According to Custom Market Insights (CMI), the global polybutene-1 market size was valued at USD 559.38 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1,149.29 million by the end of 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 8.33% during the forecast period of 2025–2034. Polybutylene, also known as PB-1, is a member of the thermoplastic polyolefin family, which also includes polypropylene and polyethylene.

This material is a linear, semi-crystalline, and highly isotactic thermoplastic. It is produced through the polymerization of 1-butene using stereospecific catalysts. Different grades of PB-1 are available to suit various applications, such as extrusion, injection molding, and blow molding. The market for poly(1-butene) is anticipated to expand steadily, reaching a projected value of USD 1,149.29 million by 2034.

Polybutene-1 finds use in a wide variety of consumer applications, including piping systems, hot melt adhesives, easy-open packaging, and film used in medical products. It is particularly valued in pipe systems for its excellent flexibility and high resistance to creep, even across a wide range of temperatures.

One of the key uses of PB-1 is in packaging that is easy to peel, seal, and open. Examples include packaging for cheese, cereals, and carton liners. This type of packaging has grown in demand due to changing consumer lifestyles, with many people seeking convenient, ready-to-eat food options. The increased pace of life and a growing preference for convenience foods are expected to further drive the use of PB-1 in easy-peel packaging over the forecast period.

Market Dynamics

Drivers
Polybutene-1’s flexibility and high tear strength make it a preferred choice as a co-monomer in manufacturing various products, such as toys, containers, pipes, linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and other polyethylene/polypropylene resin-based non-food packaging products. Beyond these, PB-1 is also a raw material for producing chemicals like valeraldehyde, polybutene, butadiene, butylene oxide, maleic anhydride, secondary butyl alcohol (SBA), and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). Additionally, 1-butene serves as an intermediate in the production of plasticizers, antioxidants, corrosion inhibitors, herbicides, and additives for hydraulic and lubricating fluids.

Among the fastest-growing application areas is food packaging. Packaged food supports busy lifestyles by offering ready-to-eat solutions while also providing the option to reseal after partial consumption. This makes PB-1 highly attractive to the packaging industry, as it allows for easy opening without the need for tools. Applications range from packaging for fresh pasta, sliced cheese, meat, and pizza to ready-to-eat meals, yogurt cups, and sandwich packs.

PB-1 is also widely used in vacuum packaging for food products such as cheese, coffee, vacuum-packed rice, pork, and peanuts. It enables the creation of various film structures that ensure secure packaging. Consequently, the global polybutene-1 market is seeing strong demand from the food packaging sector.

Another driver of growth is PB-1’s durability at high temperatures and its resistance to mechanical, thermal, and creep stress. These attributes make it suitable for plumbing systems, hot melt adhesives, and advanced packaging solutions. Polybutene-1 pipeline systems have earned the trust of engineers, architects, and homeowners for their flexibility, energy efficiency, and reliability. The PB-1 pipe system also enables efficient network management, contributing to its growing adoption in industrial and residential settings. As a result, demand from the piping industry is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.

Restraints
One of the main restraints for the market is the volatility in PB-1 prices. Frequent price fluctuations can make it challenging for consumers to plan their purchases and manage budgets effectively. Businesses may also face difficulties in maintaining consistent production and supply levels due to unpredictable raw material costs.

Opportunities
There is ongoing research aimed at developing biodegradable polyethylene to address the non-biodegradable nature of PB-1. If successful, this innovation would open significant new market opportunities for manufacturers, enabling them to cater to growing environmental concerns while expanding their product offerings.

Challenges
Despite its many advantages, PB-1 is non-biodegradable, which poses disposal and environmental challenges. As governments worldwide promote recycling initiatives and stricter plastic waste management policies, there is a possibility of reduced demand for non-biodegradable plastics in the future. This could indirectly impact the growth of the PB-1 market.

Report Highlights
By product grade, the extrusion grade segment is projected to experience the highest CAGR and maintain a leading market position in the coming years. The growing use of PB-1 pipe products across key applications worldwide is a major driver. Extrusion-grade PB-1 is popular in the production of both consumer electronics and food packaging because it is 100% recyclable.

The material offers excellent flexibility, minimal memory effect, and the ability to produce thinner pipe walls. Additionally, PB-1 pipes are well-suited for installations in tight or confined spaces, offering potential cost savings due to faster installation times. Rising demand for pipe systems in developing economies, especially across the Asia-Pacific region, is expected to further boost demand for extrusion-grade PB-1.

https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/poly1-butene-market/