세계의 휘발성 부식 억제제 시장 규모는 2024년에 7,076억 3,000만 달러로 평가되었고, 예측 기간 중 CAGR 4.86%로 성장할 전망이며, 2030년에는 9,492억 달러에 달할 것으로 예측되고 있습니다.
| 시장 개요 | |
|---|---|
| 예측 기간 | 2026-2030년 |
| 시장 규모(2024년) | 7,076억 3,000만 달러 |
| 시장 규모(2030년) | 9,492억 달러 |
| CAGR(2025-2030년) | 4.86% |
| 급성장 부문 | 폴리비닐알코올 |
| 최대 시장 | 북미 |
휘발성 부식 억제제(VCI) 시장이란 보호 증기를 방출하여 금속 제품의 부식을 방지하는 특수한 화학 화합물의 생산, 유통, 용도에 초점을 맞춘 세계의 산업을 말합니다. 이러한 증기는 금속 표면에 눈에 보이지 않는 얇은 분자층을 형성하여 수분, 산소 및 기타 부식성 요소에 의한 손상을 방지하는 장벽을 만듭니다. VCI 제품은 종이, 필름, 폼, 파우더, 오일, 코팅제 등 다양한 형태로 널리 사용되고 있으며 자동차, 항공우주, 전자제품, 금속가공 및 중기계 및 방위 등의 산업에서 일반적으로 응용되고 있습니다.
주요 시장 성장 촉진요인
세계 산업 및 제조 부문 확대
자동차, 항공우주, 일렉트로닉스, 금속 가공 등의 산업에서는 금속부품의 수명과 신뢰성을 확보하기 위한 부식 방지 솔루션에 대한 의존도가 높아지고 있기 때문에 세계 산업 및 제조 부문의 급속한 확대가 휘발성 부식 억제제 시장을 크게 견인하고 있습니다. 휘발성 부식 억제제(VCI)는 보호층을 형성하는 기상 화합물을 방출하는 것으로, 보관중 및 수송 중 등의 가혹한 환경하에서 금속 표면을 보호하는 능력을 가지기 위해, 널리 채용되고 있습니다.
특히 중국과 인도와 같은 신흥 경제국에서의 제조 활동의 급증은 중요한 기계, 공구, 부품을 녹이나 부식으로부터 보호하는 VCI 수요를 부추기고 있습니다. 예를 들어, 자동차 산업은 습기나 염분에 노출되는 차체 하부 부품이나 엔진 부품에 VCI를 필요로 하고, 전자 기기 제조업체는 섬세한 회로를 보호하기 위해 VCI를 사용하고 있습니다. 세계 무역과 물류의 증가는 장거리 운송 중인 금속 제품을 보호하기 위한 필름이나 봉투와 같은 VCI 기반 패키징의 필요성을 더욱 높이고 있습니다.
게다가 해양 시추 및 석유화학과 같은 부식성 환경에서 조업하는 산업에서는 비용 효율적인 유지관리 솔루션이 요구되고 있어 VCI의 채용이 진행되고 있습니다. 개발도상국 정부는 산업 인프라에 많은 투자를 하고 있으며 설비 효율을 유지하고 다운타임을 줄이기 위한 부식 억제제에 대한 왕성한 수요를 창출하고 있습니다.
종이, 필름, 액체 등의 형태로 이용할 수 있는 VCI의 범용성에 의해 중기로부터 정밀 기기까지 다양한 용도에 접목할 수 있습니다. 또한, 안전성이나 운전 성능을 손상시키는 부식에 의한 경제적 손실을 최소한으로 억제하는 것을 목표로 하는 산업계가, 자산의 수명을 연장하는 것에 점점 중점을 두게 되고 있는 것도, 이 원동력을 뒷받침하고 있습니다.
유엔공업개발기관(UNIDO)의 보고에 따르면 세계의 제조 부가가치는 2018년 13조 8,000억 달러에서 2023년에는 14조 9,000억 달러로 증가하여 산업 활동의 활성화가 휘발성 부식 억제제 수요를 촉진하고 있습니다.
규제 준수 및 환경 제약
녹색 처방 및 생분해성 처방의 상승
Global Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors Market was valued at USD 707.63 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 949.20 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 4.86% during the forecast period.
| Market Overview | |
|---|---|
| Forecast Period | 2026-2030 |
| Market Size 2024 | USD 707.63 Billion |
| Market Size 2030 | USD 949.20 Billion |
| CAGR 2025-2030 | 4.86% |
| Fastest Growing Segment | Polyvinyl Alcohol |
| Largest Market | North America |
The Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors (VCI) market refers to the global industry focused on the production, distribution, and application of specialized chemical compounds that prevent corrosion in metal products by emitting protective vapors. These vapors form a thin, invisible molecular layer on the surface of metals, creating a barrier that prevents moisture, oxygen, and other corrosive elements from causing damage. VCI products are widely used in various forms such as paper, films, foams, powders, oils, and coatings, and are commonly applied in industries like automotive, aerospace, electronics, metal processing, heavy machinery, and defense.
