STEPAN COMPANY-Company profile, Business Overview, Financial Performance, Operating Segments, Strategic Moves, and Competitive Intelligence Report

Surfactants are organic chemicals with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic end that when added to a liquid, changes its properties at the surface or interface. Surfactants allow oil molecules to mix with or ‘dissolve’ in water. Their properties such as wettability, detergency, emulsion, dispersion stabilization and foam/froth have vast practical applications in variety of industries. The surfactant industry is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.4% during 2015-2020 with global consumption of 17,500 kilo tons in 2014. The key drivers responsible for the growth of this industry includes growing end user industries such as household detergents and personal care among others, in developed and developing economies. However, rising prices and environmental concerns due to stringent regulations may hamper the growth of surfactants market in future.