Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In February 2021, LANXESS signed a binding agreement to acquire 100 percent shares in Emerald Kalama Chemical on February 14, 2021. The US-based company is a globally leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals, especially for the consumer segment, and is majority-owned by affiliates of the US private equity firm, American Securities LLC.

• In August 2019, Nouryon planned to double capacity at its surfactants plant in Stenungsund, Sweden, to support the growth of several existing products as well as new sustainable technologies for markets, including oil and gas, lubricants, and fuels, and asphalt. The USD 14-million expansion and upgrade project include the installation of a new reactor and is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2021. It will increase the production and innovation in corrosion inhibitors.

• In October 2018, SUEZ announced the signature of 19 contracts in Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, and Costa Rica. These contracts are part of the Group’s development drive in Latin America and the Caribbean, which account for 7% of its global turnover and represent over 7000 employees in 10 countries. With these new contracts, SUEZ strengthened its presence in water services management in large cities and developed in new markets of waste management and industrial services.

The global inorganic corrosion inhibitor market is segmented by type into anodic inhibitors and cathodic inhibitors, each serving distinct purposes in protecting metal surfaces from corrosion. Anodic inhibitors work by forming a protective oxide film on the metal surface, which helps to prevent corrosion by reducing the metal's electrochemical reactivity. These inhibitors are widely used in water treatment plants and oil & gas industries, where they protect systems from the harsh chemical environments found in these applications. On the other hand, cathodic inhibitors prevent corrosion by reducing the cathodic reaction (typically oxygen reduction), often in systems where metals are exposed to water and other electrolytes. Cathodic inhibitors are commonly used in oil & gas pipelines and in industrial water treatment, where they help mitigate corrosion caused by the presence of salts and other corrosive elements.

In terms of application, the oil & gas industry is one of the largest consumers of inorganic corrosion inhibitors. The sector relies heavily on both anodic and cathodic inhibitors to protect pipelines, drilling rigs, and refining equipment from corrosion caused by chemicals like hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and saltwater. These inhibitors play a crucial role in ensuring the longevity and efficiency of infrastructure in this industry, as corrosion can lead to costly repairs, equipment failure, and safety hazards. With the expansion of offshore oil drilling and the increasing demand for oil and gas globally, the need for effective corrosion control has never been more critical.

The water treatment plants sector also relies heavily on inorganic corrosion inhibitors to protect metal components in boilers, cooling systems, and distribution pipelines. These inhibitors, particularly anodic types, are used to prevent corrosion and scaling that could compromise the efficiency of water treatment systems. With growing concerns over the aging infrastructure in many parts of the world, there is a significant demand for corrosion inhibitors to maintain the performance and reliability of water treatment plants. Additionally, the other segment includes a wide range of industries, such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing, where inorganic corrosion inhibitors are used to protect metal structures, machinery, and parts from environmental damage, further driving market growth.

Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market has been segmented by Type, Application, and Geography.

Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market has been segmented by Type into Anodic inhibitors and Cathodic inhibitors.

The anodic inhibitors function by passivating metal surfaces, forming a protective oxide layer that prevents the initiation and propagation of corrosion reactions. These inhibitors are typically used in environments where metal oxidation is the predominant corrosion mechanism, such as acidic solutions or environments containing aggressive oxidizing agents. Anodic inhibitors include compounds such as chromates, phosphates, and nitrites, which are effective in providing long-term corrosion protection for various metal substrates.

Cathodic inhibitors work by suppressing the cathodic half-reaction of the corrosion process, thereby inhibiting the reduction of oxygen or hydrogen ions on metal surfaces. Cathodic inhibitors are often used in environments where cathodic reactions, such as oxygen reduction or hydrogen evolution, play a significant role in corrosion, such as alkaline solutions or environments with high concentrations of dissolved oxygen. Common cathodic inhibitors include compounds such as molybdates, tungstates, and nitrites, which act by forming insoluble precipitates or adsorbing onto metal surfaces to block cathodic sites and inhibit corrosion.

The choice between anodic and cathodic inhibitors depends on factors such as the specific corrosive environment, metal substrate, and desired level of corrosion protection. In some cases, a combination of both types of inhibitors may be used synergistically to provide comprehensive corrosion protection across a wide range of conditions. The selection of the most suitable inhibitor type and formulation is critical to achieving effective corrosion control and prolonging the service life of metal assets in various industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, transportation, and infrastructure.

Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market has been segmented by Application into Oil & gas industry, Water treatment plants, and Other.

The global inorganic corrosion inhibitor market is primarily segmented by application into three key sectors: the oil & gas industry, water treatment plants, and other applications. In the oil & gas industry, corrosion inhibitors are crucial for protecting metal surfaces in pipelines, rigs, and refining equipment from the harsh effects of corrosive substances like water, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide. The increasing demand for oil exploration and production, especially in offshore environments, has significantly driven the need for effective corrosion protection in this sector, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of critical infrastructure.

In water treatment plants, inorganic corrosion inhibitors are essential for preventing the corrosion of metal components in boilers, pipelines, and cooling systems. The growing global need for clean water, coupled with the aging infrastructure of many treatment plants, has led to an increased focus on maintenance and protection of equipment, where corrosion inhibitors play a vital role. These inhibitors help maintain system integrity and reduce operational downtime, making them critical in ensuring efficient water treatment processes across various regions.

The other segment of the market includes a variety of applications where inorganic corrosion inhibitors are used to protect metals and alloys in industries like construction, automotive, and manufacturing. In these sectors, the inhibitors prevent degradation of materials used in heavy machinery, infrastructure, and automotive parts. The increasing adoption of corrosion inhibitors in diverse industrial applications reflects their importance in extending the lifespan of equipment and reducing maintenance costs. As industries continue to emphasize the need for durable and reliable materials, the demand for inorganic corrosion inhibitors across various sectors is expected to rise.

Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America, comprising the United States and Canada, represents a mature market for inorganic corrosion inhibitors, driven by extensive industrialization across sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and infrastructure. Stringent environmental regulations and industry standards mandate the use of corrosion inhibitors to protect critical assets and infrastructure against corrosion, thereby driving market demand. Ongoing investments in infrastructure renewal and maintenance projects further bolster the demand for corrosion inhibition solutions in North America.

In Europe, which includes countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France, the market for inorganic corrosion inhibitors is characterized by advanced technologies, stringent regulatory requirements, and a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. European industries prioritize asset integrity management and corrosion control strategies to ensure the reliability and safety of infrastructure assets, including pipelines, refineries, and chemical processing plants. The adoption of corrosion inhibitors is driven by the need to comply with regulations such as the European Union's REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation, which aims to protect human health and the environment from the risks associated with chemicals, including corrosion inhibitors.

The Asia Pacific region, encompassing countries such as China, India, Japan, and Australia, represents a rapidly growing market for inorganic corrosion inhibitors, propelled by robust industrialization, urbanization, and infrastructure development. Rising investments in sectors such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, power generation, and construction drive the demand for corrosion inhibition solutions to protect critical infrastructure and equipment from corrosion damage. Stringent environmental regulations and increasing awareness of the importance of asset protection and sustainability further fuel market growth in the Asia Pacific region. As industries in the region continue to expand and modernize, the demand for inorganic corrosion inhibitors is expected to rise steadily, presenting lucrative opportunities for market players.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Industrial Expansion
• Regulatory Compliance

• Asset Protection : Asset protection lies at the core of the global inorganic corrosion inhibitor market, where these chemical compounds serve as essential tools in preserving the integrity and longevity of metal assets across diverse industries. Inorganic corrosion inhibitors form a vital line of defense against the destructive forces of corrosion, which can lead to structural degradation, equipment failure, and costly downtime. By effectively inhibiting corrosion processes, these inhibitors help to extend the service life of metal infrastructure, machinery, and equipment, thus reducing maintenance costs and enhancing operational reliability.

  Industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, power generation, manufacturing, transportation, and infrastructure rely heavily on inorganic corrosion inhibitors to protect critical assets from corrosion-related damage. In the oil and gas sector, for example, pipelines, storage tanks, and offshore platforms are exposed to harsh environments containing corrosive substances such as hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and saltwater. Inorganic inhibitors play a crucial role in mitigating corrosion in these environments, preventing costly leaks, spills, and environmental damage. In the power generation industry, boilers, turbines, and cooling systems are susceptible to corrosion caused by high temperatures, pressure, and water chemistry. Corrosion inhibitors help to maintain the efficiency and reliability of power plants by preventing corrosion-related failures and optimizing asset performance.

