1 Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Insight Analysis
The global Raney Nickel Catalyst market size was valued at USD 461.83 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 4.6% from 2024 to 2033.
Raney nickel is a solid catalyst composed of fine grains of nickel aluminum alloy used in many industrial processes. Raney nickel is used as a heterogeneous catalyst in various organic syntheses, most commonly in hydrogenation reactions.
Figure Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
Broad downstream market demand: Raney nickel catalysts are widely used in many downstream fields. In organic synthesis, it is often used in various catalytic hydrogenation reactions, such as hydrogenation of olefins, alkynes, dienes, aromatics and unsaturated structural polymer compounds, due to its high catalytic activity, strong adsorption of hydrogen and thermal stability.
In the production of sorbitol, glucose is hydrogenated with Raney nickel as a catalyst to prepare sorbitol, which is used as a sweetener in products such as toothpaste and mouthwash, reflecting its important application in the food industry. In addition, it can also be used for a variety of organic reactions such as isomerization, deoxygenation, and dehydration. The broad demand of the downstream market has driven the growth of the Raney nickel catalyst industry.
Cost and performance advantages: Compared with alternative catalysts made of precious metals such as platinum and palladium, Raney nickel catalysts have low costs, which makes them more cost-effective in large-scale industrial production. By adjusting the parameters of the digestion process, its catalytic performance can be changed. Adding a small amount of cheap metals such as chromium, iron, copper or molybdenum can further fine-tune the activity and selectivity and determine the addition position of hydrogen in the molecule. This performance adjustability allows it to better meet different industrial needs, thereby gaining an advantage in market competition and promoting market growth.
Safety risk issues: Raney nickel catalysts have safety hazards. Exposure to air can irritate the respiratory tract. Inhalation may damage the nasal cavity and lungs, leading to pulmonary fibrosis. Ingestion can cause convulsions and intestinal disorders, and may also cause eye and skin allergies. In addition, activated Raney nickel produces flammable hydrogen byproducts. These safety risks require strict safety measures in the production process, increase production costs and management difficulties, and once a safety accident occurs, it will affect the production of enterprises and hinder the development of the industry.
Raw material price fluctuations: Aluminum and nickel are the main raw materials for Raney nickel catalysts, and their supply and price fluctuations have a greater impact on the industry. When raw material prices rise, if companies cannot transfer cost pressure to downstream or reduce costs through technological innovation, and fail to do a good job of inventory management when prices fall, it will affect the operating benefits of the company. In recent years, the price of raw materials has fluctuated significantly, bringing uncertainty and negative impact to the development of the industry.
Policy supervision and economic environment impact: Countries have formulated strict policies and regulations on the production, operation and use of Raney nickel catalysts, such as China’s “Regulations on the Safety Management of Hazardous Chemicals”. Enterprises must meet the corresponding standards, which increases the compliance costs of enterprises. Factors such as the global economic slowdown, inflation and geopolitical conflicts have led to unstable market demand, especially the weakening demand for polymers, which has affected the market demand for Raney nickel catalysts in related fields and restricted the development of the industry.
3 Technological Innovations in the Raney Nickel Catalyst Market
Preparation technology optimization: The traditional preparation method of Raney nickel catalyst includes three steps: alloy preparation, crushing and leaching. The metal nickel and aluminum are mixed and melted at high temperature to form an alloy, and then the product is obtained by processing. When producing nickel-aluminum alloys, the ratio of nickel and aluminum will affect the porous structure and catalytic performance of the final product.
At present, the industry is committed to optimizing the preparation technology and accurately controlling the ratio of alloy components to obtain a more ideal catalyst structure and performance. By improving the process, the activity, selectivity and stability of the catalyst can be improved to meet the needs of different industrial reactions and enhance the competitiveness of the product in the market.
Performance improvement innovation: Researchers improve the performance of Raney nickel catalysts by adding specific additives. Adding a small amount of metals such as chromium, iron, copper or molybdenum can fine-tune the activity and selectivity of the catalyst so that it can be more accurately applied to specific organic reactions. This innovation not only broadens the application range of Raney nickel catalysts, but also improves their efficiency in complex organic synthesis reactions, promotes the technological upgrading of related industries, and provides technical support for market growth.
4 Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Size by Type
The Activated type of Raney Nickel Catalyst is projected to contribute significantly to the market, though it represents a smaller portion compared to the Non-Activated type. In 2024, the market value for Activated catalysts is forecasted at approximately $27.45 million. This type of catalyst, characterized by its high activity due to the removal of aluminum from the nickel-aluminum alloy, is primarily used in laboratories and specific industrial applications where high catalytic activity is required. Despite its niche application, the Activated catalyst holds a crucial role in processes that demand precise control and high efficiency.
Conversely, the Non-Activated Raney Nickel Catalyst dominates the market in terms of both revenue and volume. In 2024, this type is expected to generate a market value of about $434.37 million. Non-Activated catalysts retain the aluminum in the alloy structure, which results in a less active but more stable catalyst suitable for a broader range of industrial applications. These catalysts are preferred in processes that require robustness against poisoning and where the reaction conditions are less stringent. The Non-Activated catalysts find extensive use in refining operations, polymerization processes, and other chemical transformations where cost-effectiveness and reliability are paramount.
The market share forecast for 2024 reveals that the Non-Activated type will account for approximately 94.06% of the total market value, while the Activated type will hold a share of about 5.94%. This disparity in market shares underscores the preference for Non-Activated catalysts in industrial applications due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. However, the Activated catalysts, though holding a smaller market share, are essential for specific applications where high catalytic activity is indispensable.
