Hexafluorosilicic Acid Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Application (Chemical Intermediate, Metal Surface Treatment, Water Fluoridation, Wood Preservation, Glass Additive, Ceramic Hardening, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global hexafluorosilicic acid market size was valued at USD 500.61 million in 2023. The market is projected to grow from USD 542.16 million in 2024 to USD 977.76 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period.

Hexafluorosilicic acid (also known as fluorosilicic acid) is a chemical compound primarily used in various industrial applications and environmental processes. It is a colorless, corrosive liquid, although it can also be found in the gaseous state. This compound is produced both naturally and industrially. It occurs naturally in volcanic emissions and is also a byproduct in the manufacturing of phosphate fertilizers, where phosphate rock is treated with sulfuric acid. The market is driven by an increased demand from applications such as water fluoridation and metal surface treatment.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the market, particularly in 2020 and early 2021. The automotive industry, for example, experienced a double-digit drop in the use of hexafluorosilicic acid for aluminum production due to decreased vehicle output. The closure of manufacturing facilities and restrictions on the movement of goods compounded this reduction in demand. The pandemic further led to a heightened awareness of sustainability and environmental responsibility across various industries. This shift prompted acid producers to explore more sustainable production methods and technologies.

Hexafluorosilicic Acid Market Trends

Increasing Demand in Textile Industry is a Prominent Trend in the Market

The global textile industry is vast, encompassing a wide range of applications from clothing and fashion to technical and industrial textiles. Hexafluorosilicic acid has observed a varied demand in the textile industry and is intermediate in the production of other chemicals. Its role in textiles comes in more specialized applications. Fluorosilicic acid is recognized for its ability to remove stains, rust, and mold from textiles, making it a valuable asset in fabric treatment processes. Its role in pH regulation during the rinse cycle also enhances cleaning efficiency, protecting the fibers by forming a thin film around the fabric.

Innovations in textile manufacturing and processing technologies may create new opportunities for product usage as it enhances the industry's efficiency and improves its overall performance. While fluorosilicic acid has a specific role in the textile industry, its use in water treatment and potentially in fabric finishing contributes to its continued demand. However, its expansion in the textile sector will depend on sustainability market trends, regulatory conditions, and technological progress.

Request a Free sample to learn more about this report.

Hexafluorosilicic Acid Market Growth Factors

Growth in Water Fluoridation Applications to Boost Market Expansion

Hexafluorosilicic acid (H₂SiF₆) is a chemical compound commonly used in water fluoridation processes. It is produced from fluoride-containing minerals, particularly apatite and fluorapatite, through a process involving sulfuric acid. When added to water, fluorosilicic acid undergoes hydrolysis, breaking down into fluoride ions and amorphous silica. This reaction is significant as it ensures that fluoride ions, which are beneficial for water purity, are released into the water supply. Growing demand from water treatment plants to add fluoride compounds into public water supply is driving the market growth.

Hexafluorosilicic acid and its salt sodium hexafluorosilicate (Na2SiF6) are the most used compounds for drinking water fluoridation. The fluoride ion (F-) is the main substance of concern, and studies from the European Public Health Department and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services show that the pharmacokinetic profile of fluoride from these agents is identical to that of sodium fluoride (NaF). When the pH and concentrations are appropriate for drinking water, hexafluorosilicates break down quickly and completely into fluoride, with no other fluorosilicate by-products. Any other products from this breakdown, such as Si(OH)4, become colloidal silica, which is naturally abundant in drinking water. Thus, these factors are set to push the market growth in the near future.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Health and Safety Concerns Associated with Exposure May Limit Market Growth

Despite its widespread use, hexafluorosilicic acid is highly corrosive and toxic, posing several health and safety risks. Direct contact can cause severe burns to the skin and eyes. Inhalation of its vapors or dust can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs and, at high concentrations, may lead to pulmonary edema, a condition involving fluid accumulation in the lungs. Long-term exposure, even at lower levels, can have detrimental effects on bone health. The fluoride ion from fluorosilicic acid can accumulate in bones and lead to conditions such as skeletal fluorosis, which is characterized by pain and damage to bones and joints.

Leaks or spills of hexafluorosilicic acid can have dangerous effects on the environment. Once in the soil or water systems, it can release fluoride ions, which are toxic to plants and animals. High levels of fluoride in water can lead to the decline of fish populations and harm other wildlife.

Proper handling and storage are crucial to minimizing the health risks associated with fluorosilicic acid. This includes the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. Moreover, facilities storing fluorosilicic acid should have proper containment measures to prevent leaks or spills.

