Biocides Market Report

The market for biocides, algaecides and fungicides continues to be a mixed bag. In North America and Europe, biocides manufacturers Coatings World interviewed reported little to no growth. The Asia markets continue to register growth, albeit at a slower pace than previous years.

“The global market demand for industrial biocides for paints and coatings in 2011 overall has been subdued, with little or no growth in North America and Europe,” said David Tierney, global business manager, Lonza Microbial Control. “Growth has continued in Asia but that market has also been impacted by the economic issues in the more mature markets. Regulatory pressure on both the biocide component and the finished paint formulations continues to be the main driver for biocide selection.”

Demand for biocides has shown signs of improvement since the start of an economic downturn in mid-2008. “Of course, biocides serve many end-use segments, each with its own set of economic drivers,” said Ray Fahmy, business director, biocides North America, Ashland Specialty Ingredients. “Products required for the real estate and construction markets,