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The unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) industry plays a crucial role in the global chemical and composite materials landscape, known for its versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness across a wide range of applications. Unsaturated polyester resins are thermosetting resins formed by the reaction of polyols with unsaturated dibasic acids or anhydrides, commonly dissolved in a reactive monomer like styrene. These resins have become the backbone of the fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) industry, widely used in construction, marine, automotive, electrical, and consumer goods sectors. This report comes with 10% free customization, enabling you to add data that meets your specific business needs.
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Their popularity stems from their excellent mechanical, thermal, and chemical resistance properties, which make them ideal for producing lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and structurally strong products such as tanks, pipes, panels, bathtubs, and boat hulls. Over the decades, UPRs have significantly contributed to reducing the weight and cost of industrial and consumer products, while maintaining structural integrity and performance. Their ability to be molded into complex shapes and bonded with different reinforcements such as glass fiber further enhances their value proposition in high-demand industrial applications.
One of the primary drivers of the unsaturated polyester resins industry is the booming construction and infrastructure sector, particularly in emerging economies across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. In these regions, rapid urbanization, population growth, and heavy investments in commercial and residential infrastructure have increased the demand for high-performance building materials that offer durability and design flexibility at a competitive cost. UPRs are widely used in manufacturing roofing sheets, wall panels, and reinforced concrete structures due to their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and their resistance to corrosion, moisture, and UV radiation.
According to the research report “Global Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPR) Market Outlook, 2030” the global Unsaturated Polyester Resins (UPR) market is projected to reach market size of USD 13.62 Billion by 2030 increasing from USD 19.60 Billion in 2024, growing with 6.39% CAGR by 2025-30. The marine industry also heavily relies on UPRs for manufacturing lightweight and corrosion-resistant components for boats, yachts, and other watercraft. Similarly, the automotive sector benefits from UPRs in the production of body panels, bumpers, and under-hood components, where lightweight materials are critical for enhancing fuel efficiency and meeting regulatory emission standards.
In recent years, the industry has also witnessed growth in eco-friendly and low-styrene emission formulations, as environmental and health regulations become stricter. Traditionally, styrene, used as a cross-linking monomer in UPRs, has raised concerns due to its volatility and health hazards. Consequently, manufacturers are increasingly investing in the development of low-VOC (volatile organic compound) and bio-based unsaturated polyester resins to meet sustainability targets and comply with international environmental standards. Research into renewable feedstocks, such as plant-based diacids and polyols, is beginning to shape the future of the UPR market.
Additionally, advances in resin formulation have improved curing speeds, shrinkage control, and resistance properties, further expanding the potential applications and performance of UPR-based composites. These innovations are not only improving the environmental footprint of UPRs but are also opening doors to new markets such as wind energy, where light yet durable materials are essential for manufacturing large rotor blades and housing components.
Market Drivers
- Growing Demand from Construction and Infrastructure Sectors: The rapid expansion of construction activities, especially in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa, is a primary driver for UPRs. Their excellent mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and low cost make them ideal for applications like roofing sheets, panels, and composites used in bridges, pipelines, and prefabricated structures. This demand is amplified by the shift toward lightweight, low-maintenance materials in both urban and industrial development.
- Increased Use in Lightweight Automotive and Transportation Components: As automotive manufacturers pursue fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, the use of UPR-based fiber-reinforced plastics is growing in vehicle interiors, body panels, and engine covers. UPRs offer a valuable combination of strength, low weight, and moldability making them a cost-effective alternative to metals and heavier thermoset resins.
Market Challenges
- Environmental and Regulatory Pressure Due to Styrene Emissions: One of the major concerns surrounding UPRs is their reliance on styrene, a volatile organic compound (VOC) with known health and environmental risks. As global regulatory bodies tighten limits on VOC emissions, manufacturers face the challenge of reformulating resins to comply with air quality standards while maintaining performance and cost-efficiency.
- Raw Material Price Volatility and Supply Chain Disruptions: UPR production depends heavily on petrochemical-derived inputs like maleic anhydride and glycols. Fluctuations in crude oil prices, coupled with global supply chain disruptions, impact the cost and availability of these raw materials posing risks to profitability and pricing strategies.
Market Trends
- Shift Toward Bio-Based and Low-VOC Resins: In response to regulatory pressure and sustainability goals, companies are investing in the development of bio-based UPRs derived from renewable sources (like plant oils and recycled plastics). Additionally, low-styrene or styrene-free formulations are gaining popularity as environmentally friendlier alternatives with reduced health hazards and workplace exposure.