Regulatory standards and guidelines exist to limit the exposure and environmental release of hexafluorosilicic acid. Industries using this compound must strictly adhere to these regulations. Regular monitoring of workplace air quality and environmental concentrations of fluorosilicic acid and fluoride ions can help manage its risks. Such factors may restrain the market growth potential.

Hexafluorosilicic Acid Market Segmentation Analysis

By Application Analysis

To know how our report can help streamline your business, Speak to Analyst

Water Fluoridation Dominated the Market Due to Growing Awareness about Dental Health

By application, the market is segmented into chemical intermediate, metal surface treatment, water fluoridation, wood preservation, glass additive, ceramic hardening, and others.

The water fluoridation segment captured the largest hexafluorosilicic acid market share and is estimated to maintain dominance throughout the forecast period. Growing awareness about dental health and the benefits of fluoride in preventing tooth decay has led to an increase in the adoption of water fluoridation, driving the product demand. Further, the acid is considered a cost-effective solution for fluoridation compared to alternatives such as sodium fluoride, which supports market growth.

The metal surface treatment segment accounting for the second-largest share is predicted to witness notable growth over the coming years. Fluorosilicic acid is used to treat metal surfaces to improve corrosion resistance, particularly in harsh environments. As industries seek to extend the lifespan of metal components, the demand for effective surface treatment solutions increases, driving the hexafluorosilicic acid market. Moreover, technological advancements in metal surface treatment, including more efficient and environmentally friendly processes, are boosting the adoption of fluorosilicic acid as a key chemical in these applications.

The chemical intermediates segment is expected to grow considerably during the forecast period. The expansion of the chemical industry, particularly in developing regions, is driving the demand for chemical intermediates. Hexafluorosilicic acid is used as a precursor in the production of various chemicals. Fluorosilicic acid is a source of fluoride ions, which are crucial in the synthesis of various fluoride-based chemicals such as aluminum fluoride and cryolite. The increasing demand for these chemicals in industries such as aluminum production and glass manufacturing propels the market.

To know how our report can help streamline your business, Speak to Analyst

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

By region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Asia Pacific holds the dominant share of the global market and is anticipated to emerge as the fastest-growing region in the future. In Asia Pacific, the product demand is surging due to the growing construction sector, which includes large-scale infrastructure projects. The rising demand for materials such as treated wood and durable glass, both of which utilize fluorosilicic acid in their production processes, is boosting the fluorosilicic acid market in the region.

To get more information on the regional analysis of this market, Request a Free sample

North America is expected to be the second dominant region in the global market due to the rising demand from the water fluoridation industry. There is strong support for water fluoridation in North America, particularly in the U.S. and Canada, driven by public health initiatives aimed at reducing dental cavities. This is likely to drive the demand for fluorosilicic acid as a cost-effective fluoridation agent.

Europe is expected to make substantial gains during the forecast timeframe. The region has strict regulations regarding environmental protection and chemical safety, which drive the use of fluorosilicic acid due to its relatively lower environmental impact compared to other alternatives. This is particularly relevant in water treatment and industrial processes.

The Latin American market is expected to showcase considerable growth during the forecast period. The country's agricultural industry is significant, with a focus on enhancing crop yields and soil quality. Fluorosilicic acid is used in the production of phosphate fertilizers, supporting agricultural productivity and driving hexafluorosilicic acid market growth.

The Middle East & Africa is expected to depict significant growth in the global market backed by the development of industries such as water treatment, agriculture, manufacturing, and construction. Moreover, the exploration of new applications and uses of hexafluorosilicic acid is expanding its market presence in the region.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Players to Focus on Investing in R&D to Maintain Dominance in the Market

The competitive landscape of the market is somewhat fragmented, with several global and regional players operating. Some of the key players in the market include Honeywell International Inc., Solvay S.A., FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation, American Elements, and Gelest Inc. The companies’ investment in research and development to innovate and improve their product offerings also helps them gain a competitive edge in the market.

List of Top Hexafluorosilicic Acid Companies:

• American Elements (U.S.)


• Solvay S.A. (China)


• FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation (Japan)


• Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)


• Gelest Inc. (U.S.)


• Graham Chemical (U.S.)


• Ensince Industry Co., Ltd. (China)


• RX Chemicals (India)

REPORT COVERAGE

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market. It focuses on key aspects, such as leading companies and end-use industries of the product. Besides this, it offers insights into the market and current trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the factors mentioned above, the report encompasses several factors contributing to the market growth.

To gain extensive insights into the market, Request for Customization

Report Scope & Segmentation