An ion exchange resin is a resin that serves as an ion-exchange medium. It is a small insoluble matrix made from organic polymer substrates, generally in the shape of a tiny bead. This resin bead's surface is generally porous. This facilitates the easy trapping and release of ions. Ion exchange resins are employed in a variety of purification, separation, and decontamination procedures. Water filtration and softening are two common uses. In these procedures, ion exchange resins may be employed instead of zeolites. They are also quite successful in the filtering of biodiesel.
Ion exchange resins are classified into four types: cationic resins, anionic resins, chelation resins, and adsorbent resins. In 2015, the cationic resins category accounted for the largest proportion of the global ion exchange resins market. During the predicted period, it is expected to maintain its supremacy. The major driver of the cationic resins sector is their use in water softening and demineralization in industries including water treatment, nuclear, and chemical. During the projection period, the chelation resins and adsorbent resins categories are expected to grow rapidly. Chelation resins are utilized in agriculture and pharmaceuticals, whereas adsorbent resins are used in the food and beverage sector. These categories are expected to develop considerably as demand for processed foods rises and agricultural uses expand in Asia Pacific nations such as China and India.
The worldwide ion exchange resins market may be divided into the following end-use industries: power, water treatment, food & beverages, chemical, pharmaceutical, and others. In 2015, the power sector accounted for the lion's share of the ion exchange resins market. It is expected to maintain its supremacy during the projected period. Ion exchange resins are widely used in the power sector to demineralize feed water and polish condensate inside water-steam circuits.