, the precision-focused heat distribution produced by acetylene flame is essential for successful flame straightening, while its neutral flame setting is crucial for welding steel without undesirable reactions in the molten pool.
Chemical Raw Materials Segment in Acetylene Market
The chemical raw materials segment is projected to exhibit the strongest growth in the acetylene market during 2024-2029, with an expected growth rate of approximately 3%. This segment's robust growth is driven by acetylene's versatility as a chemical feedstock in producing various industrial chemicals. The expansion is particularly notable in the production of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), which is essential for PVC manufacturing, trichloroethylene for degreasing applications, and acrylonitrile for synthetic fiber production. The segment's growth is further supported by increasing investments in chemical manufacturing facilities globally, with significant capacity expansions planned by major chemical producers. The rising demand for acetylene-derived products in construction, packaging, and automotive industries continues to fuel this segment's expansion, making it a crucial driver of market growth.
Remaining Segments in Application Segmentation
The other applications segment, while smaller in market share, plays a vital role in the acetylene market's diversity. This segment encompasses various specialized applications, including the use of acetylene in the glass manufacturing industry for carbon coating processes, pharmaceutical synthesis, and specialized lighting applications. The segment also includes acetylene's applications in polymer production, particularly in the manufacturing of polyethylene plastics and various resins. Additionally, the segment covers acetylene's use in dye manufacturing, pigment production, and various other industrial processes where its unique chemical properties provide specific advantages. These diverse applications, though representing a smaller market share, contribute significantly to the overall market dynamics and provide important growth opportunities in specialized industries.
Acetylene Market Geography Segment Analysis
Acetylene Market in Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific region dominates the acetylene market, driven by robust industrial growth across multiple sectors, including metalworking, chemicals, and manufacturing. China leads the regional acetylene market with its extensive steel and chemical production capabilities, followed by Japan, which has a strong presence in industrial gases. India and South Korea are also significant contributors, particularly in the metal fabrication and automotive sectors. The region's acetylene market is characterized by increasing investments in infrastructure development and growing demand from end-user industries.
Acetylene Market in China
China maintains its position as the largest acetylene market in Asia-Pacific, commanding approximately 87% of the regional market share. The country's dominance is supported by its massive steel industry, extensive chemical manufacturing base, and robust automotive sector. The Chinese government's focus on developing eco-friendly means of steel production and significant investments in infrastructure projects continue to drive market growth. The country's chemical industry represents a substantial portion of global acetylene sales, with numerous major global companies operating manufacturing facilities in China.
Growth Prospects in China
China also leads the region in terms of growth potential, with a projected growth rate of approximately 3% during 2024-2029. The country's growth trajectory is supported by its expanding electric vehicle industry, increasing steel production capacity, and ongoing investments in chemical manufacturing facilities. The government's initiatives to achieve net-zero emissions in various industries, including steel production, are expected to drive technological advancements and create new opportunities for acetylene applications. China's commitment to industrial modernization and sustainable development continues to attract investments in key end-user industries.
Acetylene Market in North America
The North American acetylene market is characterized by advanced industrial infrastructure and technological capabilities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The region demonstrates strong demand from various end-use industries, particularly in metal fabrication, chemical synthesis, and manufacturing sectors. The market benefits from well-established distribution networks and the presence of major industrial gas manufacturers.
Acetylene Market in United States
The United States dominates the North American acetylene market, accounting for approximately 92% of the regional market share. As the world's fourth-largest crude steel manufacturer, the country maintains a strong industrial base that drives acetylene consumption. The nation's chemical manufacturing industry, supported by top manufacturers like Dow, DuPont, and Huntsman Corporation, contributes significantly to market growth. The country's focus on technological advancement and industrial innovation continues to create new opportunities for acetylene applications.
Growth Prospects in Canada
Canada emerges as the fastest-growing market in North America, with an expected growth rate of approximately 2% during 2024-2029. The country's growth is driven by its expanding metal fabrication industry and significant investments in chemical manufacturing facilities. Canada's position as the world's largest uranium producer and its strong focus on sustainable industrial practices create additional opportunities for acetylene applications. The country's strategic initiatives to achieve net-zero emissions in the steel industry by 2050 further support market expansion.
