Global Aqueous-based Metal Cleaners Market Size Study & Forecast, by Cleaning Chemicals, End Use Industries, Chemistry Type, Technology and Regional Forecasts 2025-2035

The Global Aqueous-based Metal Cleaners Market is estimated to be worth approximately USD 12.49 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.30% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. These metal cleaners, driven by aqueous-based solutions, have emerged as indispensable components in industrial maintenance, offering eco-friendly, non-flammable, and cost-effective cleaning alternatives. As industries become increasingly mindful of regulatory compliance, environmental sustainability, and worker safety, the shift away from solvent-based cleaners has gained unprecedented momentum. Aqueous-based metal cleaners serve critical roles across automotive, aerospace, electronics, and heavy machinery sectors by removing contaminants such as grease, oil, particulates, and oxides from metal substrates-enhancing durability, functionality, and aesthetic finish of the treated components.

The demand trajectory is notably influenced by stringent environmental norms including REACH and EPA regulations that restrict the use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs). Consequently, industries have begun to overhaul their cleaning systems and adopt aqueous-based chemistries that leverage biodegradable surfactants, corrosion inhibitors, and alkaline builders. Surging investments in sustainable production and rising demand for precision cleaning from electronics and medical device manufacturing are fuelling growth further. According to industry data, sectors such as automotive manufacturing-which accounted for over 30% of the market share in 2024-are pivoting rapidly toward water-based cleaning protocols to streamline their green compliance objectives while maintaining process efficiency.

Regionally, North America continues to maintain a dominant footprint in the aqueous-based metal cleaners market, bolstered by robust manufacturing infrastructure, a tech-driven approach to industrial maintenance, and strict regulatory oversight from agencies such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Meanwhile, Europe is witnessing significant upscaling in demand-especially in Germany, France, and the UK-owing to increasing automation and environmental governance across industrial operations. However, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to experience the fastest growth through 2035, fueled by burgeoning industrial activities in countries like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations. These economies are investing heavily in upgrading their metal processing standards, with governments encouraging the transition to safer, water-based cleaning technologies through favorable tax policies and innovation grants.

Major market player included in this report are:

• BASF SE
• Evonik Industries AG
• Stepan Company
• 3M Company
• Ecolab Inc.
• The Dow Chemical Company
• The Chemours Company
• Eastman Chemical Company
• Zep Inc.
• Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
• Quaker Houghton
• Kyzen Corporation
• Hubbard-Hall Inc.
• A.W. Chesterton Company
• Crest Ultrasonics Corporation

Global Aqueous-based Metal Cleaners Market Report Scope:

• Historical Data - 2023, 2024
• Base Year for Estimation - 2024
• Forecast period - 2025-2035
• Report Coverage - Revenue forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth factors, and Trends
• Regional Scope - North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa
• Customization Scope - Free report customization (equivalent up to 8 analysts' working hours) with purchase. Addition or alteration to country, regional & segment scope*

The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in recent years and to forecast the values for the coming years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry within the countries involved in the study. The report also provides detailed information about crucial aspects, such as driving factors and challenges, which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, it incorporates potential opportunities in micro-markets for stakeholders to invest, along with a detailed analysis of the competitive landscape and product offerings of key players. The detailed segments and sub-segments of the market are explained below:

By Cleaning Chemicals:

• Builders
• Sequestrants and Inhibitors
• Surfactants

By End Use Industries:

• Automotive
• Aerospace
• Electronics
• Medical
• Industrial Machinery
• Others

By Chemistry Type:

• Alkaline Cleaners
• Neutral Cleaners
• Acidic Cleaners

By Technology:

• Spray Cleaning
• Immersion Cleaning
• Ultrasonic Cleaning
• Others

By Region:

• North America
• U.S.
• Canada
• Europe
• UK
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Italy
• ROE
• Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• RoAPAC
• Latin America
• Brazil
• Mexico
• Middle East & Africa
• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Rest of Middle East & Africa

Key Takeaways:

• Market Estimates & Forecast for 10 years from 2025 to 2035.
• Annualized revenues and regional level analysis for each market segment.
• Detailed analysis of geographical landscape with Country level analysis of major regions.
• Competitive landscape with information on major players in the market.
• Analysis of key business strategies and recommendations on future market approach.
• Analysis of competitive structure of the market.
• Demand side and supply side analysis of the market.