Abstract
Changes in the product mix to favor higher-value, less toxic biocides
US demand for specialty biocides is expected to exceed $2 billion by 2010.
Although the most important industrial markets for biocides - wood
preservation, food and beverage processing, cosmetics and toiletries, cleaning
products, and paints and coatings - are relatively mature, the opportunities
for market value gains are considerable. Much of this will be due to changes
in the product mix, with higher-value products which offer lower toxicity,
strong performance and more favorable environmental profiles expanding their
market presence at the expense of traditional biocides and low-cost products
such as chlorine and commodity alcohols.
ACQ, organosulfurs,organic acids, triclosan among best prospects
Alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) compounds and other alternative products will
expand due to the voluntary withdrawal of chromated copper arsenate (CCA) in
treated wood from residential uses. Alternatives to tributyl tin (TBT), such
as organosulfur compounds, will register strong growth in the marine segment,
although no product yet matches TBT's effectiveness or resiliency as a marine
antifoulant. Organic acids are expected to remain the biocide of choice in the
food and beverage, and cosmetic and toiletry markets. Triclosan continues to
expand its presence in cleaning and personal care products, despite concerns
fueled by media reports about its potential drawbacks. Nanoscale silver is
finding use in biocide formulations for steel products, as well as athletic
and surgical apparel.
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