Insoluble Sulfur Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Grade (High Dispersion, High Stability, Regular), By Application (Tire Manufacturing, Industrial, Footwear), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Insoluble Sulfur Market Size & Trends

The global insoluble sulfur market size was estimated at USD 1,142.6 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2024 to 2030. Rising demand for products such as vulcanization accelerator and agents for the manufacturing of rubber products and tires is driving the product demand in the market.

The global demand for the insoluble sulfur products has increased in the last couple of years owing to its rising demand from various end-use industries, including rubber and tire production, as a result of growing global automobile sales. The product is mainly used as a vulcanization accelerator in the rubber industry as it provides adhesive property to rubber, making it more solid to prevent it from breaking apart. The increased demand for tires is expected to fuel the demand for the product further, as it acts as a heat-resistant agent and helps resist the wear & tear of tires.

In addition, growing demand and increasing penetration of electric vehicles (EVs) in developing countries like India also increase the demand for tires and their raw material (insoluble sulfur). As per the India Brand Equity Foundation, the Indian electric vehicles market is projected to reach USD 1,318 billion by 2028, approximately five times larger than its size in revenue witnessed in the country in 2021. Thus, with the growing demand for tires due to increasing automobile production, the product market is expected to grow in the coming years.

According to the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA), the total tire shipment in the country in 2023 stood at 334.2 million units, 0.7% higher than the previous year, and is further expected to increase owing to the increasing automobile production. In addition, the country exported tires worth USD 409 million during the same period. Thus, the growing tire production in the U.S. contributes to the increasing demand for the product in the country.

The rising demand for footwear is a significant driving factor for the product market, particularly in the rubber industry, where insoluble sulfur is crucial in the vulcanization process of rubber soles and components. Several factors contribute to the increasing demand for footwear. Fashion trends play a significant role in driving the demand for footwear. Consumers, especially in developed economies, often seek stylish footwear to complement their outfits. Additionally, the emergence of athleisure trends has increased the demand for sports-inspired footwear, including sneakers and athletic shoes, driving production volumes in the footwear industry.

While sulfur is abundantly available in nature, the sources of sulfur extraction are limited to specific regions with sulfur-rich deposits. This geographical concentration of sulfur production can lead to supply chain disruptions due to political instability, regulatory changes, or natural disasters in those regions. Given the finite nature of sulfur reserves and the increasing global demand for various sulfur-based products beyond the rubber industry (e.g., fertilizers and chemicals), there are concerns about long-term supply security. As demand for sulfur continues to grow across multiple industries, securing a stable and cost-effective supply for product production becomes increasingly challenging.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The global insoluble sulfur market is moderately fragmented, with major players aiming to achieve optimum business growth and strong market positioning through production capacity expansions, new product development, and research & development.

Manufacturers have anticipated a huge gap in product and technology development, thus, are investing in research & development to add new products to their portfolios and develop better technology for various end-use industries of product.

For instance, in 2022, China Sunsine Chemical Holdings Ltd.launched two new projects in Shanxian. The first is the 60,000 tons per annum continuous production of high-quality MBT phase 1 project. The second one is the 60,000 tons per annum of insoluble sulfur phase 2 project. This MBT project is a significant development in the Chinese rubber chemicals industry as it fills the gap in China's market for the continuous production of high-quality MBT. This project is expected to promote the transformation and upgrading of the industry toward clean, automated, and continuous production. It is strategically significant for China's fast development in rubber chemicals, tires, and auto industries.

Lions Industries s.r.o, Nynas AB, Oriental Carbon & Chemical Ltd.,  SHIKOKU CHEMICALS CORPORATION, and China Sunsine Chemical Holdings, among others, are the key manufacturers operating in the product market. These companies have a stronghold in the emerging markets while exporting their products to various end-use applications.

Manufacturers are majorly adopting strategies such as expansions to increase their market footprint. Lions Industries s.r.o, Nynas AB, Oriental Carbon & Chemical Ltd., SHIKOKU CHEMICALS CORPORATION, and China Sunsine Chemical Holdings, among others, are the key manufacturers operating in the insoluble sulfur market. In July 2022, Shikoku Chemicals announced plans to construct new facilities for insoluble sulfur at its Marugame plant in Marugame, Kagawa. The construction work is scheduled between April 2023 and October 2024.

