Global Butadiene Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Product;
SBR, Butadiene Rubber, SB Latex, ABS, HMDA, NBR, and Others.By Production Process;
C4 Hydrocarbon Extraction, N-butane Dehydrogenation, From Ethanol, and From Butenes.By End-User;
Automobile Industries, Chemical, Plastics and Polymers, Building & Construction, Consumer Products Industries, Healthcare, and Others.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East Africa, and Latin America.Introduction
Global Butadiene Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Butadiene Market was valued at USD 18,049.16 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 38,609.95 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.5%.
The global butadiene market is a key component of the petrochemical industry, driven by its extensive use as a building block in the production of synthetic rubber and various polymers. Butadiene, a highly reactive, colorless gas derived primarily from the steam cracking of hydrocarbons such as ethane, propane, and naphtha, plays a pivotal role in manufacturing products across automotive, construction, consumer goods, and industrial sectors. The increasing demand for rubber-based products, especially synthetic rubber, is one of the primary factors fueling the growth of the butadiene market. Given that synthetic rubber is an essential material for tire manufacturing, the automotive industry significantly influences the butadiene market. As automotive production and demand continue to rise, particularly in emerging economies, the need for butadiene-derived rubber is expected to increase correspondingly.
Additionally, the butadiene market benefits from its application in producing various polymers like acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), which are widely used in manufacturing plastics, adhesives, sealants, and coatings. These materials are essential in construction and electronics, further driving demand for butadiene as these industries expand globally. However, the market is facing challenges, such as fluctuating raw material prices and increasing regulatory pressures for safer, more sustainable alternatives due to the environmental impact of butadiene. To address these challenges, companies are investing in research and development (R&D) to improve production efficiencies and reduce environmental footprints. As global economic conditions, industrial activities, and consumer demands evolve, the butadiene market is poised to adapt, with technological innovations and sustainable production practices shaping its future trajectory.
Global Butadiene Market Recent Developments
-
In January 2024, Evonik announced the expansion of its capacities for hydroxyl-terminated polybutadienes (HTPB) in Central and South America. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for these specialized polybutadiene products, crucial in aerospace, defense, and electronics for applications like solid rocket fuels and adhesives. The increased capacity is part of Evonik's strategic effort to strengthen its market position and support customers in the region with reliable supply.
-
In January 2024, a new bio-based butadiene production facility began operation in Bordeaux, France, using ethanol as a feedstock. This plant demonstrates a crucial step toward sustainable butadiene production, capable of producing up to 30 tons annually
Segment Analysis
The Global Butadiene Market has been segmented by product type, production process, end-user, and geography, each of which plays a vital role in shaping the market dynamics. By product type, butadiene is primarily used in the production of synthetic rubber, which accounts for the largest share of the market. Synthetic rubber, particularly styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and polybutadiene rubber (BR), is widely used in the manufacturing of tires, automotive components, and industrial products. Additionally, butadiene is used in the production of chemicals like butadiene-based resins, adhesives, and polymers, contributing to its widespread demand across various sectors. The growing need for high-performance materials in automotive and industrial applications continues to drive the consumption of butadiene, further solidifying its position as a key chemical compound.
In terms of production process, butadiene is typically produced through methods such as C4 hydrocarbon extraction, n-butane dehydrogenation, and from ethanol or butenes. C4 hydrocarbon extraction remains the most common process, especially in refining operations, due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. N-butane dehydrogenation is gaining traction due to its ability to produce high-purity butadiene with fewer by-products, making it a favored option in regions with developed petrochemical infrastructure. The process of deriving butadiene from ethanol is growing in importance as a sustainable, bio-based alternative to conventional methods, driven by increasing environmental concerns and the demand for green chemistry solutions. The flexibility of these production processes ensures that the market can meet the diverse needs of different industries and regions, providing butadiene through the most efficient and cost-effective methods available.
The end-user segment reflects the vast applications of butadiene across industries such as automotive, chemicals, plastics, building and construction, healthcare, and consumer products. The automotive sector is the largest consumer, primarily using butadiene in the production of synthetic rubber for tires, which is crucial for the growing global automotive industry. The chemical and plastics industries also contribute significantly to market demand, where butadiene is used in the production of various polymers, resins, and other chemical intermediates. Furthermore, industries like healthcare and building and construction are witnessing growing butadiene consumption due to the increased use of durable and high-performance materials in medical devices, flooring, and roofing materials. The diverse range of applications in multiple industries ensures continued growth in the butadiene market as global demand for advanced materials and products expands.