- Rising Adoption in Renewable Energy Applications: The growth of the wind energy sector is emerging as a new opportunity for UPRs, particularly in the manufacturing of composite wind turbine blades and nacelles. UPRs' lightweight and corrosion-resistant nature makes them suitable for harsh outdoor environments, aligning with global investments in clean energy infrastructure.
Orthophthalic resin, commonly referred to as Ortho resin, has emerged as the dominant type within the unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market due to its broad applicability and economical production costs. It is the most widely used UPR formulation because it provides an excellent combination of mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and ease of processing suitable for both reinforced and non-reinforced applications. Industries such as construction, marine, transportation, and consumer goods frequently rely on orthophthalic resins for the manufacture of fiberglass products, roofing sheets, pipes, panels, bathtubs, tanks, and automotive components.
Its relatively low cost, compared to other variants like isophthalic or DCPD (dicyclopentadiene) resins, makes it especially attractive for high-volume production where budget constraints are critical. Moreover, orthophthalic resins are known for their good adhesion properties, high reactivity, and compatibility with fillers and reinforcements, which further enhances their adaptability across different end-use industries. While newer, more specialized UPR types are gaining traction in performance-driven niches, orthophthalic resins continue to dominate the market by serving as the go-to solution for standard-grade applications where cost efficiency, ease of availability, and satisfactory performance are the top priorities.
Building & construction leads the unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market due to its high demand for durable, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant materials used in infrastructure, architectural components, and composite construction products.
The building and construction sector dominates the unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market because of the material’s unique ability to offer strength, flexibility, and cost-efficiency in structural and decorative applications. UPRs are widely used in the production of fiber-reinforced composites such as roofing sheets, wall panels, concrete reinforcements, doors, window frames, and sanitary ware. These resins are particularly valuable in environments exposed to moisture, chemicals, or extreme weather conditions, where traditional materials like wood or metal may degrade over time.
UPRs provide excellent corrosion resistance, which is critical for long-term performance in both residential and industrial structures, especially in coastal or high-humidity regions. Additionally, their lightweight nature makes them easier to transport and install, reducing construction time and labor costs. The versatility of UPRs allows architects and engineers to mold complex designs and incorporate aesthetically appealing finishes without compromising on structural integrity.
With growing urbanization, infrastructure development, and demand for sustainable construction solutions particularly in emerging markets across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East the need for advanced composite materials like UPRs has risen sharply. Moreover, advancements in resin technology now enable UPRs to meet fire-retardant and low-VOC standards, aligning with stricter building codes and green construction practices.
Liquid form is leading in the unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market because it offers superior ease of handling, mixing, and application, making it highly suitable for mass production and versatile manufacturing processes.
The liquid form of unsaturated polyester resins dominates the UPR market primarily because of its exceptional processing advantages and widespread compatibility with a variety of molding and fabrication techniques. Liquid UPRs can be easily mixed with catalysts, fillers, and reinforcements like glass fibers, enabling manufacturers to tailor the properties of the final product with precision. This adaptability makes liquid resins highly efficient for processes such as hand lay-up, spray-up, resin transfer molding (RTM), and centrifugal casting, all of which are commonly used in the production of pipes, tanks, panels, boat hulls, and structural components.
Additionally, the fluid nature of liquid resins allows them to flow easily into complex molds, ensuring uniform distribution and reducing air entrapment crucial for achieving consistent quality and structural integrity in finished composites. Manufacturers also favor liquid UPRs for their relatively fast curing times and the ability to adjust viscosity to suit specific application needs. Compared to solid or paste forms, liquid resins require less energy for preparation and are easier to transport in bulk, which further reduces operational costs. Their ability to be stored, poured, and dispensed using automated equipment also supports high-throughput industrial manufacturing, improving production efficiency.
Asia-Pacific is leading the unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market due to its rapid industrialization, booming construction activities, and the presence of large-scale manufacturing hubs with cost-effective production capabilities.
The Asia-Pacific region dominates the global unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market, driven by a powerful combination of economic growth, industrial expansion, and infrastructure development across key countries such as China, India, South Korea, and Southeast Asian nations. The region has witnessed a surge in demand for UPRs, particularly in the construction, automotive, marine, and electrical industries, where these resins are widely used for their lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-efficient properties.