Grade Insights

Regular grade dominated the market with a revenue share of 59.8% in 2023 owing to their wide usage in the rubber industry. It is used as a vulcanizing agent, which helps to cross-link rubber polymers to enhance their strength, durability, and heat resistance. The low solubility of regular-grade products in rubber compounds makes it a preferred choice, allowing for a more controlled and consistent curing process. This produces rubber products with improved mechanical properties, such as increased hardness, tensile strength, and abrasion resistance.

The products' regular grade is crucial to withstanding high curing temperatures without any untimely decomposition or loss of efficacy. This exceptional thermal stability guarantees that the sulfur remains active during the vulcanization process, resulting in optimal cross-linking and a sturdy and durable rubber structure.

High-stability insoluble sulfur is a specialized type that provides exceptional stability in various applications. It is formulated to withstand the negative effects of heat, aging, and oxidation, making it an excellent option for industries that require long-term stability. Insoluble sulfur of this type is commonly employed as a vulcanizing agent in the production of rubber and tires.

High-stability product grade offers outstanding resistance to aging and oxidation. It can maintain its curing activity for an extended period, even when exposed to air, light, or other environmental factors that typically break down sulfur compounds. This property of high-stability insoluble sulfur enables the production of robust and long-lasting rubber products with improved resistance to cracking, weathering, and deterioration.

Application Insights

Tire manufacturing application dominated the market with a revenue share of 89.5% in 2023 owing to increasing demand for tire form automobile industry. Insoluble sulfur is added to rubber compounds during the mixing stage and aids in vulcanization. Unlike soluble sulfur, insoluble sulfur does not dissolve in rubber and remains in its solid form. This property makes it an ideal additive for tire manufacturing as it ensures the even distribution of sulfur and prevents the formation of sulfur blooms on the surface of the tire. In addition, to improving the tire's durability, insoluble sulfur also helps reduce the curing time required for the vulcanization process, thereby enhancing efficiency in the manufacturing process.

Insoluble sulfur has various industrial applications, such as in rubber industries, tire manufacturing, etc. In the rubber industry, it is used as a vulcanizing agent to improve the physical properties of rubber, such as durability, flexibility, and resistance to heat, wear, and tear. It also helps reduce the curing time for rubber products, thereby increasing production efficiency. The product is also used in the manufacturing of automobile rubber parts. It is also preferred as a curing agent in most rubber industries. In tire manufacturing, the product is added to the rubber compound to enhance the strength and stability of the tire, making it suitable for use in different weather conditions.

Insoluble sulfur is a rubber additive that can be added to footwear during production. It improves the durability and strength of the rubber, making it more resistant to environmental factors such as heat and abrasion. However, it is important to note that using insoluble sulfur in footwear production can sometimes cause skin irritation or other allergic reactions. Therefore, it is important to be aware of potential risks and take appropriate precautions when working with or wearing rubber footwear. Insoluble sulfur is a vulcanization agent that strengthens rubber, prevents it from breaking down, and improves its resistance to wear and heat. It also enhances product quality, wearability, fatigue, and aging resistance.

Regional Insights

The presence of a vast consumer base in North America, owing to a considerable passenger car fleet, drives the demand for insoluble sulfur in the region. The increasing adoption rate of e-vehicles in the region, due to various government initiatives, is expected to induce the demand for high-performance tires. For instance, the government of Colorado offers a tax credit of USD 5000 for eligible Electric Vehicle (EV) purchases and grants of around 80% of the total EV cost. Furthermore, the U.S. has a high defense spending budget, which is expected to drive the demand for high-performance tires with aramid insoluble sulfur in defense vehicles.

