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市場調查報告書
商品編碼
1801151
乙二醇市場規模、佔有率、趨勢及預測(按產品、製造流程、應用、最終用途產業和地區),2025 年至 2033 年Ethylene Glycol Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Product, Manufacturing Process, Application, End-Use Industry, and Region, 2025-2033 |
2024年全球乙二醇市場規模為482.1億美元。預計到2033年,該市場規模將達到681.9億美元,2025年至2033年複合年成長率為3.73%。市場成長的動力源自於都市化進程加快、可支配收入增加、基礎建設的大量投資,以及該地區作為全球聚酯和塑膠製造中心的地位。
全球乙二醇市場的成長是由紡織業(尤其是新興經濟體)對聚酯纖維需求的不斷成長所驅動的。此外,受聚對苯二甲酸乙二醇酯 (PET) 瓶和容器需求的推動,包裝產業也在不斷擴張,這也促進了市場擴張。例如,2024 年 4 月,可口可樂宣佈在美國投資 1 億美元興建 PET 瓶回收廠,將大幅增加乙二醇的消費量。此外,汽車產業在防凍劑和冷卻劑應用方面對乙二醇的依賴也推動了市場的成長。此外,城市化和基礎設施建設的加快推動了對塑膠和樹脂的需求,為市場提供了動力。此外,生產流程的持續技術進步提高了效率和產量,也刺激了市場需求。此外,製藥業在醫療應用中對乙二醇的使用不斷成長,創造了穩定的需求,並支持了市場擴張。
美國乙二醇市場需求主要受頁岩氣熱潮推動,頁岩氣熱潮顯著降低了原料成本,並提高了生產效率。同時,在永續發展措施的推動下,生物基乙二醇的日益普及也增強了其市場佔有率。例如,2024年,新能源化學品公司與陶氏合作,為永續塑膠生產提供生物基乙烯,彰顯了向環保解決方案的轉變。同時,蓬勃發展的航太工業在除冰液中使用乙二醇,推動了市場成長。此外,不斷擴張的電子商務行業增加了對PET包裝的需求,這為市場提供了動力。此外,建築活動的增加也推動了對樹脂和塑膠的需求,從而促進了市場成長。此外,再生能源(RE)技術的不斷進步,例如太陽能板在傳熱流體中使用乙二醇,也推動了市場的發展。
市場主要受到生產方法的持續技術進步、戰略合作夥伴關係以及向生物基乙二醇轉變的影響。該領域取得了一些進展。例如,2024年6月27日,Technip Energies宣布收購殼牌催化劑與科技公司的乙二醇純化技術,以加速其用於生物基單乙二醇(MEG)生產的Bio 2 Glycols™平台。該協議將殼牌的研發進步與Technip Energies專有的生物MEG製程相結合,以提高效率,並為聚酯製造中的化石基MEG提供低碳替代品。 Technip Energies預計在2025年升級後的技術商業化,以支持其致力於實現淨零碳排放目標的策略目標。此外,市場也面臨一些挑戰,包括原物料價格波動以及對石化生產的環境擔憂。為了克服這些問題,企業正在投資更有效率的生產技術和永續的原料採購。此外,擴大再生乙二醇生產也帶來了重大機遇,有助於解決供應鏈挑戰和環境法規問題。
聚酯和PET樹脂生產中產品利用率的提高
乙二醇市場的擴張主要源自於聚酯生產需求的成長。合成紡織聚酯由乙二醇與對苯二甲酸化學結合而成。此外,乙二醇因其持久耐用、抗皺性能好且價格極具競爭力而被紡織品製造商廣泛使用。此外,用於食品和飲料包裝材料的PET樹脂和薄膜廣泛採用聚對苯二甲酸乙二醇酯化學合成,也推動了市場的成長。此外,PET需求顯著成長的主要原因有兩個:都市化趨勢和消費者生活方式的轉變導致包裝商品消費量增加。例如,聯合國資料顯示,到2050年,全球68%的人口將成為城市居民,這將推動包裝商品產量成長,並增加對PET包裝的需求。因此,人口結構的變化推動了乙二醇及其衍生產品的市場擴張。
汽車產業的快速擴張
乙二醇在汽車工業中被廣泛用作防凍劑和冷卻劑,這影響著乙二醇的市場趨勢。汽車工業製造中需要乙二醇作為散熱器冷卻劑,因為乙二醇的高沸點和低凝固點特性使引擎能夠在各種溫度下高效運作。新興經濟體汽車產業的成長直接刺激了乙二醇市場的需求,同時也支持了市場擴張。根據歐洲汽車製造商協會 (ACEA) 的資料, 2022 年全球生產了 8,540 萬輛機動車,比 2021 年成長 5.7%。同時,隨著汽車市場的擴張,包括乙二醇在內的整個汽車產業的需求都會增加。此外,電動車 (EV) 產量的增加正在促進市場成長,因為乙二醇可以主動冷卻這些汽車中使用的電池和電子元件。由於人們選擇永續的交通解決方案,電動車的普及為市場提供了支持。
產品廣泛應用於各種工業領域
乙二醇在各行各業有著廣泛的應用,對市場成長貢獻巨大。該化學物質是生產防凍液和液壓油的基本成分,並用作冷卻設備的熱交換介質。乙二醇在塗料和塑膠產業作為溶劑的應用推動了市場的成長。皮革行業廣泛使用乙二醇進行鞣製工藝,電子行業也使用乙二醇進行電容器製造,這些都得益於乙二醇的低揮發性和吸濕性等特性,推動了市場的成長。最近的行業報告顯示,中國正在進行的城鎮化進程,目標是到2030年城鎮人口達到70%,這催生了對乙二醇的巨大需求,乙二醇主要用於住宅和商業建築建設。市場預計,隨著未來幾年建築材料和冷卻系統需求的激增,城鎮化將呈指數級成長。持續的技術改進和產業創新也為乙二醇開闢了新的應用領域,市場也呈現成長態勢。
