Ultrapure Water Purification Systems Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Reverse Osmosis, EDI and Ion Exchange), By Application (Electronics, Pharmaceuticals and Power) and Regional Forecast to 2032

Updated On: 29 April 2024

ULTRAPURE WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEMS MARKET REPORT OVERVIEW

global ultrapure water purification systems market size was USD 636.4 million in 2022 and market is projected to touch USD 952.1 million by 2029 at CAGR 5.8% during the forecast period.

Ultrapure water purification systems undergo a series of intricate steps to achieve the desired level of purity, typically involving pretreatment, primary treatment, and polishing. Utilizing techniques such as reverse osmosis, demineralization, activated carbon filtration, and exposure to ultraviolet light, these systems effectively eliminate a wide range of impurities, including organic and inorganic compounds, dissolved and particulate matter, as well as dissolved gases. The resulting water exhibits remarkable qualities, boasting a resistivity of 18.2 MΩ•cm, total organic carbon (TOC) levels lower than 10 parts per billion (ppb), and a bacterial count of less than 10 colony-forming units per millilitre (CFU/ml).

Industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and power generation heavily rely on ultrapure water for critical operations. Contaminants present in water sources can lead to substantial yield losses, pose contamination risks, and damage equipment. Consistent production of ultrapure water is essential to maintain process integrity and reliability in these sectors, safeguarding against detrimental effects associated with impurities. Consequently, ultrapure water plays a vital role in supporting the stringent standards and precise requirements of these high-tech and sensitive industries, where even the slightest deviation can have significant consequences.

COVID-19 Impact: Market fluctuates amidst the pandemic highlighting the importance of water treatment

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The UPW systems market experienced a mixed impact from the pandemic. Initially, supply chain disruptions occurred, but the crisis underscored the vital role of clean water for hygiene and healthcare standards, prompting increased focus on water treatment. Consequently, demand for UPW systems surged across industries. Particularly, the pharmaceutical sector saw substantial growth due to heightened healthcare expenditure and intensified vaccine and drug development activities. However, challenges emerged as well. Supply chain disruptions and movement restrictions hindered equipment delivery, while economic uncertainties led to cautious spending, affecting capital investments in UPW systems.

LATEST TRENDS

Focus on water recycling and zero-liquid discharge to drive the market

Industries are progressively directing investments towards water recycling and zero-liquid discharge technologies to mitigate water wastage and lessen environmental repercussions. In this endeavour, UPW systems hold pivotal significance by furnishing purified water essential for recycling and subsequent reuse. These systems serve as foundational components enabling the efficient implementation of water conservation strategies. By facilitating the purification of water to ultra-high levels of purity, UPW systems ensure that the recycled water meets stringent quality standards for various industrial processes. This approach not only minimizes the depletion of freshwater resources but also diminishes the discharge of wastewater into the environment. Thus, the adoption of UPW systems aligns with the broader objective of sustainable water management practices, promoting both ecological stewardship and operational efficiency within industrial settings.

ULTRAPURE WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEMS MARKET SEGMENTATION

• By Type

Based on type the global market can be categorized into Reverse Osmosis, EDI and Ion Exchange.

Reverse Osmosis: Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water purification process that employs a semipermeable membrane to remove ions, molecules, and larger particles from water. RO systems are commonly utilized to produce ultrapure water for industrial and laboratory applications. These systems can eliminate up to 99% of dissolved solids, including salts, minerals, and organic compounds. Typically, RO systems serve as a pretreatment step before further purification using other methods. They are known for their energy efficiency and minimal maintenance requirements, making them a popular choice for ultrapure water production.

Electrodeionization (EDI): Electrodeionization (EDI) is a water purification process that utilizes an electric field to extract ions from water. EDI systems employ ion-exchange membranes and resins to remove ions, yielding ultrapure water with a resistivity of up to 18.2 MΩ•cm. Widely used in the semiconductor, pharmaceutical, and power generation industries, EDI systems are energy-efficient and produce less waste compared to other purification methods.

Ion Exchange: Ion exchange is a water purification process employing ion-exchange resins to eliminate ions from water. Commonly employed to produce ultrapure water for industrial and laboratory applications, these systems can remove various ions, including cations and anions. Typically utilized as a polishing step following other purification methods like reverse osmosis or distillation, ion exchange systems are known for their ease of operation and maintenance. However, they can be costly to operate due to the expense of ion-exchange resins.

• By Application

Based on application the global market can be categorized into Electronics, Pharmaceuticals and Power.

Electronics: Ultrapure water systems are essential for the electronics industry, particularly in semiconductor manufacturing and the production of printed circuit boards. These systems ensure that water is free of contaminants, which can lead to yield loss, defects, and equipment damage. Ultrapure water is used for cleaning, rinsing, and etching processes in semiconductor manufacturing and for cleaning circuit boards during the assembly of electronic and microelectronic devices.

Pharmaceuticals: Ultrapure water systems are critical in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, where water is used in the production of medications, cosmetics, and personal care products, as well as in sterile solutions. Ultrapure water is also used to clean laboratory equipment to prevent pharmaceutical drugs from becoming contaminated during the manufacturing process.

Power: In power plants, ultrapure water is used in steam generation, cooling systems, and as feedwater for high-pressure boilers. The absence of minerals in ultrapure water prevents scaling and corrosion in boilers and turbines, increasing efficiency, reducing downtime, and extending the lifespan of expensive equipment.