Table Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Size and Share by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Activated | 27.45 | 5.94% |
Non-Activated | 434.37 | 94.06% |
5 Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Size by Application
Refining operations held a significant position in the market. In terms of revenue, it reached 206.54 million USD in 2024. This accounted for a market share of 44.72%. Refining operations often rely on Raney nickel catalysts due to their unique catalytic properties, which are essential for processes such as hydrogenation and isomerization in the refining industry. The consistent demand from refineries for efficient catalysts to improve product quality and yield has contributed to this substantial revenue and market share.
Polymerization processes were another major application area. In 2024, the market revenue for Raney nickel catalysts in polymerization processes was 236.03 million USD, taking up a market share of 51.11%. Raney nickel catalysts play a vital role in polymerization reactions, enabling the formation of polymers with specific properties. Industries such as plastics and rubber manufacturing, which are highly dependent on polymerization processes, drive the demand for these catalysts. The growth in the polymer industry, especially in emerging economies where infrastructure development and consumer goods production are on the rise, has further boosted the market for Raney nickel catalysts in polymerization processes.
Table Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Size and Share by Application in 2024
Application | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Refining Operations | 206.54 | 44.72% |
Polymerization Processes | 236.03 | 51.11% |
Others | 19.26 | 4.17% |
6 Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Size by Region
North America is anticipated to be a substantial market for Raney Nickel Catalysts, with a projected market value of $142.99 million in 2024. This region has a strong industrial base and a high demand for petrochemicals and Fine chemicals, driving the need for efficient catalysts. The market share for North America in 2024 is estimated at 30.96%, indicating its significant contribution to the global market. The region’s focus on technological advancements and environmental regulations also influences the demand for Raney Nickel Catalysts, pushing towards more sustainable and efficient catalytic processes.
Europe follows closely with a projected market value of $112.06 million in 2024. The market share for Europe is slightly lower at 24.26%, reflecting a mature market with stable demand. Europe’s stringent environmental policies and the region’s commitment to green technologies are likely to influence the type and quality of catalysts required, potentially increasing the demand for Raney Nickel Catalysts in specific applications such as pollution control and renewable energy production.
The Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the global Raney Nickel Catalyst market in 2024, with a projected market value of $159.53 million. This region’s market share is 34.54%, underscoring its rapid industrial growth and increasing demand for chemicals in various sectors including textiles, electronics, and automotive. The region’s focus on expanding its manufacturing capabilities and improving production efficiencies is driving the demand for high-performance catalysts like Raney Nickel.
Latin America is projected to have a market value of $27.34 million in 2024, with a market share of 5.92%. The region’s growth is driven by emerging economies and increasing investments in industrial sectors. The demand for Raney Nickel Catalysts in Latin America is expected to rise as these countries develop their chemical and petrochemical industries, seeking to diversify their economies and reduce reliance on imports.
The Middle East and Africa region, though smaller in comparison, is projected to have a market value of $19.90 million in 2024, holding a market share of 4.31%. The region’s focus on diversifying its economy away from oil and gas and investing in downstream industries is expected to boost the demand for catalysts. Additionally, the push for industrialization and the development of petrochemical complexes in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are likely to contribute to the growth of the Raney Nickel Catalyst market.
Figure Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2024
7 Global Raney Nickel Catalyst Market Analysis by Major Players
W. R. Grace and Company
Company Profile: Established in 1854 and headquartered in the USA, W. R. Grace and Company operates worldwide.
Business Overview: The company features two industry-leading business units—Catalyst Technologies and Materials Technology—providing innovative products, technologies, and services. W. R. Grace and Company’s global polyolefin catalyst and process technology licensing business has been a global leader for the past decade.
Product Offered: W. R. Grace and Company offers Grace’s RANEY® brand of nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and chromium (Cr) catalysts, which are among the most efficient catalysts available for the hydrogenation process. These catalysts are used in a range of hydrogenation reactions and are widely used in reductive alkylations, reductive animations, and ammonolysis of alcohols.
2023 Financial Summary: In 2023, W. R. Grace and Company achieved sales of 1531.1 tons, with a price of 47.1 thousand USD per ton, generating a revenue of 72.15 million USD, and a gross profit of 24.58 million USD, reflecting a gross margin of 34.06%.
Evonik
Company Profile: Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Germany, Evonik operates in over 100 countries globally.
Business Overview: Evonik is one of the world’s leading specialty chemical companies. The company offers a broad spectrum of products through a network of expertise in chemistry, biotechnology, physics, materials science, and other natural sciences.
Product Offered: Evonik provides Metalyst® MC 111 DSA, an activated nickel powder catalyst for slurry processes embedded in distearylamine (DSA). This versatile catalyst is suitable for a range of applications, predominantly hydrogenation reactions.
2023 Financial Summary: Evonik reported sales of 1702.5 tons in 2023, with a price of 37.5 thousand USD per ton, resulting in revenue of 63.92 million USD, and a gross profit of 21.89 million USD, with a gross margin of 34.24%.
Johnson Matthey
Company Profile: Johnson Matthey, established in 1817, is headquartered in the U.K. and operates mainly in Europe, North America, and the Asia Pacific.
Business Overview: Johnson Matthey is a British multinational specialty chemicals and sustainable technology company. As a global leader in sustainable technologies, Johnson Matthey applies cutting-edge science to create solutions with clients, playing a central role in transport, energy, chemical production, and the transformations needed to create a circular economy.
Product Offered: Johnson Matthey offers SPONGE METAL™ catalysts, widely used in the slurry-bed hydrogenation of dextrose to sorbitol. These catalysts are prepared from nickel and aluminum alloys and are fully active when shipped, requiring no preactivation.
2023 Financial Summary: Johnson Matthey achieved sales of 1266.7 tons in 2023, with a price of 40.4 thousand USD per ton, leading to revenue of 51.14 million USD, and a gross profit of 18.24 million USD, indicating a gross margin of 35.66%.