Geographically, the butadiene market is experiencing significant growth across different regions, with North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific being the major contributors to global demand. North America and Europe, with their established petrochemical industries, remain key markets for butadiene, particularly in the automotive and chemical sectors. However, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to exhibit the fastest growth due to the rapid industrialization and urbanization in countries such as China and India. The increasing demand for automotive products, plastics, and consumer goods in these emerging markets is driving the butadiene market in the region. Additionally, the rise in sustainability initiatives and bio-based production methods is likely to influence market trends globally, particularly in regions with stringent environmental regulations. The varied geographical demand for butadiene highlights the global nature of the market and the different challenges and opportunities faced by producers across different regions.
Global Butadiene Market Analysis
In this report, the Global Butadiene Market has been segmented by Product Type, Production Process, End-User and Geography.
Global Butadiene Market, Segmentation by Product Type
The Global Butadiene Market has been segmented by Product Type into SBR, Butadiene Rubber, SB Latex, ABS, HMDA, NBR, and Others.
The primary application is Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR), which holds a significant share of the market due to its extensive use in the automotive industry, particularly in tire manufacturing. SBR’s durability, flexibility, and resistance to abrasion make it an ideal material for producing high-performance tires and other rubber components, which are in high demand as global automotive production continues to grow.
Butadiene Rubber (BR) is another important application segment, valued for its excellent elasticity and resistance to wear. This makes BR particularly suitable for manufacturing tires, belts, and other industrial goods. Styrene Butadiene (SB) Latex is widely used in the paper and carpet backing industries, as well as in adhesives and coatings, due to its binding properties and ability to enhance product durability.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer used in various industries, including automotive, electronics, and consumer goods, because of its impact resistance, strength, and versatility. Its application in producing automotive parts, appliances, and toys underscores its role as a major segment within the butadiene market.
Hexamethylenediamine (HMDA), although a smaller segment, is important as it serves as a precursor in the synthesis of nylon and other specialty polymers, especially in the textile and plastics industries. Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) is another significant segment, primarily used in the manufacturing of hoses, seals, and gaskets for the automotive and industrial sectors, where its oil and chemical resistance is highly valued.
Global Butadiene Market, Segmentation by Production Process
The Global Butadiene Market has been segmented by Production Process into C4 Hydrocarbon Extraction, N-butane Dehydrogenation, From Ethanol, and From Butenes.
C4 hydrocarbon extraction is one of the most common methods used for butadiene production, involving the separation of butadiene from other hydrocarbons in the C4 stream. This method is widely utilized in refineries, where butadiene is extracted from refinery off-gases, offering a high yield and cost-effectiveness. It is a crucial process in the petrochemical industry, contributing significantly to global butadiene supply.
N-butane dehydrogenation is another key production method, where n-butane is dehydrogenated to produce butadiene. This method is favored due to its high selectivity and relatively lower operating costs compared to other processes. N-butane dehydrogenation is mainly used in the production of butadiene for synthetic rubber, plastics, and other chemicals. The increasing demand for butadiene in various applications, such as in the automotive and chemical industries, has driven the adoption of this method, as it can produce high-purity butadiene with fewer by-products.
From ethanol is a growing production method where butadiene is derived from bio-based ethanol through catalytic processes. This method is gaining importance as a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods, with a reduced environmental footprint. The use of renewable feedstocks such as ethanol aligns with the global push for greener production processes and the development of bio-based chemicals. As the demand for sustainable and bio-derived chemicals increases, this process is expected to see higher adoption, especially in regions focused on environmental regulations and sustainable development.
From butenes, another method of production, involves the conversion of butenes, which are obtained from cracking processes, into butadiene. This method is typically used in conjunction with ethylene production and is a widely employed process in the petrochemical industry. It offers high efficiency and is favored for large-scale industrial production of butadiene, especially in areas with established butene production infrastructure. Each of these production processes offers specific advantages, and the choice of method depends on factors such as feedstock availability, environmental considerations, and end-use requirements.
Global Butadiene Market, Segmentation by End-User
The Global Butadiene Market has been segmented by End-User into Automobile Industries, Chemical, Plastics and Polymers, Building & Construction, Consumer Products Industries, Healthcare, and Others.
The demand for high-performance tires, which require synthetic rubber with specific durability and safety characteristics, continues to drive the consumption of butadiene in this sector. As the automotive industry grows, particularly in emerging markets, the need for butadiene in tire manufacturing remains significant.
In the chemical industry, butadiene is a key building block for the production of a wide range of chemicals, including synthetic rubbers, resins, and various polymers. It is used in the manufacturing of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and butadiene rubber (BR), which are essential for the production of automotive parts, footwear, and industrial goods. The chemical industry’s high demand for butadiene continues to fuel its growth, especially as the demand for advanced materials and sustainable solutions increases.