U.S. Insoluble Sulfur Market Trends

Insoluble Sulfur market in the U.S. is experiencing significant growth driven by rising tire manufacturers in U.S. The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association is the national trade association for tire manufacturers in the U.S. The association comprises 12 member companies that operate 57 tire-related manufacturing facilities in 17 states. Tire manufacturing in the U.S. has an annual economic footprint of USD 170.6 billion.

The steady growth of the U.S. automotive industry, which is mainly focusing on electric vehicles directly fuels the demand for insoluble sulfur. For instance, according to International Council on Clean Transportation U.S., EV sales boosted from about 125,000 in the first quarter of 2021 to 185,000 in the fourth quarter of 2021 and from about 300,000 in the first quarter of 2023 to 375,000 in the third quarter of 2023. Thus, factors such as the growing automotive industry and the increasing usage of rubber & tires in the automotive sector are propelling the insoluble sulfur market in the U.S.

Europe Insoluble Sulfur Market Trends

Europe is a major hub for automotive production, and therefore, the demand for tires and consequently, insoluble sulfur is expected to be substantial. Insoluble sulfur is mainly used as a vulcanization accelerator in the rubber industry. Automotive is one of the most crucial industries in Europe, with companies such as DAF Trucks, BMW Group, Ford, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and Daimler leading the regional market.

According to The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), over nine million cars were produced in Europe in the first three quarters of 2023, a 14% increase from the same period in 2022. The industry is highly innovative and constantly evolving, generating numerous growth opportunities for various component manufacturers, tire producers, and others. The automotive sector is expected to witness substantial growth, which is expected to positively impact the demand for insoluble sulfur over the forecast period.

Germany Insoluble sulfur market is driven by the automotive industry, which is one of the largest in the world. According to the KBA federal transport authority, new car sales in Germany accounted for a 7.3% share in 2023 and reached a total of 2.8 million vehicles. Germany sold over 524,000 full-electric cars in 2023. According to trading economics, car production in Germany increased to 312,100 units in January from 258,254 units in December 2023. Thus, the rising automotive production, import, and export of vehicles positively impact the rubber sector in Germany, in turn, propelling the demand for rubber and related products. This is expected to be a significant contributor to the demand for insoluble sulfur in the country over the forecast period.

The insoluble sulfur market in the UK is influenced by various factors, including its application in tire manufacturing. Insoluble sulfur is widely used as a curing agent in tire manufacturing. Factors such as the increasing number of on-road vehicles globally and the need for tire replacements are expected to drive the UK’s demand for the insoluble sulfur market.

Asia Pacific Insoluble Sulfur Market Trends

Asia Pacific dominated the market segment with a revenue share of 55.3% in 2023 owing to the region being significant hub for tire manufacturing, with countries such as Japan, China, and India leading the tire industry. The demand for insoluble sulfur in the tire industry is driven by the rapid expansion of the rubber manufacturing sector in these emerging economies.

Additionally, the emphasis on sustainability and environmentally friendly production processes in the region affects the demand for materials such as insoluble sulfur. Key players in the market are aiming to make the manufacturing process as sustainable as possible to produce environmentally friendly tires, thereby contributing to the less demand of insoluble sulfur. For example, Goodyear, a prominent industry leader in Asia Pacific that operates facilities in countries such as Japan and India, produces a range of tires for various uses.

China insoluble sulfur market is expected to be one of the promising markets in the region as the tire and rubber industry in China extensively relies on insoluble sulfur for its vulcanization properties. The material is essential for improving the quality of rubber products, preventing blooming during rubber storage, and avoiding adhesion issues between rubber and molds. According to Automotive News Europe, China's vehicle sales accelerated 12% to a record 30.09 million units in 2023, beating a 3% growth target set earlier, which further fueled the demand for the tire and automotive industry in the country.

Central & South America Insoluble Sulfur Market Trends

The automobile industry in Central & South America is growing rapidly due to the increasing middle-class income and an expanding young population base. For instance, according to the Automotive Industry Portal, MarkLines, Argentina manufactured a total of 36,973 units of vehiclesles in December 2023, 0.4% less than December 2022. Through 2023, the country had a total production of 610,715 units, 13.7% more than in December 2022.