Key Market Drivers.
Expansion of Global Industrial and Manufacturing Sectors
The rapid expansion of global industrial and manufacturing sectors significantly drives the Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors Market, as industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and metal processing increasingly rely on corrosion protection solutions to ensure the longevity and reliability of metal components. Volatile corrosion inhibitors (VCIs) are widely adopted for their ability to protect metal surfaces in harsh environments, such as during storage or transportation, by releasing vapor-phase compounds that form a protective layer.
The surge in manufacturing activities, particularly in emerging economies like China and India, fuels demand for VCIs to safeguard critical machinery, tools, and parts from rust and corrosion. For instance, the automotive industry requires VCIs for underbody components and engine parts exposed to moisture and salt, while electronics manufacturers use them to protect sensitive circuits. The rise in global trade and logistics further amplifies the need for VCI-based packaging, such as films and bags, to protect metal goods during long-distance shipping.
Additionally, the push for cost-effective maintenance solutions in industries operating in corrosive environments, such as offshore drilling and petrochemicals, enhances VCI adoption. Governments in developing nations are investing heavily in industrial infrastructure, creating a robust demand for corrosion inhibitors to maintain equipment efficiency and reduce downtime.
The versatility of VCIs, available in forms like paper, films, and liquids, allows their integration into diverse applications, from heavy equipment to precision instruments. This driver is further supported by the increasing focus on extending asset lifespans, as industries aim to minimize economic losses from corrosion, which can compromise safety and operational performance.
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) reported that global manufacturing value added grew from USD 13.8 trillion in 2018 to USD 14.9 trillion in 2023, reflecting increased industrial activity driving demand for volatile corrosion inhibitors.
Key Market Challenges
Regulatory Compliance and Environmental Constraints
The increasing global emphasis on environmental sustainability and health safety has created significant regulatory challenges for manufacturers operating in the volatile corrosion inhibitors market. VCI products, which are primarily chemical-based, are now being scrutinized under numerous international and national environmental standards.
Regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency in the United States, the European Chemicals Agency under the REACH regulation, and various ministries of environment in Asia Pacific have imposed stringent guidelines on the use, disposal, and composition of chemical inhibitors. These regulations are aimed at reducing the presence of volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and other harmful substances traditionally found in corrosion inhibitors.
Complying with such regulations often necessitates the reformulation of existing products, which involves extensive research and development investment and longer product approval cycles. This delays time-to-market and increases production costs. Moreover, certifications and eco-labels have become critical for market access, especially in environmentally conscious regions such as Europe and North America. Obtaining and maintaining these certifications requires rigorous testing, third-party audits, and documentation, which further adds to the operational complexity and financial burden for companies.
In addition, the shift toward environmentally friendly alternatives has intensified competition. Startups and niche players offering biodegradable or plant-based VCI products are gaining attention, particularly in regions with aggressive sustainability mandates. While these alternatives help companies align with regulatory expectations, they may not always match the performance characteristics of traditional VCI formulations, creating technical challenges in application. Thus, the market is caught in a transitional phase where companies must balance regulatory compliance with product efficacy and customer expectations. Overcoming these regulatory hurdles without compromising product quality or market share represents one of the most pressing challenges for the volatile corrosion inhibitors market.
Key Market Trends
Rise of Green and Biodegradable Formulations
Environmental sustainability has become a pivotal force driving transformation in the Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors market. Governments and consumers alike are increasingly demanding products that minimize ecological impact, which has led to a surge in eco-friendly VCI materials. In the packaging sector, manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to develop biodegradable and non-toxic inhibitors derived from plant-based resources. For example, several providers now offer VCI packaging made from compostable starch-based films, replacing petrochemical-derived polymers. These environmentally responsible alternatives not only comply with stringent regulations-such as the European Union's REACH and single-use plastics directives-but also meet evolving corporate sustainability targets.
The trend toward "green VCIs" is supported by market data. A recent analysis highlights how biodegradable and non-toxic formulations are gaining traction, enabling companies to differentiate their brand, retain conscientious customers, and foster brand loyalty. In addition, growth estimates underline the impact: eco-compliant VCI packaging is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 9.2% from 2023 to 2030, with Asia-Pacific leading due to tight emission standards in China and India. This transition also stimulates innovation in chemistry and production methodology, with firms exploring solvent-free coatings, water-based emulsions, and bio-based inhibitor extracts.
However, shifting from traditional chemistries to green alternatives presents technical challenges. Performance parity in corrosion protection, shelf life, and cost competitiveness must be achieved. Producers are tackling these issues through pilot trials, accelerated corrosion testing, and formulation optimization. Successful adoption of eco-friendly VCI products offers a dual benefit: improved environmental credentials and sustainable growth opportunities across regulated markets, making this trend indispensable to long-term market strategy.
In this report, the Global Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors Market.
Global Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report: