Photocatalyst Market

Photocatalyst Market Size and Share:

The global photocatalyst market size was valued at USD 2.7 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 5.0 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.8% during 2025-2033. Asia-Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 35.8% in 2024. The rising demand for low volatile organic compounds (VOC) coatings is propelling the overall market.

The rising pollution levels drive demand for photocatalytic air and water purification systems that decompose harmful pollutants, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and bacteria. Buildings, automotive surfaces, and solar panels benefit from low-maintenance, self-cleaning coatings using titanium dioxide (TiO₂)-based photocatalysts. The implementation of strict environmental regulations encourages builders and industrial operators to select eco-friendly photocatalytic coatings and treatment solutions for their operations. Doping and nanotechnology innovations have boosted sunlight efficiency which expands uses in energy conversion and green hydrogen production. The requirements for clean environments throughout healthcare facilities and food-serving and public areas drive the market acceptance of antibacterial and antiviral photocatalytic coatings. The factors, collectively, are creating the photocatalyst market outlook across the globe.

The EPA’s air and water quality standards drive demand for photocatalytic air purifiers, wastewater treatment systems, and VOC-reducing coatings. For instance, in September 2024, researchers from the University of Missouri (U.S.) and Zhejiang Ocean University (China) accomplished a significant breakthrough. An inventive Au/MIL-101(Fe)/BiOBr photocatalyst created to address the simultaneous decontamination of water contaminants is presented in their research, which was published in the journal eScience. The rising adoption of self-cleaning glass, solar panels, and energy-efficient construction materials supports the demand for photocatalytic coatings in smart cities and infrastructure projects. The U.S. research institutions and companies are investing in nanostructured TiO₂-based photocatalysts to enhance efficiency under natural light, expanding market applications. The need for antimicrobial and antiviral coatings in hospitals, public spaces, and food processing industries is fueling the global photocatalyst market growth.

Photocatalyst Market Trends:

Extensive R&D Activities

Academic institutions, governments, and private companies are dedicating substantial resources to optimize existing ones, explore new photocatalyst materials, and expand their applications. This represents one of the key photocatalyst market trends. Additionally, collaborative efforts are leading to significant breakthroughs in nanotechnology, which is positively influencing the photocatalyst market outlook. The global nanotechnology market size reached USD 11.4 Billion in 2024. For instance, in February 2024, a professor from the Department of Chemistry at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) led a research project that aims to transform organic synthesis. His group developed a new heterogeneous copper photocatalyst that effectively forms cyclobutane rings, an essential structural component of a wide range of bioactive compounds.

Expanding Industrial Applications

The rising inclination towards industrial applications is propelled by the need for eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions that can improve operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Moreover, the ability of this material to enhance efficiency and sustainability in various processes is also creating a positive impact on the market. In February 2024, Alfa Chemistry added three types of photochemistry-related materials to its diverse product portfolio: photocatalysts, photosensitizers, and quantum dots. They bring vast possibilities for future studies in both chemistry and biology, which is escalating the photocatalyst market demand.

Rising Usage in Consumer Products

The growing integration of advanced technologies into everyday items to enhance functionality and user benefits is stimulating the market. Photocatalysts are widely being incorporated into anti-bacterial coatings, self-cleaning surfaces, and anti-fogging materials. The global antimicrobial coatings market size reached USD 5.6 Billion in 2024. This trend is driven by consumer demand for hygienic, low-maintenance, and environmentally friendly products. In March 2024, Samsung Electronics created a new model in its premium air purifier line that features a unique photocatalyst filter that reduces the need for periodic filter replacements.

Photocatalyst Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global photocatalyst market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, form, and application.

Analysis by Type:

• Titanium Dioxide
• Zinc Oxide
• Others

Titanium dioxide stands as the largest type in 2024, holding around 88.9% of the market. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) dominates the photocatalyst market because it exhibits high efficiency combined with chemical stability and strong oxidative properties. The anatase form of TiO₂ demonstrates a wide bandgap of 3.2 eV which allows it to function effectively with UV light for self-cleaning surfaces and air purification systems and water treatment and antibacterial coatings. The abundance of TiO₂ along with its affordability combined with nontoxicity and environmental safety makes it the better choice than zinc oxide and cadmium sulfide photocatalysts. The market adoption of TiO₂ for solar energy conversion and hydrogen production has strengthened due to recent advances in doping and nanostructuring that enhance its visible light response.

 Analysis by Form:

• Powder
• Fines
• Sponge
• Bars/Blocks
• Granules
• Ingots

Powder leads the market with around 28.7% of the photocatalyst market share in 2024. Powder form dominates the photocatalyst market because it provides high surface area alongside superior reactivity and easy dispersal capabilities for water treatment, air purification and self-cleaning coatings applications. When used as powders titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO) display better light absorption and catalytic performance than thin film or surface coatings. The broad use of powder photocatalysts in suspensions, coatings and composite materials makes them the top selection for industrial and environmental applications. Additionally, powder-based photocatalysts are cost-effective, scalable for mass production, and allow modifications like doping and nanostructuring, further improving performance in visible-light-driven reactions and energy conversion processes.

Analysis by Application:

• Self-Cleaning
• Air Purification
• Water Treatment
• Anti-Fogging
• Others

Self-cleaning leads the market with around 40.0% of market share in 2024. Self-cleaning applications hold the largest share of the market because construction enterprises, automotive manufacturers and textile producers require them. When titanium dioxide (TiO₂) photocatalysts receive UV or visible light they transform organic pollutants, dirt and microbes into smaller components, thus cutting maintenance expenses and extending material life. Self-cleaning coatings find extensive applications in glass together with building facades, solar panels and paints because they offer anti-fogging and antibacterial and air-purifying properties. The market expands due to rising smart city implementations, green building and sustainable infrastructure deployments. Additionally, regulatory policies promoting eco-friendly materials boost the market, making self-cleaning surfaces a dominant application in the photocatalyst industry.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

In 2024, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 35.8%. Asia-Pacific leads the global photocatalyst market, driven by rapid urbanization and industrial growth in key countries like China, India, and Japan. According to the World Bank, East Asia and the Pacific is the most rapidly urbanizing region, with an annual urbanization rate of 3%. This rapid urban growth intensifies the need for effective air and water purification solutions, where photocatalysts play a vital role. China’s environmental initiatives, such as the "Blue Sky Protection Campaign," and India’s emphasis on clean water infrastructure bolster market demand. Japan remains a frontrunner in photocatalyst innovation, with widespread application in self-cleaning and anti-bacterial materials for construction and public spaces. The growing automotive and solar energy sectors in emerging economies also create significant opportunities for photocatalytic technologies, further cementing the region’s leadership in this market.

Key Regional Takeaways:

North America Photocatalyst Market Analysis

Enforced air and water pollution controls by the EPA drive the North American photocatalyst market growth because industries demand photocatalytic air purifiers and VOC-reducing coatings and wastewater treatment systems. The drive for energy-effective and minimal-maintenance construction leads to the adoption of self-cleaning glass and paints along with photocatalyst-coated solar panels to decrease both energy usage and environmental pollutants. The U.S. and Canadian research institutions along with companies dedicate funding to improve TiO₂-based doped and nanostructured materials for natural light operations to boost their application in water treatment and air purification systems. Market growth occurs because hospitals along with schools, food processing establishments and public areas require antimicrobial and antiviral coatings. The research on photocatalytic water splitting receives support through the development of solar fuel generation and green hydrogen production which creates new possibilities for renewable energy applications.

United States Photocatalyst Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States accounted for the largest market share of over 84.80% in North America. The U.S. photocatalyst market is expanding rapidly, driven by heightened environmental awareness, stringent regulations, and significant investments in clean energy. According to Rhodium Group, a record USD 71 Billion was invested in U.S. clean energy and transportation in the third quarter of 2024, reflecting a 12% year-over-year increase and a 2% rise from Q2 2024. These investments emphasize the country’s commitment to sustainable innovation, creating growth opportunities for photocatalysts in diverse applications. The demand for advanced air and water purification systems is rising due to growing concerns about pollution and public health. Post-COVID-19, there has been a heightened focus on indoor air quality, leading to the adoption of photocatalyst coatings in residential, commercial, and healthcare spaces. Similarly, the push for sustainable construction has increased the use of photocatalyst-integrated building materials that offer self-cleaning, anti-bacterial, and anti-fogging properties, aligning with green building initiatives. Urbanization and industrialization further drive the need for efficient wastewater treatment solutions, where photocatalysts provide an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative. Additionally, the integration of photocatalytic technology in solar energy systems supports the nation’s renewable energy goals, making it an integral part of the clean energy transition and environmental remediation efforts.

Europe Photocatalyst Market Analysis

The European photocatalyst market is growing rapidly, supported by robust regulatory frameworks and a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. The European Commission’s decision to invest EUR 180 Million (USD 188.67 Million) in cutting-edge digital technologies and research underscores the region’s focus on advancing eco-friendly solutions and technological development. These investments create significant opportunities for photocatalysts across various sectors. Europe’s stringent environmental policies, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality, have accelerated the adoption of photocatalytic technologies in air purification, water treatment, and sustainable construction. The region’s construction industry is increasingly utilizing photocatalyst-coated materials with self-cleaning, anti-bacterial, and pollution-reducing properties to meet green building standards. The automotive sector, a key industry in Europe, is also a major contributor to the photocatalyst market. Photocatalytic solutions are widely adopted for air-purifying systems and anti-fogging applications, enhancing both sustainability and performance. Additionally, heightened awareness of health and hygiene, especially following the pandemic, has driven demand for photocatalyst-based products in public spaces, healthcare facilities, and consumer goods. Advancements in nanotechnology and material sciences further enhance the performance and efficiency of photocatalysts, positioning Europe as a leader in the adoption of innovative, sustainable technologies that align with its environmental goals. 

