The superabsorbent polymers market size in Europe was valued at USD 2.44 billion in 2024. The European market is estimated to be worth USD 3.98 billion by 2033 from USD 2.58 billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 5.58% from 2025 to 2033.
Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are advanced materials capable of absorbing and retaining large volumes of liquid relative to their mass, making them indispensable across various industries. These polymers are primarily composed of cross-linked polyacrylic acid and are widely utilized in applications such as hygiene products, agriculture, medical devices, and industrial processes. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), SAPs are increasingly being adopted in agriculture to enhance water retention in soils, particularly in regions affected by water scarcity. Germany, France, and Italy are accounting for over 60% of total SAP consumption in the Europe.
Furthermore, stringent regulations promoting biodegradable and eco-friendly SAPs have spurred innovation, with manufacturers focusing on sustainable alternatives. As per the European Bioplastics Association, the adoption of bio-based SAPs is growing rapidly in the European region. As Europe intensifies its focus on circular economy principles and environmental sustainability, the superabsorbent polymers market is poised to expand further.
The growing demand for hygiene products, such as baby diapers and adult incontinence products, is a key driver of the Europe superabsorbent polymers market. The aging population in Europe has significantly contributed to this trend, with Eurostat reporting that over 20% of the EU population was aged 65 or older in 2021. This demographic shift has led to a surge in demand for adult incontinence products, which rely heavily on superabsorbent polymers for their absorbency capabilities. Additionally, steady birth rates ensure sustained demand for baby diapers. According to the European Commission, the personal care and hygiene sector accounts for approximately 70% of total superabsorbent polymer consumption, underscoring its pivotal role in driving market growth.
The increasing use of superabsorbent polymers in agriculture and horticulture is another major factor propelling the market in Europe. Climate change and water scarcity concerns have encouraged farmers to adopt advanced irrigation techniques, including hydrogels made from superabsorbent polymers. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) states that these hydrogels can reduce water usage by up to 50%, making them essential for sustainable farming practices. In 2020, the European Environment Agency highlighted that agriculture accounts for around 44% of total water abstraction in Europe, emphasizing the need for efficient water management solutions. As governments promote eco-friendly agricultural practices, the demand for superabsorbent polymers is expected to rise further, supporting market expansion across the region.
Stringent environmental regulations in Europe pose a significant restraint on the superabsorbent polymers market. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has imposed strict guidelines under the REACH regulation, which monitors the use of chemicals to ensure safety and environmental protection. Superabsorbent polymers, often derived from petrochemical sources, face scrutiny due to their non-biodegradable nature and potential environmental impact. According to the European Environment Agency, plastic waste, including non-biodegradable polymers, accounts for approximately 20% of municipal solid waste in Europe. This regulatory pressure has increased compliance costs for manufacturers, limiting production flexibility. Additionally, the European Commission’s Circular Economy Action Plan emphasizes reducing plastic waste, pushing industries to explore sustainable alternatives. These stringent measures hinder market growth by creating barriers to innovation and increasing operational challenges for polymer producers.
The volatility in raw material prices, particularly petrochemical feedstocks, is another major restraint affecting the superabsorbent polymers market in Europe. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that crude oil prices fluctuated significantly between 2020 and 2023, with an average increase of 40% during this period. Since superabsorbent polymers are primarily derived from acrylic acid, a petrochemical derivative, these price fluctuations directly impact production costs. Eurostat data highlights that energy-intensive industries, including chemical manufacturing, faced a 15% rise in operational costs due to volatile raw material prices in 2022. This instability forces manufacturers to absorb higher costs or pass them on to consumers, reducing market competitiveness. As a result, the unpredictability of raw material prices creates financial uncertainty, restraining the growth of the superabsorbent polymers market in Europe.
The development of biodegradable superabsorbent polymers presents a significant opportunity for the European market. The European Commission’s Green Deal emphasizes reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable materials, creating a favorable environment for innovation in eco-friendly polymers. According to the European Bioplastics Association, the global bioplastics market is projected to grow by 15% annually, with Europe accounting for 25% of global production capacity as of 2023. This shift aligns with consumer demand for environmentally friendly products, particularly in agriculture and hygiene sectors. Additionally, the European Environment Agency highlights that replacing conventional polymers with biodegradable alternatives could reduce plastic waste by up to 30%. Manufacturers investing in biodegradable superabsorbent polymers can capitalize on this trend, meeting regulatory requirements while addressing environmental concerns and expanding their market share.
