Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Orthophthalic, Isophthalic, Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD), Others), By Applications Covered (Construction Industry, Automotive Industry, Shipbuilding Industry, Other Composites, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Size

The Unsaturated Polyester Resins market size was USD 12,215.98 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 12,897.64 million in 2025, growing to USD 19,914.22 million by 2033, with a growth rate of 5.58% during the forecast period (2025-2033).

The US Unsaturated Polyester Resins market holds approximately 25% of the global market share, driven by strong demand from industries such as automotive, construction, and marine, with growing adoption of lightweight, durable composite materials.

The unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market is experiencing robust growth, with UPRs accounting for about 15% of the global resin market. In 2024, the market size is approximately USD 13.05 billion and is projected to reach USD 22.12 billion by 2030. The demand for UPRs is largely driven by industries such as construction, automotive, marine, and wind energy, where their lightweight, durability, and corrosion-resistant properties are critical. Approximately 40% of the market growth is driven by the increasing use of UPRs in the construction sector, followed by automotive and wind energy, each contributing 25% and 15%, respectively.

Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Trends

The unsaturated polyester resins market is witnessing several significant trends. Sustainability is a primary driver, with eco-friendly UPRs contributing to 20% of market growth, especially as industries transition to greener practices. Technological advancements have enhanced the properties of UPRs, leading to a 15% increase in their use in high-performance applications, particularly in aerospace and wind energy sectors. The Asia-Pacific region dominates the UPR market, holding over 58% of the global market share in 2024, driven by rapid industrialization and infrastructure growth in countries like China and India. Diversification into new applications, such as artificial stones and electrical components, has expanded UPR use, resulting in a 20% increase in demand in the electrical and electronics sectors.

Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Dynamics

The unsaturated polyester resins market is driven by several key factors. Demand for lightweight, durable, and cost-effective materials in automotive and construction sectors is fueling growth, contributing to approximately 40% of the market’s expansion. The wind energy sector is another key driver, with a 15% growth due to the superior mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of UPRs. However, competition from alternative materials, such as epoxy resins and thermoplastic composites, which account for about 25% of the market, poses challenges for UPR adoption in high-performance applications. Opportunities for growth are emerging in Asia-Pacific, contributing 35% to market expansion, as rapid industrialization and infrastructure development in this region drive UPR demand. Additionally, the increasing focus on sustainable materials is opening up 20% growth potential in green building and eco-friendly product development.

Drivers of Market Growth

" Increasing Demand for Lightweight Materials"

The demand for lightweight materials in industries such as automotive, construction, and marine is significantly driving the unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market. Approximately 35% of market growth is attributed to the automotive sector, where UPRs are increasingly used for their strength-to-weight ratio and durability. In construction, UPRs account for around 25% of market growth due to their use in architectural applications like roofing and cladding. Additionally, the growing adoption of wind energy systems is contributing to 15% of market expansion, driven by UPRs' corrosion resistance and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions. The automotive and construction sectors are the primary drivers, with rising industrialization and demand for sustainable and efficient materials being key factors.

Market Restraints

"Competition from Alternative Materials"

A major restraint to the growth of the unsaturated polyester resins market is the increasing competition from alternative materials such as epoxy resins and thermoplastic composites. These alternatives offer superior mechanical strength and thermal stability in high-performance applications, which has led to a 20% reduction in UPR market share in certain industries. Epoxy resins, for example, account for 30% of market demand in automotive and aerospace applications due to their enhanced durability and heat resistance. Despite the advantages of UPRs, the availability of more advanced alternatives limits the potential for UPRs in certain high-performance industries, hindering broader market penetration.

Market Opportunities

" Growth in Wind Energy Applications"

The growing adoption of wind energy is a significant opportunity for the unsaturated polyester resins market. Approximately 15% of market growth is driven by their use in wind turbine blades, where UPRs provide the necessary strength, lightweight properties, and durability required for long-lasting performance. With the global push for renewable energy, the wind energy sector is expanding rapidly, with more countries investing in wind farms. The demand for UPRs in this sector is expected to increase by 20% as renewable energy generation continues to rise, offering substantial opportunities for manufacturers to innovate and expand their presence in this eco-friendly segment.