Brazil insoluble sulfur market is driven by the automobile industryasBrazil is the leading producer of automobiles in Central & South America and emerged as the ninth-largest automobile producer in the world. According to the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, automotive production in Brazil witnessed an increase of 5% in 2022 as compared to 2021.

Furthermore, in 2023, the Brazilian automotive industry is projected to experience a 2.2% increase in automobile output, with approximately 2.42 million vehicles being manufactured. This growth is expected to be driven by a 4.2% rise in the production of cars and other light vehicles. As one of the fastest-growing economies, Brazil has become a global hub for manufacturers. Automotive manufacturers are focusing on increasing their customer base by entering new markets. The production of vehicles requires using insoluble sulfur as a vulcanizing agent in the rubber components, which is contributing to the increased demand for this chemical.

Middle East & Africa Insoluble Sulfur Market Trends

The Middle East product market is likely to be driven by the expanding rubber industry. Additionally, government support and investments in the automotive industry contribute to its growth in the region. For instance, according to the Dubai Water and Electricity Authority (DEWA), the number of EVs in Dubai is had estimated to be approximately 7,331 in 2023 and is expected to reach 12,852 by 2025. This supports Dubai’s Green Mobility Strategy 2030, mandating that 30% of public sector vehicles and 10% of all vehicle sales will be electric and hybrid by 2030. The governments in the region recognize the automotive sector’s potential to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and attract foreign investment. As a result, they implement policies and incentives to support the industry, indirectly affecting the demand for raw materials like insoluble sulfur.

The insoluble sulfur market in the South Africa has established itself as a hub for automotive manufacturing and trade within Africa. The country’s automotive industrial policy, known as the Automotive Production Development Plan (APDP), has been instrumental in supporting the industry and has been confirmed until 2035. This plan has contributed to the growth of the automotive sector in South Africa, which, in turn, is driving the demand for raw materials like insoluble sulfur.

Key Insoluble Sulfur Company Insights

Some of the key players operating in the market include Lions Industries s.r.o, Nynas AB, Oriental Carbon & Chemical Ltd., LAXNESS and SHIKOKU KASEI HOLDINGS CORPORATION and among others.

• Established players compete and outplay the regional players by strategically integrating across the value chain to ensure seamless supply chain activities and reducing the production & operating costs. In addition, companies involved in manufacturing insoluble sulfur develop new products and production technologies. Companies are also backwardly integrating in order to save the operations cost involved in raw material procurement.

• For instance,Companies, such as Lion Global Sulfur, Grupa Azoty S.A., and NYNAS AB, are backward integrated in the insoluble sulfur value chain and hence, are involved in the manufacturing of raw materials.

Recent Developments

• In April 2024, the government of India has initiated an antidumping investigation concerning the import of insoluble sulfur, exported from China and Japan.

• In October 2022, China Sunsine Chemical Holdings Ltd launched two new projects in Shanxian. The first is the 60,000 tons per annum continuous production of high-quality MBT phase 1 project. The second one is the 60,000 tons per annum of insoluble sulfur phase 2 project. This MBT project is a significant development in the Chinese rubber chemicals industry as it fills the gap in China's market for the continuous production of high-quality MBT. This project is expected to promote the transformation and upgrading of the industry toward clean, automated, and continuous production. It is strategically significant for China's fast development in rubber chemicals, tires, and auto industries.

• In July 2022, Shikoku Chemicals announced plans to construct new facilities for insoluble sulfur at its Marugame Plant in Marugame, Kagawa. The construction work is scheduled for between April 2023 and October 2024. Once the construction is completed, the new facilities are expected to commence production in December 2024. The project will cost USD 32.8 million and will increase Shikoku's production capacity.

Insoluble Sulfur Market Report Scope

Global Insoluble Sulfur Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global insoluble sulfur market report based on grade, application, and region:

• Grade Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • High Dispersion

  • High Stability

  • Regular

• Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Tire Manufacturing

  • Industrials

  • Footwear

  • Other Applications

• Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Netherlands

    • Spain

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • Thailand

  • Central & South America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East and Africa

    • South Africa