科技快速進步
乙二醇應用和生產領域的持續技術進步對市場成長發揮關鍵作用。創新的生產方法推動了市場成長,這些方法可以實現經濟高效且環保的乙二醇合成。催化技術和製程最佳化的最新進展透過提高產量同時降低能耗促進了市場擴張,從而形成了更永續、更經濟的生產系統。新技術進步使生產商能夠利用再生生質能材料生產乙二醇,進一步支持了市場擴張。 2023 年 6 月,巴西石化公司位於巴西南里奧格蘭德州特里溫福的工廠生物基乙烯產量提高了 30%。 8,700 萬美元的注資旨在滿足全球對永續產品日益成長的需求。由於環境擔憂和官方減排要求,市場持續擴張。
非離子界面活性劑需求不斷成長
乙二醇是非離子界面活性劑生產過程中的基本成分,用於洗滌劑、乳化劑和潤濕劑。非離子界面活性劑因其穩定性和非反應性而被廣泛應用於工業和消費品中。非離子界面活性劑廣泛應用於家用清潔產品和個人護理產品,以及工業用途,在工業中用作食品工業乳化劑、農業化學品和紡織品加工劑。此外,市場成長受到消費者支出能力上升、快速城市化以及衛生清潔意識增強等因素的推動。聯合國糧食及農業組織預測,2050年,世界人口將超過90億人。未來的糧食需求將使農業系統面臨前所未有的壓力。人口成長增加了對農產品的需求,從而導致農業化學品配方中表面活性劑的使用量增加。此外,表面活性劑化學領域的新突破以及先進的化學製劑開發技術正在增強乙二醇市場的前景。
The global ethylene glycol market size was valued at USD 48.21 Billion in 2024. The market is projected to reach USD 68.19 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.73% from 2025-2033. The market growth is attributed to growing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, significant investments in infrastructure development, and the region's role as a global manufacturing hub for polyester and plastics.
The global ethylene glycol market growth is driven by the rising demand for polyester fibers in the textile industry, particularly in emerging economies. In addition, the expanding packaging industry, driven by the need for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and containers are contributing to the market expansion. For instance, in April 2024, Coca-Cola announced a USD100 million investment in PET bottle recycling plants in the U.S., significantly increasing ethylene glycol consumption. Moreover, the automotive sector's reliance on ethylene glycol for antifreeze and coolant applications is impelling the market growth. Besides this, the increasing urbanization and infrastructure development drive the demand for plastics and resins, providing an impetus to the market. Also, ongoing technological advancements in production processes enhance efficiency and output, fueling the market demand. Furthermore, the growing pharmaceutical industry's use of ethylene glycol in medical applications creates steady demand, supporting the market expansion.