Acetylene Market in Europe
The European acetylene market demonstrates a mature industrial landscape with significant contributions from Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, and France. The region's market is characterized by stringent environmental regulations and a strong focus on sustainable industrial practices. The presence of major chemical and industrial gas manufacturers, coupled with advanced manufacturing capabilities, supports market development across various end-use industries.
Acetylene Market in Germany
Germany maintains its position as the largest acetylene market in Europe, supported by its leadership in innovation and high-quality industrial products. The country's strong steel and metal industry, coupled with its extensive chemical manufacturing base, drives market growth. Germany's commitment to industrial modernization and sustainable development creates continuous demand for acetylene across various applications.
Growth Prospects in Germany
Germany also leads the region's growth trajectory, supported by its robust industrial infrastructure and technological advancement initiatives. The country's focus on developing eco-friendly industrial processes and increasing investments in chemical manufacturing creates new opportunities for acetylene applications. The presence of major industrial gas manufacturers and ongoing industrial modernization efforts continue to drive market expansion.
Acetylene Market in South America
The South American acetylene market is primarily driven by industrial activities in Brazil, Argentina, and other regional countries. Brazil emerges as both the largest and fastest-growing market in the region, supported by its position as one of the world's largest steel producers and expanding chemical industry. The region's market development is influenced by ongoing industrialization efforts and increasing investments in manufacturing capabilities.
Acetylene Market in Middle East & Africa
The Middle East & Africa acetylene market demonstrates growing potential, with Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and other regional countries contributing to market development. Saudi Arabia represents both the largest and fastest-growing market in the region, driven by its extensive petrochemical industry and increasing investments in metal fabrication capabilities. The region's market growth is supported by ongoing industrialization efforts and an increasing focus on diversifying economic activities beyond traditional sectors.
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Acetylene Industry Overview
Top Companies in Acetylene Market
The global acetylene market features prominent players like Air Liquide, Linde PLC, Air Products, and BASF SE leading the industry through various strategic initiatives. Companies are increasingly focusing on developing innovative manufacturing processes to minimize carbon emissions while improving production efficiency and product purity. Operational excellence is being achieved through vertically integrated supply chains and robust distribution networks spanning multiple regions. Strategic partnerships and collaborations are being formed to strengthen market presence and expand geographical reach, particularly in emerging economies. Companies are also investing in state-of-the-art facilities and upgrading existing infrastructure to meet growing demand while maintaining stringent safety and quality standards. The emphasis on research and development capabilities has become crucial for maintaining competitive advantage and developing differentiated offerings for diverse end-user applications.
Consolidated Market with Strong Regional Players
The acetylene market exhibits a partially consolidated structure with a mix of global conglomerates and specialized regional manufacturers. Global players dominate through their extensive distribution networks, technical expertise, and ability to serve multiple end-user industries across regions. These companies leverage their strong financial positions to maintain advanced production facilities and invest in continuous technological improvements. The presence of regional players remains significant in specific geographical markets where they compete through local knowledge, established customer relationships, and specialized product offerings tailored to regional requirements.
The market has witnessed selective merger and acquisition activities aimed at strengthening market positions and expanding geographical presence. Major companies are focusing on strategic acquisitions to enhance their product portfolios and gain access to new markets. The industry structure is characterized by high entry barriers due to significant capital requirements, stringent safety regulations, and the need for specialized production and handling expertise. Small-scale manufacturers face challenges in establishing balanced supply chains and meeting regulatory requirements, leading to a natural consolidation trend in the acetylene market.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the acetylene market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate while maintaining cost competitiveness and environmental sustainability. Incumbent players must focus on developing cleaner production processes, improving energy efficiency, and expanding their product applications to maintain market leadership. Investment in research and development, particularly in areas of green technology and sustainable manufacturing, has become crucial for long-term success. Companies need to strengthen their distribution networks while developing value-added services to enhance customer relationships and create differentiation in the market.