In countries like China and India, the rapid pace of urbanization and government investments in housing, transportation, and industrial infrastructure have significantly boosted the consumption of fiber-reinforced plastics and composite materials made from UPRs. Furthermore, Asia-Pacific benefits from the availability of abundant raw materials and low-cost labor, which enables manufacturers to produce UPRs at a globally competitive price. This cost advantage has attracted major global players and domestic companies to establish production facilities across the region, making it a manufacturing powerhouse for UPR-based products.
Additionally, the growing middle-class population and rising disposable incomes are fueling demand for consumer goods, vehicles, and appliances further stimulating UPR consumption in diverse applications. The region’s supportive government policies, expanding export opportunities, and increasing awareness of lightweight and sustainable materials continue to strengthen its position.
- In March 2025, KPS Capital Partners, LP has acquired the composites business from INEOS Enterprises. INEOS Composites is recognized as one of the leading global manufacturers of unsaturated polyester resins. This acquisition is anticipated to strengthen the market's dynamics.
- In January 2025, Ecoinvent has unveiled new life cycle assessment (LCA) data for unsaturated polyester (UP) and vinyl ester (VE) resins allowing composite manufacturers to effectively assess the environmental impact of their products. This information introduced in Ecoinvent 3.11 stems from a study commissioned by five European resin producers and carried out by Ernst & Young. The revamped life cycle inventory encompasses energy use, emissions and waste generation across different resin chemistries.
- In December 2024, AOC, a prominent player in specialty resins has completed a new manufacturing line in Nanjing, China focused on unsaturated polyester resin. This development aligns with national industrial strategies and addresses the increasing demand for advanced composites. The facility boosts AOC’s capacity by an additional 10,000 tons ensuring a reliable supply of high-performance resins for local composite producers.
- In October 2024, Nippon Paint Holdings Co., Ltd. has signed a purchase agreement to acquire all equity interests in AOC, a manufacturer of unsaturated polyester resin with operations primarily in the United States and Europe. Upon completion, AOC will become a Nippon Paint Holdings Co., Ltd subsidiary.
- In April 2024, BASF's Coatings division has launched a new series of eco-efficient clearcoats and undercoats resins tailored for the Asia Pacific refinish market. These cutting-edge products improve quality, enhance productivity and lower carbon dioxide emissions assisting body shops in enhancing both profitability and sustainability. The introduction highlights BASF's dedication to environmental stewardship in the automotive refinish industry.
- In March 2024, BÜFA and AOC have broadened their sales partnership to include Sweden providing an expanded range of resins, gelcoats and supplementary materials. This extension fortifies their long-term collaboration across Europe granting Swedish customers access to high-quality products through BÜFA Composites Nordics.
Considered in this report
- Historic Year: 2019
- Base year: 2024
- Estimated year: 2025
- Forecast year: 2030
Aspects covered in this report
- Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
- Various drivers and challenges
- On-going trends and developments
- Top profiled companies
- Strategic recommendation
By Type
- Orthophthalic Resin
- Isophthalic Resin
- Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) Resin
- Others (Terephthalic-Based UPRs, Vinyl Ester-Modified UPRs, Halogenated UPRs, Bio-Based UPRs)
By End-use
- Building & Construction
- Tanks & Pipes
- Electrical
- Marine
- Transport
- Artificial Stones
- Others
By Form
- Liquid Form
- Powder Form
The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases.After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.
Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to this industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary5. Economic /Demographic Snapshot13. Strategic Recommendations15. Disclaimer
2. Market Dynamics
3. Research Methodology
4. Market Structure
6. Global Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Outlook
7. North America Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Outlook
8. Europe Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Outlook
9. Asia-Pacific Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Outlook
10. South America Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Outlook
11. Middle East & Africa Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Outlook
12. Competitive Landscape
14. Annexure
List of Figures
Companies Mentioned (Partial List)
A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:
- DIC Corporation
- BASF SE
- Scott Bader Co.
- Dow Inc.
- Polynt Group S.À R.L.
- INEOS Group Limited
- Allnex
- Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.
- Resource Wise LLC
- Resonac K.K.
- Covestro AG
- Composite Envisions LLC
- Interplastic Corporation
- Fibre Glast Developments Corporation
- AZUR S.A.
- SIR Industriale S.p.A.
- Eternal Materials Co Ltd
- Qualipoly Chemical Corp
- Ruia Chemicals Pvt. Ltd.
- UPC Technology Corp.
Table Information
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| No. of Pages | 189 |
| Published | June 2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2024 - 2030 |
| Estimated Market Value ( USD | $ 13.62 Billion |
| Forecasted Market Value ( USD | $ 19.6 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate | 6.3% |
| Regions Covered | Global |