The expansion of superabsorbent polymers into emerging applications, such as medical and industrial uses, offers another promising opportunity for the European market. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the growing demand for advanced wound care products, which utilize superabsorbent polymers for enhanced fluid management. The European medical devices market, valued at €127 billion in 2022 according to MedTech Europe, provides a substantial platform for growth. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of superabsorbent polymers in industrial spill control and water treatment systems is gaining traction. Eurostat reports that the EU water treatment sector is expected to grow by 8% annually through 2025, driven by stricter wastewater management regulations. By diversifying into these high-growth sectors, manufacturers can unlock new revenue streams and strengthen their position in the evolving polymer market landscape.
A significant challenge for the Europe superabsorbent polymers market is its high dependency on petrochemical feedstocks, which are subject to geopolitical and economic uncertainties. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that Europe’s reliance on imported crude oil and natural gas increased by 10% in 2022 due to supply chain disruptions caused by global conflicts. Since acrylic acid, a key raw material for superabsorbent polymers, is derived from propylene—a petrochemical product—this dependency creates cost volatility and supply risks. Eurostat data reveals that energy-intensive industries, including polymer manufacturing, faced a 25% rise in raw material costs in 2022 alone. This instability forces manufacturers to navigate fluctuating profit margins and operational challenges. Additionally, the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC) highlights that such dependencies hinder long-term strategic planning, making it difficult for companies to maintain competitive pricing and ensure consistent supply.
Another major challenge is the limited recycling infrastructure for polymer waste, which restricts the circular economy initiatives in Europe. The European Environment Agency states that only 30% of plastic waste is currently recycled in the EU, with the remainder being incinerated or landfilled. Superabsorbent polymers, often non-biodegradable, contribute to this growing waste problem, as they are challenging to recycle due to their chemical structure. The European Commission’s Circular Economy Action Plan aims to address this issue, but progress has been slow, with only 9% of plastics being recycled into new products as of 2023. According to the OECD, inadequate recycling infrastructure results in an estimated €6 billion annual loss in material value. This lack of effective waste management not only increases environmental concerns but also limits the adoption of sustainable practices, posing a significant barrier to market growth.
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REPORT METRIC |
DETAILS |
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Market Size Available |
2024 to 2033 |
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Base Year |
2024 |
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Forecast Period |
2025 to 2033 |
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CAGR |
5.58% |
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Segments Covered |
By Type, Application, and Region |
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Various Analyses Covered |
Global, Regional, & Country Level Analysis; Segment-Level Analysis; DROC; PESTLE Analysis; Porter’s Five Forces Analysis; Competitive Landscape; Analyst Overview of Investment Opportunities |
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Regions Covered |
UK, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Netherlands, Turkey, Czech Republic, Rest of Europe |
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Market Leaders Profiled |
BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd., Sumitomo Seika Chemicals Co., Ltd., LG Chem Ltd., SNF Floerger, Kao Corporation, Formosa Plastics Corporation, Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd., Yixing Danson Technology. |
The sodium polyacrylate dominated the market by holding 70.7% of the European superabsorbent polymers market share in 2024. The growth of the sodium polyacrylate segment is attributed to its unmatched absorbency, which is capable of retaining up to 300 times its weight in water. As per the Eurostat, the personal care sector consumes approximately 800,000 tons annually due to the steady birth rates and an aging population. With the EU’s adult incontinence market projected to grow at 5% annually, sodium polyacrylate remains critical for meeting hygiene demands. However, environmental concerns due to its non-biodegradability are pushing innovation toward sustainable alternatives.
The polyacrylamide segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.5% over the forecast period due to factor such as increasing wastewater treatment requirements, as the EU mandates stricter water quality standards. The International Water Association states that polyacrylamide-based solutions enhance treatment efficiency by 40%. Additionally, its use in agriculture for soil conditioning aligns with the EU’s push for sustainable farming practices. With the water treatment sector projected to grow at 6% annually through 2025, polyacrylamide’s versatility ensures its importance in addressing environmental challenges while driving market expansion.
