Phosphorus Trichloride Market Analysis

Application (Agrochemicals, Chemical Intermediates, Gasoline Additives, Plasticizers, Pharmaceuticals, Others)

Agrochemicals segment is likely to dominate phosphorus trichloride market share of over 46.03% by 2037. A key driver of the segment is the increasing application of phosphorus trichloride in the agrochemicals industry as an intermediate in the production of organophosphorus pesticides and herbicides.

The increasing demand for effective crop protection solutions drives demand for pesticides. Additionally, the rise in global food demand is positioned to drive demand for pesticide production to be used in precision farming practices. For instance, as per a September 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture indicated that the production of world crop calories increased by 47% from 2011 to 2050. The increased demand can benefit the application of phosphorus trichloride in agrochemicals, as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various organophosphorus compounds.

The chemical intermediates segment of the phosphorus trichloride market is positioned to hold a significant revenue share during the forecast period. The segment’s growth is due to the rising demand for versatile intermediates that support advancements in polymers, and high-performance materials. The applications span from producing plasticizers and solvents to manufacturing surfactants and specialty chemicals.

Additionally, the rising demand for flexible packaging is poised to drive demand for an increase in the production of plasticizers, which in turn boosts demand for phosphorus trichloride as a chemical intermediate. For instance, in December 2024, Dow completed a USD 150 million sale of flexible packaging adhesives business to Arkema. The market developments can lead to an increase in demand for raw materials and intermediates, including phosphorus trichloride-based compounds.

Gasoline additives are an emerging segment of the phosphorus trichloride market. Gasoline additives serve as a precursor in manufacturing additives that improve combustion efficiency expanding the scope of application. Additionally, advancements in additive formulations can continue to create steady opportunities for phosphorus trichloride application. Companies are investing in the fuel additives segment and the increasing production is expected to drive demand for phosphorus trichloride as an intermediate for synthesis of antioxidants that can improve gasoline performance.

For instance, in May 2024, Braskem expanded its fuel additive business portfolio to serve the premium automotive fuels phosphorus trichloride market worldwide. The expansion holds the potential to trigger demand for raw materials and intermediates to support its growth benefiting the phosphorus trichloride sector.

Our in-depth analysis of the global phosphorus trichloride market includes the following segments: