United Kingdom Ethylene Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

United Kingdom Ethylene Market Outlook

The United Kingdom ethylene market size reached approximately USD 3.98 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% between 2024 and 2032, reaching a value of around USD 6.05 billion by 2032.

Key Takeaways

Ethylene is a colourless and flammable hydrocarbon which belongs to the alkene series and naturally occurs in ripening fruit, crude oil, coal, and natural gas, among others. It has a distinct sweet and musky odour and is primarily utilised in the production of polyethylene, a primary plastic component.

The growing usage of polyethylene in the construction and buildings sector for the production of pipes, and foam insulators, among others, is one of the major trends favouring the United Kingdom ethylene market growth. Due to its corrosion-resistant and durable properties, polyethylene is primarily utilised in the water supply and drainage pipes. Moreover, it is used to insulate HVAC systems, roofs, and walls as it minimises heat loss and gain and maintains an optimal temperature.

Key Trends and Developments

Rising demand for ethylene as a raw material; growing production of polyethylene; increasing demand for ethylene derivatives; and the development of advanced technologies are positively impacting the United Kingdom ethylene market growth

United Kingdom Ethylene Market Trends

Increased implementation of the derivative of ethylene such as ethylene glycol into the textile sector is a prominent trend aiding the United Kingdom ethylene market expansion. Ethylene glycol reacts with dimethyl terephthalate to form a polyester which is a cost-effective, lightweight, and durable clothing material.

The rising popularity of ethylene oxide in the sterilisation of medical devices such as surgical kits, heart valves, pacemakers, syringes, and ventilators, among others, to prevent the risk of infections from bacteria and viruses, also boosts the United Kingdom ethylene market. It is used for the effective sterilisation of devices that are sensitive to heat and moisture and cannot be sterilised by the traditional steam sterilisation method.

Market Segmentation

“United Kingdom Ethylene Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Polyethylene dominates the United Kingdom ethylene market share due to the rising demand for packaging films and bottles

Polyethylene occupies a significant portion of the market share, owing to its growing usage in the production of packaging films and bottles, among others. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) finds growing applications in the agricultural sector for ropes and fishing nets, due to its high tensile strength.

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is utilised in water pipes and hoses, due to its low absorption rate and chemical resistance. Additionally, the growing demand for cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) for power cables, due to their high heat resistance and long service life boosts the market growth.

Besides, ethylene oxide is used in the manufacturing of personal care products, household cleaners, and fabrics. The chemical also plays an integral role in the sterilisation of medical devices and personal protective equipment. With the growing focus on sustainability, key players are investing in R&D activities to develop eco-friendly ethylene oxide, further fuelling the United Kingdom ethylene market.

The use of ethylene in the packaging sector is significantly rising due to the growing preference for recyclable packaging solutions in the UK

The packaging sector accounts for a substantial market share, owing to the high demand for recyclable polyethylene (PE) packaging in end-use sectors such as food and beverages, and consumer goods, among others, to contribute to the circular economy.

Moreover, the automotive sector is also expected to witness sizeable growth in the coming years, due to the increased incorporation of PE in automotive parts such as plastic fuel tanks as well as ethylene glycol as a coolant in car radiators to prevent overheating. Meanwhile, in the building and construction sector, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene is widely used due to its favourable properties such as excellent mechanical and chemical strength, resistance to ageing and temperature, and lightweight, among others.

Competitive Landscape

Major players in the United Kingdom ethylene market are attempting to boost the sustainability profile of ethylene

Other United Kingdom ethylene market players include SABIC and Chevron Corporation, among others.

Key Highlights of the Report