For contenders looking to gain market share, focusing on niche applications and underserved regional markets presents significant opportunities. The development of specialized products for specific end-user industries, combined with strong technical support and service capabilities, can help in establishing market presence. Companies must also prepare for potential regulatory changes, particularly regarding environmental standards and safety requirements, which could impact production processes and market dynamics. The risk of substitution from alternative products necessitates continuous innovation and market adaptation, while high customer concentration in certain segments requires building strong relationships and understanding specific industry needs.
Acetylene Market Leaders
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BASF SE
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Praxair Technology, Inc.
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Gulf Cryo
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Linde plc
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Air Liquide
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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Acetylene Market News
- June 2024: Transform Materials, renowned for its pioneering work in clean and sustainable chemical technologies, has partnered with Johnson Matthey, a global frontrunner in sustainable solutions. This partnership melds Transform Materials' advanced technology of deriving acetylene from various short-chain hydrocarbons with Johnson Matthey's distinctive mercury-free technology and catalyst, adept at transforming acetylene into vinyl chloride monomer (VCM).
- May 2023: Transform Materials and Denka have partnered to create a low-carbon acetylene supply chain tailored for the metalworking industry. Leveraging Transform Materials' plasma technology, the collaboration seeks to produce acetylene without CO2 emissions. This agreement aligns with Denka's "Mission 2030," an ambitious eight-year management initiative targeting a 60% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030.
- October 2022: SCG Chemicals Public Company Limited and Denka Company Limited have entered into a joint venture agreement to establish an acetylene black manufacturing facility in Rayong province, Thailand. The new plant, currently under construction, is set to have an annual production capacity of around 11,000 metric tons and is slated to begin operations by 2025. This collaboration positions both companies to enhance their competitiveness in the global acetylene black market.
Acetylene Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET DYNAMICS
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4.1 Drivers
- 4.1.1 Growing Demand from the Metalworking Industry
- 4.1.2 Increasing Demand from the Chemical Sector
- 4.1.3 Other Drivers
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4.2 Restraints
- 4.2.1 Stringent Environmental Regulations Due to the Harmful Effects of Acetylene
- 4.2.2 Alternatives of Acetylene in Welding And Cutting Applications
- 4.2.3 Other Restraints
- 4.3 Industry Value-Chain Analysis
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4.4 Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.4.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.4.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.4.4 Threat of Substitute Products and Services
- 4.4.5 Degree of Competition
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (Market Size in Volume)
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5.1 Application
- 5.1.1 Metal Working
- 5.1.2 Chemical Raw Materials
- 5.1.3 Other Applications
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5.2 Geography
- 5.2.1 Asia-Pacific
- 5.2.1.1 China
- 5.2.1.2 India
- 5.2.1.3 Japan
- 5.2.1.4 South Korea
- 5.2.1.5 Malaysia
- 5.2.1.6 Thailand
- 5.2.1.7 Indonesia
- 5.2.1.8 Vietnam
- 5.2.1.9 Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 5.2.2 North America
- 5.2.2.1 United States
- 5.2.2.2 Canada
- 5.2.2.3 Mexico
- 5.2.3 Europe
- 5.2.3.1 Germany
- 5.2.3.2 United Kingdom
- 5.2.3.3 France
- 5.2.3.4 Italy
- 5.2.3.5 Spain
- 5.2.3.6 Nordic Countries
- 5.2.3.7 Turkey
- 5.2.3.8 Russia
- 5.2.3.9 Rest of Europe
- 5.2.4 South America
- 5.2.4.1 Brazil
- 5.2.4.2 Argentina
- 5.2.4.3 Colombia
- 5.2.4.4 Rest of South America
- 5.2.5 Middle-East and Africa
- 5.2.5.1 Saudi Arabia
- 5.2.5.2 Qatar
- 5.2.5.3 United Arab Emirates
- 5.2.5.4 Nigeria
- 5.2.5.5 Egypt
- 5.2.5.6 South Africa
- 5.2.5.7 Rest of Middle-East and Africa
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Mergers & Acquisitions, Joint Ventures, Collaborations, and Agreements
- 6.2 Market Share (%)**/Ranking Analysis
- 6.3 Strategies Adopted by Leading Players
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6.4 Company Profiles
- 6.4.1 Air Liquide
- 6.4.2 Air Products And Chemicals Inc.
