North America Aluminum Sulfate Market Expected to reach $0.7 Billion by 2034

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research titled, “North America Aluminum Sulfate Market Grade, From, Application, and Countries: Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2025–2034.” The North America aluminum sulfate market was valued at $0.5 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $0.7 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2025 to 2034.

Introduction

Primary attribute of aluminum sulfate lies in its ability to act as a coagulant, as it can bind together suspended particles in liquids to form larger aggregates or flocs, which can then be more easily separated from the liquid medium. This characteristic makes it indispensable in water treatment and purification processes. Additionally, aluminum sulfate serves as an important component in papermaking, textile processing, dyeing, and in manufacturing various industrial products.

In wastewater treatment facilities, aluminum sulfate is used to remove contaminants and reduce turbidity, helping meet regulatory standards for effluent discharge. Its ability to lower phosphorus levels by precipitating phosphate compounds also helps control eutrophication in receiving water bodies, thereby preserving aquatic ecosystems. In the paper manufacturing industry, aluminum sulfate is used as a sizing agent. Sizing refers to the process of modifying paper’s absorbency to make it more suitable for writing, printing, and other uses. By reacting with rosin (a natural resin), aluminum sulfate helps the paper fibers bind better and creates a hydrophobic surface that resists water and ink bleeding.

Market Dynamics

Growing demand in water treatment is expected to drive the growth of North America aluminum sulfate market. Aluminum sulfate plays a crucial role as a coagulant in both municipal and industrial water treatment processes across North America. Its primary function is to facilitate the removal of suspended impurities, such as dirt, organic matter, and microorganisms, from raw water sources. There has been an increase in demand for aluminum sulfate in water treatment, largely driven by growing concerns over water pollution and the increasing emphasis on public health and environmental protection. Governments and regulatory bodies in the U.S. and Canada have implemented stricter regulations and guidelines to control contaminants in water sources, thereby requiring more effective treatment solutions. In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established legally enforceable limits on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," in drinking water. These regulations aim to reduce exposure for over 100 million Americans and prevent thousands of illnesses.

However, the availability of alternative coagulants is expected to restrain the growth of North America aluminum sulfate market. The presence of alternative coagulants such as ferric chloride and synthetic polymers poses a significant restraint on the growth of the North America aluminum sulfate market. These substitutes often offer specific advantages that make them preferable in certain water treatment and industrial applications. For example, ferric chloride is known for its effectiveness across a wider pH range and sometimes faster coagulation rates, which can be advantageous in treating wastewater with varying chemical compositions. Synthetic polymers, on the other hand, can provide enhanced flocculation properties and may reduce sludge volume, leading to easier handling and disposal. Substitutes like ferric chloride and PAC offer distinct advantages, such as effectiveness across a wider pH range, reduced sludge generation, and sometimes lower costs. These features make them attractive alternatives, in municipal and industrial water treatment applications, thereby limiting the market growth.

Segments Overview

The North America aluminum sulfate market is segmented into grade, form, application, and country. On the basis of grade, the market is divided into standard grade, low iron grade, and iron free grade. On the basis of form, the market is categorized into solid and liquid. On the basis of application, the market is divided into water treatment, paper manufacturing, dyeing, pharmaceutical, and others. By country, the market is analyzed across U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

On the basis of grade, the low iron grade segment is the fastest growing segment in the market, representing the CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period. In the water treatment sector, low iron aluminum sulfate is primarily used as a coagulant to remove impurities such as suspended solids, organic matter, and pathogens. Municipal water treatment facilities across the U,S, and Canada depend on this chemical for efficient clarification processes. Its low iron content is crucial because it ensures that treated water remains colorless and free of ironinduced discoloration or aftertaste, an essential requirement for drinking water standards. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates strict water quality guidelines, driving municipalities to adopt high-purity coagulants like low iron alum.

On the basis of form, the liquid segment is the fastest growing segment in the market, growing with a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period. Innovation in dosing systems and digital water treatment monitoring is further shaping the usage patterns of liquid aluminum sulfate. Automated chemical feed systems allow for real-time adjustments based on water quality data, ensuring optimal alum dosing and reducing chemical waste. This not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports broader environmental and cost-saving initiatives. The compatibility and integration of alum into advanced treatment systems are reinforcing its long-term relevance in North American utilities and industry as smart water technologies gain traction.

On the basis of application, the pharmaceuticals segment is the fastest growing segment in the market, representing a CAGR of 5.2%. Pharmaceutical manufacturers in North America operate under strict U.S. FDA and Health Canada regulations, which means that any compound used in drug production, including aluminum sulfate, must meet high purity and safety standards. This has driven companies to procure pharmaceuticalgrade aluminum sulfate from reliable, certified suppliers. Moreover, the growing focus on sustainable and traceable sourcing in pharmaceutical supply chains has prompted a shift toward locally or regionally produced materials, giving North American aluminum sulfate manufacturers a potential competitive edge.

By country, Canada is the fastest growing country in North America aluminum sulfate market, representing the CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period. The extensive pulp and paper industry in Canada also significantly contributes to aluminum sulfate consumption. The chemical is used in paper manufacturing to improve paper sizing, enhance ink retention, and reduce water absorption. Provinces such as Quebec and British Columbia, which host large pulp and paper operations, are major consumers of aluminum sulfate for this purpose. The role of the chemical in reducing effluent loads during processing further supports sustainability goals in an industry under growing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint.

Competitive Analysis

The major prominent players operating in the North America aluminum sulfate market include American Elements, Hawkins Cookers Limited, Chemtrade Logistics Inc., MERCK KGAA, USALCO, Affinity Chemical, Southern Ionics, Inc., C&S Chemicals, Inc, ClearTech Industries Inc, Univar Solutions LLC, Graham Chemical, CORECHEM Inc., and H&E USA Chemical Corporation.

Key Findings of the Study:

• On the basis of grade, the standard grade segment registered the highest market share accounting for more than half of the market share in 2024.
• On the basis of form, the solid segment garnered the highest share accounting for more than half  of the market share in 2024.
• On the basis of application, the water treatment segment garnered the highest share in 2024, and representing the CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period.
• On the basis of country, the U.S. country was the highest revenue contributor, representing the CAGR of 4.9%.