The personal hygiene segment led the market by commanding 70.3% of the European superabsorbent polymers market share in 2024. The domination of the personal hygiene segment is majorly driven by the high demand for baby diapers and adult incontinence products. According to the European Commission, more than 20% of the EU population is aged 65 or older, which is significantly boosting the need for adult incontinence solutions. Sodium polyacrylate is a key polymer and absorbs up to 300 times its weight in water, which is making it indispensable. With steady birth rates and an aging population, the personal care sector is projected to grow at 4% annually and ensuring sustained demand. Despite environmental concerns, this segment remains vital due to its widespread use and societal importance.
The agriculture is the fastest-growing segment and is predicted to witness a CAGR of 7.2% over the forecast period owing to the increasing water scarcity and climate change challenges. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) states that superabsorbent polymers like hydrogels can reduce water usage by up to 50%, promoting sustainable farming. In 2022, agriculture accounted for 44% of total water abstraction in Europe, underscoring the need for efficient solutions. Government initiatives encouraging eco-friendly practices further accelerate adoption. As Europe prioritizes sustainability, the agricultural application of superabsorbent polymers is poised to expand.
Germany dominated the European superabsorbent polymers market by occupying a 28.5% of the European market share. The growth of Germany in the European market is driven by the robust manufacturing base, high demand for hygiene products and increasing aging population. The Federal Statistical Office of Germany reports that over 22% of its population is aged 65 or older, increasing the need for adult incontinence products. Additionally, Germany’s strong emphasis on sustainable agriculture aligns with the growing use of superabsorbent polymers in water-efficient farming practices. According to the German Chemical Industry Association, Germany accounts for 30% of Europe’s chemical production, which is supporting innovation in polymer development. These factors along with the stringent environmental regulations, position Germany as a leader in both consumption and technological advancement.
France is the second-largest market in the European superabsorbent polymers market. The prominence of France in the European market is primarily fuelled by its large personal care sector and increasing adoption of advanced medical products. INSEE reports that France’s hygiene product market grew by 6% annually from 2020 to 2023, driven by steady birth rates and an aging population. Moreover, the French government’s focus on healthcare innovation has boosted demand for superabsorbent polymers in wound care and surgical applications. France’s strategic investments in sustainable agriculture further enhance its market position, making it a key player in both traditional and emerging applications.
The United Kingdom holds a significant share of the European superabsorbent polymers market over the forecast period. The domination of the UK in the European market is attributed to its strong regulatory push for sustainable solutions, particularly in agriculture and water management. The Environment Agency reports that the UK aims to reduce water wastage by 20% by 2030, driving the adoption of hydrogels in farming. Additionally, the UK’s aging population, with over 18% aged 65 or older, sustains demand for hygiene products. The British Plastics Federation highlights that the UK is also investing in biodegradable polymers, aligning with its net-zero emissions goal. These initiatives, coupled with a diversified industrial base, solidify the UK’s leading position in the market.
Major Players of the Europe superabsorbent polymers include BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd., Sumitomo Seika Chemicals Co., Ltd., LG Chem Ltd., SNF Floerger, Kao Corporation, Formosa Plastics Corporation, Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd., Yixing Danson Technology.
This research report on the Europe superabsorbent polymers market is segmented and sub-segmented into the following categories.
By Type
By Application
By Country
Frequently Asked Questions
Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are materials that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their mass. They are commonly used in hygiene products, agriculture, and medical applications.
The market is growing due to increasing demand for hygiene products such as diapers, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products. Additionally, advancements in agricultural water retention and medical applications are driving growth.
Major players include BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd., Sumitomo Seika Chemicals Co., Ltd., LG Chem Ltd., SNF Floerger, Kao Corporation, Formosa Plastics Corporation, Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd., and Yixing Danson Technology.
The primary industries using SAPs include personal care & hygiene (diapers, sanitary pads), agriculture (water retention in soil), healthcare (wound care products), and industrial applications.
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