The United States ethylene glycol market demand is primarily driven by the shale gas boom, which has significantly reduced raw material costs and enhanced production efficiency. In line with this, the growing adoption of bio-based ethylene glycol, driven by sustainability initiatives, is strengthening the market share. For example, in 2024, New Energy Chemicals partnered with Dow to supply biobased ethylene for sustainable plastics production, highlighting the shift toward eco-friendly solutions. Concurrently, the robust aerospace industry utilizes ethylene glycol in de-icing fluids, boosting the market growth. Additionally, the expanding e-commerce sector increases demand for PET packaging, which is providing an impetus to the market. Also, the rise in construction activities drives the need for resins and plastics, aiding the market growth. Apart from this, continuous advancements in renewable energy (RE) technologies, such as solar panels, which use ethylene glycol in heat transfer fluids, are thereby propelling the market forward.
The market is majorly influenced by the continual technological advancements in production methods, strategic partnerships, and the shift toward bio-based ethylene glycol. There are several developments in the sector. For instance, on June 27, 2024, Technip Energies announced the acquisition of glycol purification technology from Shell Catalysts & Technologies to accelerate its Bio 2 Glycols(TM) platform for bio based mono ethylene glycol (MEG) production. The agreement combines Shell's research and development (R&D) advancements with Technip Energies' proprietary bio MEG process to enhance efficiency and offer a lower carbon alternative to fossil based MEG in polyester manufacturing. Technip Energies expects to commercialize the upgraded technology by 2025, supporting its strategic objective to contribute to net zero carbon goals. Furthermore, there are a few challenges in the market, including fluctuating raw material prices and environmental concerns over petrochemical production. To overcome these, companies are investing in more efficient production techniques and sustainable sourcing of raw materials. Also, significant opportunities arise in expanding renewable-based ethylene glycol production, which can help address both supply chain challenges and environmental regulations.
The Increasing Product Utilization in Polyester and PET Resin Production
The expansion of ethylene glycol market stems primarily from rising polyester production requirements. The synthetic textile polyester is derived from the chemical combination of ethylene glycol with terephthalic acid. Additionally, textile manufacturers widely use ethylene glycol because of its long-term quality alongside its anti-wrinkling properties and competitive price. The market also expands because PET resins and films used as food and beverage packaging materials are extensively synthesized through polyethylene terephthalate chemistry. Besides this, PET demand experienced a notable increase due to two main factors, rising packaged goods consumption which results from both urbanization trends and shifting consumer life choices. For instance, the United Nations data suggests 68% of Earth's population will become urban residents by 2050 which will drive up packaged goods production and escalate PET-based packaging needs. As a result, the changing population structure drives an increased market expansion for ethylene glycol and derivative products.
Rapid Expansion of the Automotive Industry
Ethylene glycol is widely utilized in the automotive industry as an antifreeze and coolant, which is influencing the ethylene glycol market trends. As radiator coolants in manufacturing the automotive industry requires ethylene glycol because its high boiling point and low freezing point properties enable efficient engine operations across various temperatures. The growth of the automotive sector across emerging economies induces direct ethylene glycol market demand while supporting market expansion. According to European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) data from 2022 the world produced 85.4 million motor vehicles marking a 5.7% increase over 2021 figures. Concurrent to this, when the vehicle market expands then the entire automotive sector including ethylene glycol becomes more in demand. Furthermore, the increasing production of electric vehicles (EVs) is fostering the market growth, since ethylene glycol actively cools batteries and electronic components used in these vehicles. The market receives support from EV adoption because people choose sustainable transportation solutions.