Market Challenges

" Environmental Regulations and Sustainability Demands"

One of the key challenges in the unsaturated polyester resins market is the increasing pressure to comply with environmental regulations and the rising demand for sustainable products. Around 25% of the market faces regulatory hurdles, particularly in regions like Europe, where stricter environmental laws require manufacturers to develop low-VOC and eco-friendly resin alternatives. The demand for more sustainable UPRs is driving significant research and development costs, which are raising production expenses for manufacturers. Additionally, a shift towards bio-based materials is gaining traction, further challenging UPR manufacturers to innovate and adopt greener production methods. These sustainability requirements are creating barriers to market growth as companies adapt to regulatory and consumer demands.

Segmentation Analysis

The unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market is segmented by type and application. By type, the market includes orthophthalic, isophthalic, dicyclopentadiene (DCPD), and other UPRs. Orthophthalic UPRs dominate the market, comprising around 45%, due to their cost-effectiveness and broad application in industries like automotive and construction. Isophthalic UPRs make up about 25% of the market, with better heat resistance and durability, making them ideal for automotive and industrial applications. DCPD UPRs, at 15%, are used in specialized applications such as electrical insulation and marine components. The remaining 15% is driven by other types of resins, catering to niche markets. The applications include construction, automotive, shipbuilding, and other composite industries, with construction accounting for the largest share due to infrastructure development.

By Type

• Orthophthalic: Orthophthalic unsaturated polyester resins account for approximately 45% of the market share. These resins are widely used for their cost-effectiveness, ease of processing, and excellent mechanical properties, making them suitable for the automotive and construction industries. Orthophthalic UPRs are typically used in manufacturing composite materials such as roofing sheets, cladding, and vehicle body parts due to their balance of performance and cost. The high adoption of these resins is driven by their versatility and the continuous demand for affordable composite materials in various industrial applications.

• Isophthalic: Isophthalic unsaturated polyester resins make up around 25% of the UPR market. Known for their enhanced heat and chemical resistance, isophthalic resins are ideal for high-performance applications in the automotive and industrial sectors. These resins are used in products that require improved durability, such as corrosion-resistant coatings and automotive parts. The higher cost compared to orthophthalic resins is mitigated by the superior performance properties, especially in environments with elevated temperatures or aggressive chemicals, thus driving growth in specialized applications.

• Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD): Dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) unsaturated polyester resins account for about 15% of the market. These resins are particularly favored in applications that require high resistance to impact and excellent electrical insulation properties. DCPD UPRs are extensively used in the manufacture of electrical components, pipes, and marine parts. Their superior toughness and resistance to degradation make them suitable for demanding environments, and their adoption is increasing in specialized sectors such as electrical and aerospace composites.

• Others: The "Others" category in the unsaturated polyester resins market, which includes various specialized and niche UPRs, contributes around 15% of the market. These resins include blends and formulations designed for specific applications such as food packaging and high-performance automotive parts. The demand for customized solutions in industries like aerospace, wind energy, and medical devices is contributing to the growth of this segment, as manufacturers seek specialized materials that offer unique properties tailored to specific functional requirements.

By Application

• Construction Industry: The construction industry is the largest application sector for unsaturated polyester resins, accounting for approximately 40% of the market share. UPRs are commonly used in the production of materials such as composites, insulation panels, and architectural products due to their excellent durability and resistance to environmental factors. The global growth in infrastructure development, particularly in emerging economies, is fueling demand for UPR-based materials in construction. The segment is expected to continue expanding as urbanization accelerates globally, further driving the need for sustainable and high-performance construction materials.

• Automotive Industry: The automotive industry represents about 30% of the unsaturated polyester resins market. UPRs are used in the manufacturing of lightweight and durable automotive parts, including body panels, bumpers, and interior components. The demand for fuel-efficient and sustainable vehicles has led to an increased focus on lightweight materials, thus driving the adoption of UPRs in the automotive sector. This segment is growing as car manufacturers continue to embrace composite materials to reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency.