Latin America Photocatalyst Market Analysis

Latin America’s photocatalyst market is supported by increasing urbanization, which, according to research, has reached approximately 80%, surpassing most other regions. This rapid urban expansion has amplified the demand for clean water and sustainable construction practices. Photocatalytic solutions are being adopted to address water scarcity, particularly in countries like Brazil and Mexico, where urban centers are experiencing growing water needs. Additionally, the region's expanding construction industry integrates photocatalyst-coated materials to meet sustainability goals and improve building efficiency. Government support for eco-friendly technologies further drives the adoption of photocatalytic systems in environmental remediation and solar energy applications.

Middle East and Africa Photocatalyst Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa photocatalyst market is bolstered by rising urbanization, with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) already 64% urbanized, as noted by the World Bank. This high urban concentration heightens the need for sustainable solutions to address air and water quality challenges, particularly in densely populated and arid regions. Investments in water treatment facilities across Gulf countries drive demand for photocatalytic systems to combat water scarcity. Additionally, the region's focus on smart city projects, such as Neom, accelerates the adoption of advanced building materials with self-cleaning and air-purifying properties, further supporting market growth.

Competitive Landscape:

The photocatalyst market experiences rising competition because of technological developments and environmental regulatory requirements. Major players in the market consist of TOTO Ltd., Showa Denko K.K., BASF SE and Evonik Industries AG alongside Kronos Worldwide Inc. These companies emphasize titanium dioxide (TiO₂), zinc oxide (ZnO) and other metal-based photocatalysts. The market is led by Japanese companies TOTO Ltd. and Showa Denko K.K. who excel in developing self-cleaning coatings and air purification solutions. Evonik Industries and BASF SE leverage nanotechnology for high-performance photocatalysts in water treatment and hydrogen production. Market competition intensifies as startups and research institutions commercialize visible-light photocatalysts to enhance efficiency. Strategic collaborations, patents, and eco-friendly product innovations define future growth and differentiation in this sector.

The report has also analysed the competitive landscape of the market with some of the key players being:

• Daicel Corporation
• Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha Ltd
• Japan Photocatalyst Center Co. Ltd.
• Kaltech Co. Ltd.
• Nanoptek Corporation
• Sakai Chemical Industry Co Ltd
• Showa Denko K. K.
• Souma Co. Ltd.
• Tayca Corporation
• The Chemours Company
• Toto Ltd.
• Tronox Limited

Latest News and Developments:

• January 2025: Sparc Technologies Limited announced that its joint venture, Sparc Hydrogen, with Fortescue and the University of Adelaide, has received its first patent for a photocatalytic water splitting reactor technology in Morocco. This achievement strengthens Sparc Hydrogen’s intellectual property portfolio and positions the company in the growing field of green hydrogen production, utilizing concentrated solar energy to enhance efficiency and scalability.
• March 2024: Samsung Electronics has introduced a new photocatalytic air filter technology that efficiently captures particulate matter (PM) and decomposes Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). The filter is designed to last for 20 years with simple water washing, as detailed in a study published in Nature Communications on February 15, UK time.
• March 2024: Researchers from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) have developed a highly efficient photocatalyst capable of converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable products such as ethene and ethylene, which are used as fuel gases. The Department of Science and Technology emphasizes the importance of utilizing solar energy for fuel production, highlighting the need for effective photocatalysts to convert solar energy into sustainable fuel.
• February 2024: Alfa Chemistry has expanded its product portfolio with the introduction of three new photochemistry-related materials: photosensitizers, photocatalysts, and quantum dots. Photochemistry, which studies chemical reactions under light influence, intersects with various fields including physics, chemistry, materials science, biology, and medicine.
• February 2024: Professor Jian He from the University of Hong Kong's Department of Chemistry has led a groundbreaking research initiative to advance organic synthesis. His team created a unique heterogeneous copper photocatalyst that allows for the effective production of cyclobutane rings, a key structural component in bioactive molecules found in pharmaceuticals and natural products. This development, recently published in Nature Catalysis, offers greater control over the synthesis of these important compounds.

Photocatalyst Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the photocatalyst market from 2019-2033.
• The photocatalyst market research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the photocatalyst industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.