Widespread Product Utilization in Various Industrial Applications
Ethylene glycol finds diverse applications in various industries, contributing significantly to the market growth. The chemical serves as a basic ingredient for producing antifreeze solutions and hydraulic fluids and operates as heat exchange medium in cooling equipment. The market grows through its utilization in paint and plastic industries as a solvent. The leather industry's extensive use of ethylene glycol for tanning processes and the electronics industry's use of ethylene glycol for capacitor manufacturing are fueling market growth thanks to its properties including low volatility and hygroscopic nature. A recent industry report indicates that China's ongoing urbanization push to reach a 70% urban population by 2030 has generated substantial demand for ethylene glycol which primarily serves residential and commercial building construction. The market expects urbanization to rise exponentially as construction material and cooling system requirements surge in the coming years. The market also shows growth due to both the continuous technological improvements and sector innovations which develop fresh applications for ethylene glycol.
Rapid Technological Advancements
Ongoing technological advancements in the application and production of ethylene glycol are playing a pivotal role in the market growth. The market growth is fueled by innovative production methods that enable cost-effective and environmentally friendly ethylene glycol synthesis. Recent advancements in catalysis techniques and process optimization have boosted market expansion by increasing yield while reducing energy consumption, resulting in more sustainable and economically viable production systems. The market expansion is further supported by new technological advances that allow producers to create ethylene glycol with renewable biomass materials. Braskem achieved a 30% boost in bio-based ethylene plant output at its Triunfo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil facility during June 2023. A USD 87 million capital injection aims to satisfy escalating global requirements for sustainable products. The market continues to expand due to environmental worries and official emission reduction requirements.
Rising Demand for Non-Ionic Surfactants
Ethylene glycol functions as a fundamental component during non-ionic surfactant production for detergents and emulsifiers and wetting agents. Non-ionic surfactants are widely used in both industrial and consumer products due to their stability and non-reactive properties. Non-ionic surfactants find extensive use in household cleaning products and personal care products as well as industrial usage where they act as food industry emulsifiers and agrochemicals and textile processing agents. Furthermore, the market growth is fueled factors such as the rising consumer spending power, rapid urbanization and increased awareness about hygiene and cleanliness. The Food and Agriculture Organization projects the world population will exceed 9 billion by 2050. Future food demands will require agricultural systems to operate under unprecedented pressure. The growing population increases agricultural product requirements which leads to higher surfactant usage in agrochemical formulations. Apart from this, new breakthroughs in surfactant chemistry together with advanced chemical formulation development techniques are enhancing the ethylene glycol market outlook.
According to the report, monoethylene glycol (MEG) represented the largest segment with 40.0% of the ethylene glycol market share. Monoethylene glycol (MEG) holds the largest market share.
Monoethylene Glycol (MEG) finds the majority of its usage as a major raw material in producing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resins, which are extensively applied in packaging, particularly in plastic bottles and food containers. Furthermore, MEG is also an important ingredient in the production of polyester fibers, which are widely used in the textile market. Its antifreeze and heat transfer fluid characteristics also render it indispensable for use in vehicles and HVAC applications. Growth in MEG demand is also fueled by the increasing use of PET in the beverage and apparel industries, especially in the developing economies of Asia Pacific. Continuing industrialization, mounting demand for consumer goods, and packaging industry growth support MEG's ongoing popularity in the ethylene glycol market to make it a crucial product segment worldwide.
The ethylene oxide process involves the reaction of ethylene oxide with water under high pressure and temperature, resulting in the production of ethylene glycol. The primary advantage of this method is its high efficiency and ability to produce ethylene glycol with a high purity level, which is crucial for applications in sensitive industries like food and pharmaceuticals.
The coal-based process for manufacturing ethylene glycol is an alternative method that has gained attention, especially in regions with abundant coal reserves and limited access to petrochemical feedstocks. This process involves the gasification of coal to produce syngas, which is then converted into ethylene glycol. Coal-based process offers a degree of energy independence and can be more cost-effective in coal-rich regions.
The biological route for producing ethylene glycol involves the use of bio-based feedstocks, such as sugars from biomass, to produce ethylene glycol through fermentation or other biological processes. It decreases reliance on fossil fuels and lowers the carbon footprint of ethylene glycol production. Additionally, recent innovations and technological advancements in biotechnology and biochemical engineering, making it easier to produce ethylene glycol, are fueling the market growth.
According to the report, PET represented the largest segment by holding 44.4% of the market share. PET (polyethylene terephthalate) holds the largest market share.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is the largest application segment in the ethylene glycol market and captures a major share of global demand. Ethylene glycol, or more specifically monoethylene glycol (MEG), is a major raw material employed in the manufacture of PET that is extensively used to make plastic bottles, food and drink containers, and man-made fibers. Increased demand for lightweight, strong, and recyclable packaging materials has fueled the use of PET, particularly in the food and beverage sectors. Additionally, the growing trend toward sustainable packaging options and the growing usage of bottled drinks in emerging markets further increase demand for PET. Further, the usage of PET in the textile industry, particularly for polyester fiber production, aids in market growth. With the growing use of PET in various high-growth sectors, its share in the ethylene glycol market remains high and increasing.
Ethylene glycol is used in the oil and gas industry for natural gas dehydration, a process that removes water vapor from natural gas to prevent hydrate formation and pipeline corrosion, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of gas. Additionally, ethylene glycol is utilized in hydraulic and drilling fluids within the industry.
The plastic industry relies on ethylene glycol as a key ingredient in producing polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a widely used plastic. PET is essential for various applications, including packaging materials like bottles and containers, as well as fibers for textiles. Furthermore, the increasing demand for sustainable and lightweight packaging solutions is driving market growth.
The transportation industry, encompassing the automotive and aviation sectors, is a vital end-use segment for ethylene glycol. In automotive applications, ethylene glycol is predominantly used as an antifreeze and coolant in vehicle cooling systems, which is essential for maintaining engine performance and longevity. Additionally, ethylene glycol is used in the aviation industry for producing deicing solutions for aircraft.
In the medical industry, ethylene glycol is used in various pharmaceutical products and medical processes. It serves as a solvent and stabilizer in pharmaceutical formulations and as a desiccant in packaging to protect medications from moisture. Additionally, ethylene glycol is involved in the production of medical devices and equipment, where its chemical stability and compatibility with other materials are advantageous.
The textile industry utilizes ethylene glycol in the production of polyester fibers. It is widely used in fabrics due to its durability, resistance to wrinkling, and ease of maintenance. Additionally, the growing demand for polyester fibers in the fashion industry, home furnishings, and industrial applications, is contributing to the market growth.
In 2024, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 40%. The region boasts some of the world's most prominent textile and packaging industries, both of which are among the key end-users of ethylene glycol, specifically for the manufacturing of PET and polyester fibers. Other countries like China, India, South Korea, and Japan have undergone swift industrialization and urbanization, leading to high demand for ethylene glycol-based products in industries such as automotive, construction, and consumer goods. China leads the production and consumption of ethylene glycol, backed by an established petrochemical infrastructure and emerging export operations. Moreover, growth in disposable income and shifting lifestyles are driving demand for packaged clothing and drinks, further stimulating market expansion. Asia Pacific's robust manufacturing base and affordability make it a pivotal position in the world supply chain for ethylene glycol.
North America Ethylene Glycol Market Analysis
North America's ethylene glycol market is characterized by a well-established industrial sector and advanced technological infrastructure. Furthermore, the region's demand for ethylene glycol is primarily driven by its robust automotive, textile, and plastic industries. Additionally, the presence of a mature pharmaceutical industry in the region, creating a steady demand for ethylene glycol in medical applications, is favoring the market growth.
The region also benefits from significant investments in research and development (R&D), enhancing production efficiency and expanding application areas. For instance, Dow Inc. unveiled a new bio-based ethylene glycol production facility in Texas, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30%. Moreover, stringent environmental regulations are pushing the adoption of bio-based ethylene glycol, propelling the market growth in North America.
United States Ethylene Glycol Market Analysis
The ethylene glycol market expansion relies heavily on two primary factors from continuous crude oil production along with growing petrochemical industry needs. Industry data shows that U.S. crude oil production reached its highest levels at 13.3 million b/d during December 2023, and this boosts ethylene glycol demand along with other petrochemical products. Scattered throughout plastics and rubber manufacturing sectors ethylene glycol shipments exceeded USD 24.4 billion and then ascended to USD 24.9 billion in 2023. The steady growth of plastic manufacturing drives demand for ethylene glycol because it serves as a fundamental ingredient in polyester fibers and PET plastics production. The market expands intensively as environmental legislation and green consumer preferences drive sustainable bio-based ethylene glycol development that brings rapid market growth. Market expansion is supported by technological developments and the growing applications of PET plastics along with automotive and textile and medical sectors.