In the plastics and polymers sector, butadiene is utilized in the production of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and other polymers, which are widely used in manufacturing automotive parts, electronics, household goods, and packaging materials. The increasing demand for durable and lightweight materials across various industries, including electronics and consumer goods, is driving the growth of butadiene usage in plastics and polymers. As the world’s focus shifts to recycling and sustainable plastic alternatives, the market for butadiene in this sector is expected to evolve further.
The building and construction industry also relies on butadiene-derived materials, particularly synthetic rubbers and resins, which are used in flooring, roofing, and other construction materials. In the consumer products industry, butadiene plays a role in the manufacturing of products such as footwear, adhesives, and coatings. The healthcare sector uses butadiene in the production of medical devices and materials that require specific properties like flexibility and durability. Finally, the "others" category includes niche applications in various sectors such as electronics, textiles, and agriculture, where butadiene is used for specialized materials and products. As the global economy expands, these diverse industries are expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the butadiene market.
Global Butadiene Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Butadiene Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Butadiene Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America is a significant market for butadiene, largely driven by its established automotive and industrial sectors, which rely on synthetic rubber and butadiene-based polymers. The region benefits from advanced infrastructure, high consumption of automotive products, and substantial demand for materials like Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) in manufacturing and construction. The presence of major butadiene producers and steady innovation in the petrochemical industry also support the market’s growth in this region.
Europe holds a substantial share of the butadiene market, fueled by a strong automotive industry and a rising demand for environmentally friendly alternatives. European Union regulations and an emphasis on sustainable materials have encouraged the use of advanced, low-emission butadiene applications, particularly in ABS and SB latex for use in consumer goods and packaging. Moreover, the presence of stringent environmental standards drives investment in eco-friendly production technologies across the region.
The Asia Pacific region dominates the global butadiene market in terms of demand, primarily due to the rapid industrialization, urbanization, and economic growth in countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea. Asia Pacific’s expanding automotive and construction industries are significant consumers of SBR and BR for tires, adhesives, and industrial applications. Additionally, the region’s growing electronics and consumer goods industries support demand for ABS, making Asia Pacific a focal point for butadiene demand.
In the Middle East and Africa, the butadiene market is largely supported by the region’s abundant oil and gas resources, which provide a cost-effective supply of raw materials. The industrial and construction sectors are major consumers of butadiene-based products, while the region’s growing urban population drives demand for consumer goods. Although smaller than other regions, the Middle East and Africa present opportunities for expansion, particularly in applications related to infrastructure and automotive.
Latin America is an emerging market for butadiene, with growth driven by increasing industrialization, automotive production, and consumer demand for synthetic rubber and polymer-based goods. Countries like Brazil and Argentina are key markets where the automotive and construction sectors are expanding, leading to greater demand for butadiene in rubber and plastic applications. Additionally, Latin America’s focus on economic development and modernization creates opportunities for butadiene producers in the region
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Butadiene Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers
- Growing Demand for Synthetic Rubber in Automotive and Tire Manufacturing
- Expansion of Polymer Applications Across Consumer Goods and Construction
-
Industrial Growth in Emerging Economies-Industrial growth in emerging economies is a significant driver for the global butadiene market, as countries such as China, India, Brazil, and parts of Southeast Asia experience rapid urbanization and economic expansion. This industrialization has spurred demand for products across various sectors, particularly automotive, construction, and consumer goods, all of which heavily rely on butadiene-based materials. Synthetic rubber, especially Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and Butadiene Rubber (BR), are essential for tire manufacturing, which supports the growing automotive industry in these regions. As vehicle ownership rates rise and infrastructure projects expand, the need for butadiene-derived products is expected to grow steadily, supporting the overall market demand.
The increasing consumer base and rising disposable incomes in these emerging economies are fueling demand for durable goods, electronics, and packaged products, where butadiene-based polymers like Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) play a vital role. ABS is commonly used in producing household appliances, electronic enclosures, and automotive parts, aligning with the growing manufacturing sector in these regions. As countries like China and India continue to invest in modernizing their industrial capacities, the demand for butadiene is likely to increase, driven by a mix of infrastructure needs, consumer goods, and automotive production. This industrial growth not only strengthens the current market but also creates long-term opportunities for butadiene producers as these economies continue to expand and diversify.
Restraints
- Fluctuating Raw Material Prices and Supply Constraints
- Stringent Environmental Regulations and Health Concerns
-
Rising Competition from Sustainable and Bio-Based Alternatives-The global butadiene market is facing increasing competition from sustainable and bio-based alternatives, driven by growing environmental awareness and regulatory pressures to reduce carbon emissions. Traditional butadiene is derived from petroleum-based processes, which are associated with high carbon footprints and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In response, bio-based butadiene, produced from renewable feedstocks like biomass and bioethanol, is emerging as a more sustainable option. Companies and governments are investing in R&D to develop efficient bio-based butadiene production methods, which have the potential to reduce the industry’s environmental impact and meet rising demand for green materials. This shift is particularly pronounced in regions with stringent environmental regulations, such as Europe and North America, where the preference for eco-friendly materials is becoming a key factor in purchasing decisions.
The rise of alternative green materials and bio-based polymers is impacting the demand for butadiene in specific applications. For example, bio-based alternatives to Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) are gaining traction as manufacturers across sectors—from automotive to consumer goods—seek to meet sustainability goals. This growing focus on reducing reliance on fossil fuels is creating new market dynamics, with companies exploring bio-derived feedstocks to enhance their environmental credibility. Although bio-based butadiene remains a smaller segment compared to traditional butadiene, it presents a competitive challenge that could reshape the industry’s landscape as production technologies advance and costs decrease, making bio-based butadiene a viable alternative for a broad range of applications.
Opportunities
- Development of Bio-Based Butadiene and Green Production Technologies
- Increasing Demand in Emerging Markets with Expanding Automotive and Industrial Sectors
-
Advancements in High-Performance Polymers and Specialty Applications-Advancements in high-performance polymers and specialty applications are significantly driving the global butadiene market, as industries demand more durable, lightweight, and efficient materials for a variety of uses. Butadiene plays a key role in producing polymers like Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), which is widely used in automotive, electronics, and consumer goods. The ongoing development of high-performance polymers, which offer superior strength, heat resistance, and flexibility, is expanding the application scope of butadiene-derived products. In particular, ABS and Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) are becoming increasingly essential in producing lighter automotive parts, electronics components, and high-quality packaging materials, meeting the growing consumer demand for advanced materials. These advancements are opening up new avenues for butadiene use, boosting its demand in sectors where performance and longevity are critical.
Moreover, the rise of specialty applications is further contributing to butadiene’s market growth. Industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and electronics are leveraging butadiene-based materials for specialized uses, such as in medical devices, precision engineering, and advanced coatings. For example, butadiene-based polymers are increasingly used in producing high-performance adhesives, coatings, and seals that are essential in high-stress environments, including automotive and industrial machinery. As technology advances, the need for specialized polymers with specific properties—such as chemical resistance, flexibility, or high thermal stability—is increasing, driving demand for butadiene in these niche markets. These advancements are transforming the butadiene market by creating opportunities for the development of innovative products, ensuring that butadiene remains a key material in the growing demand for specialized, high-performance solutions across various industries.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Butadiene Market include;
- ExxonMobil Chemical Company
- Royal Dutch Shell Plc.
- BASF SE
- Sinopec
- TPC Group Inc.
- Braskem S.A.
- LyondellBasell Industries N.V.
- ENI S.p.A.
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Product Type
- Market Snapshot, By Production Process
- Market Snapshot, By End-User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Butadiene Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Growing Demand for Synthetic Rubber in Automotive and Tire Manufacturing
- Expansion of Polymer Applications Across Consumer Goods and Construction
- Industrial Growth in Emerging Economies
- Restraints
- Fluctuating Raw Material Prices and Supply Constraints
- Stringent Environmental Regulations and Health Concerns
- Rising Competition from Sustainable and Bio-Based Alternatives
- Opportunities
- Development of Bio-Based Butadiene and Green Production Technologies
- Increasing Demand in Emerging Markets with Expanding Automotive and Industrial Sectors
- Advancements in High-Performance Polymers and Specialty Applications
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Butadiene Market, By Product Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- SBR
- Butadiene Rubber
- SB Latex
- ABS
- HMDA
- NBR
- Others
- Global Butadiene Market, By Production Process, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- C4 Hydrocarbon Extraction
- N-butane Dehydrogenation
- From Ethanol
- From Butenes
- Global Butadiene Market, By End-User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Automobile Industries
- Chemical
- Plastics and Polymers
- Building & Construction
- Consumer Products Industries
- Healthcare
- Others
- Global Butadiene Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Butadiene Market, By Product Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company profiles
- ExxonMobil Chemical Company
- Royal Dutch Shell Plc.
- BASF SE
- Sinopec
- TPC Group Inc.
- Braskem S.A.
- LyondellBasell Industries N.V.
- ENI S.p.A.
- Company profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market