DRIVING FACTORS

Advancements in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries are expected to drive the market

The healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors are experiencing substantial expansion due to factors such as an ageing demographic, heightened healthcare expenditures, and ongoing advancements in drug development and therapeutic approaches. This expansion leads to an elevated requirement for the global ultrapure water purification systems market growth across various domains including pharmaceutical manufacturing, laboratory investigations, and medical uses. This increased demand underscores the pivotal role of ultrapure water in ensuring the quality, safety, and effectiveness of pharmaceutical products, as well as in facilitating precise laboratory analyses and medical procedures. As these industries progress, the reliance on ultrapure water is expected to persist, serving as an indispensable resource to uphold the standards of excellence and innovation within the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare outcomes and enhanced patient well-being.

Emphasizing sustainable practices to conserve water resources and minimize carbon footprint is expanding the market

Industries worldwide are progressively embracing sustainable approaches to mitigate their environmental footprint. Utilizing UPW systems facilitates water recycling and reuse initiatives, empowering enterprises to conserve precious water resources and shrink their carbon footprint. These systems play a pivotal role in enabling the efficient recycling and repurposing of water, aligning with broader sustainability goals. By employing UPW systems, companies can effectively manage water consumption, reduce wastewater generation, and minimize reliance on freshwater sources. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to environmental preservation by alleviating strain on natural water bodies. Furthermore, the adoption of UPW systems underscores a commitment to responsible stewardship of resources, fostering a culture of sustainability within industries. Ultimately, integrating UPW technology into operations not only drives environmental benefits but also aligns with economic imperatives, positioning companies as leaders in sustainable practices.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Challenges posed by complex system design and operation hinder end-users impacting the market

The intricate design and operation of UPW systems demand meticulous attention to ensure their efficiency and purity. End-users often encounter challenges related to comprehending, maintaining, and troubleshooting these systems due to their complexity. The intricate nature of UPW systems necessitates careful consideration during the design, installation, and ongoing operation phases. This complexity can present hurdles for users seeking to grasp the nuances of system functionality and maintenance protocols. Additionally, troubleshooting issues within these systems requires a thorough understanding of their intricate components and processes. Therefore, end-users may face difficulties in promptly addressing system malfunctions or performance deviations. Overcoming these challenges entails comprehensive training and support to empower users with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of UPW system design and operation effectively. Ultimately, ensuring optimal performance and purity of UPW systems hinges on diligent attention to detail and robust maintenance practices.

ULTRAPURE WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEMS MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

The market is primarily segregated into Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, North America, and Middle East & Africa.

North America leads the market due to its strong electronics industry and strict regulations

North America holds a dominating position in the global ultrapure water purification systems market share, primarily propelled by several factors. The region's robust electronics industry, coupled with rigorous quality standards and substantial investments in research and development initiatives, contributes to its dominance. The well-established presence of leading electronic manufacturers underscores North America's significance as a key market for ultrapure water purification systems. Furthermore, stringent regulatory frameworks aimed at ensuring product quality and safety further bolster the demand for these systems in the region. Additionally, ongoing advancements in technology and continuous innovation drive the adoption of ultrapure water purification solutions across various industries. As a result, North America maintains its leadership in the market, with a strong foothold supported by a thriving industrial landscape and a commitment to cutting-edge research and development endeavours.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Enhanced product quality benefits key industry leaders and boosts market competitiveness

UPW systems play a crucial role in elevating product standards by supplying ultrapure water devoid of any impurities that might compromise the performance, dependability, and safety of final products. These systems meticulously eliminate organic and inorganic compounds, particulate matter, and dissolved gases, ensuring that the water utilized in manufacturing processes meets exceptionally high purity benchmarks. In industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology, where even minute impurities can lead to significant defects or compromised efficacy, the assurance of purity provided by UPW systems is indispensable. Key industry players benefit significantly from this assurance, as it not only ensures the consistency and reliability of product quality but also fosters consumer trust and compliance with regulatory standards. By investing in UPW systems, companies can enhance their competitive edge, minimize risks associated with product quality issues, and maintain their reputation for delivering top-notch products to the market.

List of Market Players Profiled

• DOW (U.S.)
• GE (U.S.)
• Pall (U.S.)
• Evoqua (U.S.)
• Nalco (U.S.)
• Mar-Cor Purification (U.S.)
• Pentair PLC (U.K.)
• Ovivo (Canada)
• Veolia (France)
• Asahi Kasei (Japan)
• Kurita Water (Japan)
• Hitachi (Japan)
• Hyflux (Singapore)
• Rightleder (China)
• Pure Water No.1 (China)
• Hongsen Huanbao (China)

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

February 2024: Ovivo, a global water and wastewater treatment provider, has acquired E2metrix, a Canadian technology company specializing in electrochemical technologies for destroying PFAS and other emerging contaminants in water. The acquisition aims to develop an integrated solution to remove and destroy PFAS from water supplies. Ovivo and E2metrix are piloting the solution in Alabama, achieving impressive results, and plan to expand testing across North America.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The research report delves into market segmentation, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a thorough analysis. It also evaluates the impact of financial and strategic perspectives on the market. Furthermore, the report presents national and regional assessments, considering the dominant forces of supply and demand that influence market growth. The competitive landscape is meticulously detailed, including market shares of significant competitors. The report incorporates novel research methodologies and player strategies tailored for the anticipated timeframe. Overall, it offers valuable and comprehensive insights into the market dynamics in a formal and easily understandable manner.