Global Dispersion Viscosity Modifier For Lubricants Market Expected to Reach $3.1 Billion by 2033

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, “Global Dispersion Viscosity Modifier For Lubricants Market," The global dispersion viscosity modifier for lubricants market was valued at $2 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $3.1 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2024 to 2033.

Dispersion viscosity modifiers for lubricants are polymeric additives that have good soot dispersion properties. Incompletely burnt fuel tends to generate soot into the crankcase, which in turn, increases the viscosity of oil​. The use of dispersion viscosity modifiers enhances the soot dispersion performance without increasing the viscosity of oil when mixed with the soot. Some examples of dispersion viscosity modifiers include polymethacrylate (PMA) and olefin copolymer (OCP).

The demand for high-performance lubricants in automotive and industrial applications is a major driver for the dispersion viscosity modifiers market growth. As engines and machinery operate under more extreme conditions, there is a rise in need for lubricants that maintain optimal viscosity across a wide temperature range. Dispersion viscosity modifiers enhance soot dispersion characteristics and temperature-viscosity relationship, ensuring engine efficiency and protection. In addition, the push toward sustainability and fuel economy has led to increased adoption of advanced viscosity modifiers, which improve fuel efficiency by reducing friction and wear. The development of new polymer technologies, such as polymethacrylate and olefin copolymers, further boosts market expansion by offering better shear stability, soot dispersion, and resistance to mechanical stress​

Despite the strong demand, several factors restrain the growth of the dispersion viscosity modifiers market. The high cost of advanced polymeric additives is a significant barrier, particularly for smaller lubricant manufacturers.

On the contrary, the increase in focus on promoting the manufacturing and sales of both hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (HPEV) presents new opportunities for the dispersion viscosity modifiers market growth. This opens up new opportunities for viscosity modifiers specifically designed for HEV and PHEV applications.

The dispersion viscosity modifier for lubricants market is segmented on the basis of type and region. By type, the market is segregated into polyalkyl methacrylate (PAMA), olefin copolymer (OCP), polyisobutylene (PIB), and hydrogenated styrene diene (HSD). The olefin copolymer segment dominated the market in terms of revenue in 2023, with 39.3% of the total share.

The demand for olefin copolymers (OCPs) is increasing in the dispersion viscosity modifier market for lubricants due to their excellent performance in improving lubricant efficiency across a wide range of temperatures. OCPs are known for their ability to provide stable, shear-resistant viscosity modification, which helps lubricants maintain consistent flow properties under both high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. This makes them ideal for use in automotive engines, industrial machinery, and other heavy-duty applications where stable viscosity is critical to reducing wear and increasing fuel efficiency.

Additionally, as environmental regulations tighten, there is a growing need for lubricants that can meet stricter emission standards and reduce carbon footprints. OCPs, being durable and compatible with advanced, eco-friendly lubricants, support these goals by enhancing lubricant performance and lifespan. Their versatility in blending with different base oils and their ability to resist breakdown under stress are key factors driving the growing demand in the market.

Region wise, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. Asia-PAcific accounted for the largest share in the global dispersion viscosity modifier for lubricants market. 

The demand for dispersion viscosity modifiers for lubricants is increasing in the Asia-Pacific region due to rapid industrialization and growth in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. Countries like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations are witnessing a surge in manufacturing activities and infrastructure development, which require high-performance machinery and equipment. These industries rely on advanced lubricants that can perform under extreme temperatures and varying conditions, making viscosity modifiers crucial for ensuring lubricant stability and efficiency. The automotive industry, in particular, is expanding, with increased vehicle production and ownership, driving the need for improved engine oils with viscosity modifiers to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce engine wear.

Additionally, rising environmental awareness and stricter regulations in the region are pushing for the use of eco-friendly lubricants. Viscosity modifiers that improve energy efficiency and extend lubricant life are increasingly in demand as companies focus on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. This combination of industrial growth and regulatory pressures is fueling the demand for advanced dispersion viscosity modifiers in Asia-Pacific.

The global dispersion viscosity modifier in lubricants market profiles leading players that include Infineum International Limited, vinati organics limited, Kuraray Co., Ltd., The Lubrizol Corporation, RUHANI INDUSTRIES, KEMAT Polybutenes, KK India Petroleum Specialities Private Limited., Afton Chemical, Functional Products Inc, and A S Harrison & Co Pty Limited. The global dispersion viscosity modifier in lubricants market report provides in-depth competitive analysis as well as profiles of these major players.

Key Findings

• By type, the olefin copolymer (OCP) segment is estimated to display the highest growth rate, in terms of revenue, registering a CAGR of 4.9% from 2024 to 2033.
• Asia-Pacific garnered the highest share of 36.5% in 2023, in terms of revenue, growing at a CAGR of 5.0%.​​​​​​​