- 6.4.3 Asia Technical Gas Co Pte Ltd.
- 6.4.4 Axcel Gases
- 6.4.5 BASF SE
- 6.4.6 Butler Gas Products
- 6.4.7 Denka Company Limited
- 6.4.8 Gruppo SIAD
- 6.4.9 Gulf Cryo
- 6.4.10 Jinhong Gas Co. Ltd.
- 6.4.11 Koatsu Gas Kogyo Co. Ltd.
- 6.4.12 Linde PLC
- 6.4.13 Nippon Sanso Holdings Corporation
- 6.4.14 NOL Group
- 6.4.15 Pune Air Products
- 6.4.16 TOHO ACETYLENE Co.
- 6.4.17 Transform Materials
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
- 7.1 Application of Acetylene Gas for Various Scientific Research
- 7.2 Other Opportunities
**Subject to Availability
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Acetylene Industry Segmentation
Acetylene, or ethyne, is a colorless and highly flammable gas known for its distinct unpleasant odor. With the chemical formula C₂H₂, it stands as the simplest form of alkyne, a category of hydrocarbons. Due to its high reactivity, acetylene serves crucial roles in diverse industrial and commercial sectors. It's prominently used as a fuel in oxyacetylene welding and metal cutting, and it acts as a primary raw material in producing a wide range of organic chemicals and plastics.
The acetylene market is segmented by application and geography. By application, the market is segmented into metalworking, chemical raw materials, and other applications. The report also covers the market sizes and forecasts for the global acetylene market in 27 countries across major regions. For each segment, the market sizing and forecasts have been done on the basis of volume (tons).
| Application | Metal Working | ||
| Chemical Raw Materials | |||
| Other Applications | |||
| Geography | Asia-Pacific | China | |
| India | |||
| Japan | |||
| South Korea | |||
| Malaysia | |||
| Thailand | |||
| Indonesia | |||
| Vietnam | |||
| Rest of Asia-Pacific | |||
| North America | United States | ||
| Canada | |||
| Mexico | |||
| Europe | Germany | ||
| United Kingdom | |||
| France | |||
| Italy | |||
| Spain | |||
| Nordic Countries | |||
| Turkey | |||
| Russia | |||
| Rest of Europe | |||
| South America | Brazil | ||
| Argentina | |||
| Colombia | |||
| Rest of South America | |||
| Middle-East and Africa | Saudi Arabia | ||
| Qatar | |||
| United Arab Emirates | |||
| Nigeria | |||
| Egypt | |||
| South Africa | |||
| Rest of Middle-East and Africa | |||
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Acetylene Market Research FAQs
How big is the Acetylene Market?
The Acetylene Market size is expected to reach 11.98 million tons in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 2.54% to reach 13.58 million tons by 2030.
What is the current Acetylene Market size?
In 2025, the Acetylene Market size is expected to reach 11.98 million tons.
Who are the key players in Acetylene Market?
BASF SE, Praxair Technology, Inc., Gulf Cryo, Linde plc and Air Liquide are the major companies operating in the Acetylene Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Acetylene Market?
Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2025-2030).
Which region has the biggest share in Acetylene Market?
In 2025, the Asia Pacific accounts for the largest market share in Acetylene Market.
What years does this Acetylene Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Acetylene Market size was estimated at 11.68 million tons. The report covers the Acetylene Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Acetylene Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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Acetylene Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the acetylene industry. We leverage our extensive experience in chemical sector research to deliver this. Our expert analysts offer detailed insights into the global acetylene market. This includes various acetylene sizes and grades, ranging from industrial grade acetylene to high purity acetylene gases. The report examines the chemical compound, also known as C2H2 or ethyne. It covers everything from acetylene conversion catalysts to cyclopropyl acetylene applications across diverse industries.
Our detailed research encompasses crucial market dynamics. This includes an analysis of the acetylene price trend and the impact of acetylene regulations on industry growth. The report is available as an easy-to-download PDF. It provides stakeholders with actionable insights into acetylene gas production, consumption patterns, and emerging opportunities. Whether you operate an acetylene plant or participate in the value chain, our analysis offers valuable strategic guidance. This enables informed decision-making in this evolving market landscape.