Europe Ethylene Glycol Market Analysis
There are several key drivers of the growth of the ethylene glycol market in Europe. European plastics production stood at 57.2 million tons in 2021, as reported by Plastics Europe, with ethylene glycol playing a critical role in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics used in various applications, such as packaging, textiles, and consumer goods. The European textile industry, led by Germany, Spain, France, Italy, and Portugal, accounts for more than one-fifth of the global textile market. The production of polyester, which utilizes ethylene glycol, plays a significant role in this industry's growth. In addition, according to reports, the adoption of electric vehicles in Europe has grown by more than 65% year-on-year to 2.3 million units in 2021, which is having a positive impact on the ethylene glycol market. Ethylene glycol is used in electric vehicle battery cooling systems, increasing demand in the automotive industry. Generally, industrial growth, sustainable practices, and changes in consumer needs are driving the ethylene glycol market in Europe.
Asia Pacific Ethylene Glycol Market Analysis
The Asia Pacific market for ethylene glycol is growing strongly on the back of numerous factors in diverse industries. As per the ethylene glycol market research report, the market growth is mainly driven by the high levels of industrialization and urbanization in the region, particularly within the automotive, textile, and plastics industries. Electric vehicle demand is increasingly driving the sale of ethylene glycol since the Indian government aimed at 2030 to secure 30% new vehicle sales to be an electric vehicle in the automotive field, as per reports. In addition, Asia-Pacific countries, where the textile companies, such as China, India, and Bangladesh are mainly located; therefore, huge polyester and synthetic fabric production goes through ethylene glycol consumptions. The region also has an ever-growing plastics industry, especially the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) used in packaging, with significant demand for this commodity in food and beverages. Further, disposable income, combined with consumer awareness about hygiene, has increased demand for ethylene glycol in personal care products and cleaning agents, thus further fueling market growth.
Latin America Ethylene Glycol Market Analysis
The Latin America (LAC) ethylene glycol market experiences growth because agriculture stands as a prime economic driver throughout the region. The 2020 World Bank report demonstrates that agriculture generates 5-18% of GDP in 20 LAC countries which drives ethylene glycol consumption for agricultural chemicals including pesticides and fertilizers. Market growth receives additional momentum from packaging and textile industries which maintain high demand for plastics and synthetic fibers. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) production begins with ethylene glycol as its fundamental starting material for making packaging products that mainly serve food and beverage consumption while experiencing growing demand from rising packaged food markets. The automotive sector in Brazil and Mexico serves as a primary market driver because ethylene glycol functions as antifreeze and coolant material. The demand for ethylene glycol in battery cooling applications receives additional support from rising electric vehicle production investments that result from government environmental initiatives and incentives.
Middle East and Africa Ethylene Glycol Market Analysis
The Middle East and Africa ethylene glycol market is significantly influenced by the region's dominance in the global energy landscape. With five of the world's top 10 oil producers and three of the top 20 gas producers, the region's significant energy exports offer a strong foundation for sustained industrial growth. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), in 2022, MEA region holds over 40 percent of global exports in oil which, in return, has expanded demand for ethylene glycol in petrochemical industries. Market growth was supported by significant use of this chemical in various applications such as antifreeze and lubricant by the petroleum and gas industry. In addition, the growth in plastic, textiles, and automobiles is creating huge demand for ethylene glycol from the manufacturing industry, especially from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Increasing electric vehicles production and a new emphasis on sustainable living are increasing demand for ethylene glycol for battery cooling systems and other green products.
Major players are focusing on expanding their production capacity to meet the global demand for ethylene glycol. It involves upgrading existing facilities and building new plants, especially in regions with high demand. Additionally, they are focusing on developing advanced production technologies to increase yield and efficiency. Additionally, top ethylene glycol manufacturers are forming partnerships, joint ventures, and collaborations with other companies and organizations to exchange technological expertise, broaden market reach, and lower operational costs. According to the ethylene glycol market forecast, the market is expected to witness significant growth due to strategic partnerships between companies and research institutions to explore new production methods and applications.