• Shipbuilding Industry: The shipbuilding industry contributes about 15% to the unsaturated polyester resins market. UPRs are used in the production of marine composites, including hulls, decks, and tanks, due to their corrosion resistance and ability to withstand harsh marine environments. As the global shipping industry continues to grow, the demand for durable and cost-effective materials in shipbuilding is driving the adoption of UPRs. The shift towards more sustainable and lightweight materials in shipbuilding also presents opportunities for further market growth in this sector.

• Other Composites: Other composites, which include applications in electrical components, aerospace, and renewable energy sectors, account for around 10% of the UPR market. The demand for high-performance resins in these specialized applications is increasing as industries like aerospace and wind energy require lightweight, strong materials with excellent mechanical properties. These industries are driving the adoption of UPRs, which provide optimal performance in demanding applications such as turbine blades and aircraft parts.

Unsaturated Polyester Resins Regional Outlook

The unsaturated polyester resins market is geographically diverse, with Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe dominating the market. Asia-Pacific leads the market, holding over 58% of the global market share, driven by rapid industrialization and infrastructure development. North America and Europe follow, accounting for 25% and 15% of the market, respectively. These regions are witnessing strong demand from industries like automotive, construction, and marine, where UPRs are used in large quantities for manufacturing durable, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant products.

North America

North America holds about 25% of the global unsaturated polyester resins market. The demand in this region is largely driven by the automotive and construction industries, where UPRs are used for their lightweight and durable properties. The U.S. is the largest consumer, followed by Canada, with continued investments in infrastructure and automotive sectors. Additionally, the presence of several key players in the market has helped sustain growth. North America's emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly materials is also pushing demand for UPRs in green building materials and energy-efficient automotive applications.

Europe

Europe accounts for approximately 15% of the unsaturated polyester resins market. The region’s demand for UPRs is driven primarily by the automotive, construction, and shipbuilding industries. Germany, France, and the UK are key markets, with stringent environmental regulations boosting the use of sustainable materials like UPRs. Additionally, the adoption of renewable energy, including wind energy, in Europe is contributing to increased demand for UPRs, particularly in wind turbine blade production. The growing focus on lightweight materials and fuel-efficient vehicles is expected to drive further growth in the region.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific holds the largest share of the unsaturated polyester resins market, with more than 58% of the global market share. This growth is driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and a booming construction sector, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan. The automotive industry in Asia-Pacific is also a major contributor to market demand, with a rising need for lightweight composite materials. Additionally, the expanding shipbuilding industry in the region, particularly in China and South Korea, is expected to continue driving the demand for UPRs. The region's growth prospects remain strong due to increased infrastructure development and rising industrial activity.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa accounts for about 5% of the global unsaturated polyester resins market. The demand in this region is primarily driven by construction and infrastructure development, with significant investments in housing, commercial projects, and industrial facilities. As the region continues to urbanize and develop, the demand for durable and cost-effective composite materials is increasing. Additionally, the growing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly construction methods is contributing to the adoption of UPRs, further boosting market growth. With rapid industrialization, the region is expected to see steady growth in the coming years.

List of Key Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market Companies Profiled

• Guangdong Huaxun
• Scott Bader
• Jiangsu Fullmark
• Axson Technologies (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
• HELM AG
• Japan Composite
• Luxchem Polymer Industries
• Japan U-Pica Company Ltd.
• PT. Arindo Pacific Chemicals
• Reichhold Inc
• SHOWA DENKO K.K.
• Aekyung Petrochemical Co., Ltd
• Tianhe Resin
• PT Chandra Asri Petrochemical Tbk (CAP)
• Tokan Material Technology Co., Ltd
• PT Styrindo Mono Indonesia (SMI)
• Changzhou Fangxin
• PT Justus Kimiaraya
• Changzhou Huari
• Saudi Industrial Resins Ltd.
• U-Pica Technology Group
• Luxchem Corporation Berhad
• Astar (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd.
• Yongsan Chemicals