  Effective asset protection with inorganic corrosion inhibitors requires careful selection of inhibitor type, formulation, and application method based on the specific operating conditions and corrosion challenges faced by each industry. Manufacturers and end-users collaborate closely to develop corrosion control strategies tailored to the unique needs and requirements of their assets. By implementing proactive corrosion management practices and investing in corrosion inhibition solutions, industries can minimize the risks and costs associated with corrosion-related damage, ensuring the long-term integrity and productivity of their valuable assets.

Restraints

• Environmental Regulations
• Cost Concerns

• Compatibility Issues : Compatibility issues represent a significant challenge in the Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market, particularly concerning the interaction between inhibitors and the materials they are intended to protect. Inorganic corrosion inhibitors are formulated to create a protective barrier on metal surfaces, preventing corrosive processes from occurring. Certain inhibitors may exhibit compatibility issues with specific metals, alloys, or coatings, leading to unintended consequences such as reduced inhibition effectiveness, accelerated corrosion, or material degradation. These compatibility concerns are especially critical in industries like oil & gas, water treatment, and aerospace, where a wide range of metals and alloys are used in equipment and infrastructure.

  The complexity of industrial environments further exacerbates compatibility challenges, as corrosion inhibitors may come into contact with various substances such as acids, bases, salts, and organic compounds. Interactions between inhibitors and other chemicals can alter inhibitor performance or lead to chemical reactions that compromise the integrity of protective coatings or metal surfaces. Factors such as temperature, pressure, and flow dynamics can influence inhibitor behavior and exacerbate compatibility issues, making it essential for manufacturers to thoroughly evaluate inhibitor formulations under relevant operating conditions to ensure compatibility with intended applications.

  Addressing compatibility issues requires a comprehensive understanding of the chemical interactions between corrosion inhibitors and materials in different industrial environments. Manufacturers of inorganic corrosion inhibitors must conduct thorough testing and evaluation to assess compatibility with various metals, alloys, coatings, and process conditions. This may involve conducting corrosion compatibility tests, material compatibility studies, and performance evaluations in simulated operating environments to identify potential compatibility issues and optimize inhibitor formulations for specific applications. By proactively addressing compatibility concerns, manufacturers can ensure the effectiveness and reliability of corrosion inhibition solutions, enabling industries to protect critical infrastructure and equipment from corrosion-related damage and extend their service life.

Opportunities

• Infrastructure Protection
• Oil & Gas

• Power Generation : In the power generation industry, inorganic corrosion inhibitors play a crucial role in protecting critical infrastructure and equipment from corrosion-related damage. Power generation facilities, including thermal power plants, nuclear power plants, and renewable energy installations, rely on a wide range of metal components and systems that are exposed to corrosive environments such as high temperatures, moisture, and chemical contaminants. Corrosion in power generation equipment can lead to efficiency losses, operational disruptions, and safety hazards, underscoring the importance of effective corrosion control measures.

  Inorganic corrosion inhibitors are extensively used in power generation facilities to mitigate corrosion in boilers, steam turbines, condensers, heat exchangers, cooling systems, and auxiliary equipment. These inhibitors are tailored to withstand the harsh conditions prevalent in power generation environments and provide long-term protection against corrosion mechanisms such as oxidation, pitting, and stress corrosion cracking. For instance, in thermal power plants, where steam boilers are subjected to high temperatures and pressures, chromate-based inhibitors are commonly employed to passivate metal surfaces and prevent corrosion in boiler tubes and piping systems.

  In nuclear power plants, where corrosion can compromise the integrity of reactor coolant systems and containment structures, inorganic corrosion inhibitors are essential for maintaining safety and reliability. Corrosion inhibitors are used in various applications, including reactor coolant treatment, steam generator water chemistry control, and corrosion monitoring. Cathodic inhibitors, such as molybdates and tungstates, are often utilized to protect reactor internals and components from corrosion under alkaline conditions. Corrosion inhibitors are employed in renewable energy installations such as solar thermal power plants and geothermal facilities to protect metal components from degradation and extend their service life. Inorganic corrosion inhibitors play a critical role in ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of power generation facilities by preventing corrosion-related failures and minimizing maintenance costs.

Key players in Global Inorganic Corrosion Inhibitor Market include:

• Nouryon (Amsterdam)
• Henkel (Germany)
• The Lubrizol (US)
• BASF SE (Germany)
• Ecolab Inc. (US)
• Solenis LLC (US)
• Baker Hughes (US)
• Lonza (Switzerland)
• The Dow Chemical Company (US)
• Suez S.A. (France)

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