Top 2 Companies with Highest Market Share

1. Reichhold Inc – Holds approximately 18% of the market share, recognized for its extensive portfolio and strong presence in key sectors like automotive, construction, and marine.
2. Scott Bader – Accounts for about 15% of the market share, with a strong reputation for its high-performance resins and applications in industries such as composites, automotive, and coatings.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The unsaturated polyester resins market offers substantial growth potential driven by increasing industrial applications across construction, automotive, and marine sectors. Approximately 40% of investments are focused on enhancing resin properties, such as improving heat resistance, durability, and recyclability, making them more suitable for demanding applications. The push for sustainable materials has driven a 20% increase in investments towards bio-based and low-VOC resins, aligning with environmental regulations and consumer preferences for eco-friendly products. Additionally, rapid industrialization in emerging markets such as Asia-Pacific presents opportunities for market expansion, contributing to 25% of the market’s overall growth. The wind energy sector also represents a growth area, with investments in UPRs for turbine blade manufacturing seeing a 15% increase, driven by the growing demand for renewable energy solutions. Companies are further investing in innovative technologies, such as automated systems for resin production, which can lower operational costs and increase production efficiency, contributing to approximately 10% of the market’s investment focus. With growing demand in construction, automotive, and energy sectors, the market is expected to continue seeing diverse investment activities that focus on both performance enhancement and sustainability.

New Products Development

Product innovation plays a key role in driving the growth of the unsaturated polyester resins market. In recent years, there has been a 20% increase in the development of eco-friendly, bio-based UPR formulations to meet the rising demand for sustainable materials. Companies like Scott Bader and Reichhold Inc. have introduced products with improved mechanical properties, such as higher tensile strength and enhanced heat resistance, which are particularly suitable for automotive and aerospace applications. Additionally, UPR manufacturers have made strides in developing low-VOC resins to meet stringent environmental regulations, which account for approximately 15% of recent product innovations. In response to the demand from renewable energy sectors, especially wind energy, new UPR formulations are being introduced with enhanced durability and resistance to environmental degradation, contributing to a 10% rise in product development for this segment. The growing trend for lightweight composites in the automotive sector has also spurred the creation of UPR products that offer better performance at reduced weight, which is driving 25% of the latest product developments. This trend is in line with the automotive industry's increasing focus on energy-efficient and fuel-saving technologies.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market 

• Reichhold Inc. launched a new high-performance UPR product in 2024, designed for use in marine and automotive applications, offering improved resistance to environmental degradation.

• Scott Bader introduced a sustainable UPR formulation in 2025, derived from bio-based raw materials, catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly resins.

• Luxchem Polymer Industries expanded its product range in 2024 with the introduction of low-VOC UPRs for use in construction and automotive sectors.

• Tianhe Resin developed a new UPR product line in 2025 with enhanced tensile strength and thermal stability, specifically for aerospace applications.

• Japan U-Pica Company Ltd. unveiled a new series of UPRs in 2024, focused on improving the durability and corrosion resistance of wind turbine blades, contributing to the renewable energy sector.

Report Coverage of Unsaturated Polyester Resins Market

This report provides a detailed analysis of the unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) market, focusing on key market drivers, trends, challenges, and opportunities. It covers different types of UPRs, including orthophthalic, isophthalic, and dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) resins, highlighting their unique properties and industrial applications. The report explores the major application sectors such as automotive, construction, marine, and wind energy, which are the primary consumers of UPRs. It also examines regional markets, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa, identifying key growth drivers and regional dynamics. In addition, the report analyzes the competitive landscape, profiling leading companies such as Reichhold Inc., Scott Bader, and others, and highlighting their strategies in product innovation, mergers, acquisitions, and market expansion. The report provides in-depth insights into market segments, including recent product developments, technological advancements, and investment opportunities, offering stakeholders valuable information for strategic decision-making in the rapidly growing UPR market.