PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1883007
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1883007
The global chemical/gas sterilizers market was valued at USD 1.45 billion in 2024, projected to grow to USD 1.50 billion in 2025, and expected to reach USD 2.08 billion by 2032, demonstrating steady expansion due to increasing adoption in healthcare facilities and stringent infection control measures. North America led the market in 2024 with a 48.97% share, reflecting the high prevalence of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and advanced healthcare infrastructure. Key companies such as STERIS, Getinge, Andersen Sterilizers, and Noxilizer Inc. dominate the market, focusing on new product development, strategic alliances, and global expansion.
Chemical/gas sterilizers are essential for disinfecting medical and heat-sensitive equipment by using chemical agents in gaseous form. They effectively deactivate all microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, and spores, ensuring patient safety and reducing infection risks. These sterilizers are increasingly vital in hospitals, specialty clinics, and pharmaceutical facilities, especially amid growing surgical procedures and the prevalence of HAIs.
Market Drivers
A key growth driver is the rising number of surgical procedures worldwide, which has increased the need for reliable sterilization equipment. For example, in the U.K., 27,462 cosmetic surgical procedures were performed in 2024, highlighting the demand for sterilizers to maintain aseptic conditions. The surge in minimally invasive surgeries and complex procedures further fuels the adoption of chemical/gas sterilizers to ensure reusable surgical instruments are safely disinfected.
Additionally, the burden of HAIs is prompting hospitals to invest in advanced sterilization technologies, boosting market demand. These devices provide healthcare providers with efficient and safe sterilization methods for reusable instruments, contributing to improved patient outcomes.
Market Restraints
Despite increasing adoption, the scarcity of skilled personnel in emerging countries poses a challenge to market expansion. Proper operation of chemical/gas sterilizers requires trained staff to avoid improper sterilization, which can lead to HAIs. For instance, in Australia, only 4,800 sterilization technicians were available in 2024, limiting adoption and operational efficiency in smaller healthcare facilities.
Market Opportunities
The market offers lucrative growth prospects through new product launches and technological advancements. Manufacturers are introducing alternative sterilization methods, such as nitrogen dioxide sterilizers, to overcome the limitations of ethylene oxide sterilization, including its carcinogenic potential and lengthy processing times. In April 2024, Noxilizer, Inc. inaugurated a manufacturing facility in the U.S. dedicated to nitrogen dioxide sterilization, reflecting this trend. Expanding product availability and enhancing efficiency presents significant opportunities for market players globally.
Market Challenges
High costs of chemical/gas sterilizers, especially hydrogen peroxide plasma and ethylene oxide systems, may restrain growth. These devices often require substantial initial investments and ongoing maintenance due to the corrosive nature of the chemicals used. Small private healthcare facilities and research institutions in budget-constrained regions may find it difficult to adopt such equipment, limiting market penetration.
Market Trends
The market is witnessing a shift toward nitrogen dioxide and other alternative chemical sterilizers, driven by safety and operational efficiency concerns with ethylene oxide. Simultaneously, the adoption of vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VH2O2) sterilizers is increasing, supported by regulatory endorsements, such as the U.S. FDA's 2024 consideration of VH2O2 for medical devices. This trend emphasizes innovation and adoption of safer, faster, and environmentally responsible sterilization technologies.
By product type, hydrogen peroxide sterilizers dominated the market in 2024 due to regulatory endorsements and effectiveness in sterilizing medical instruments without damaging equipment. Ethylene oxide sterilizers held the second-largest share due to their widespread use for heat-sensitive devices.
By end-user, hospitals and specialty clinics led the market in 2024, driven by HAIs and the growing volume of surgeries requiring sterile instruments. Pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers followed, with increasing adoption to meet regulatory standards and maintain product safety.
North America dominated with a market value of USD 0.71 billion in 2024, supported by high surgical volumes and advanced healthcare infrastructure. Europe ranked second, with key players introducing advanced sterilizers to meet regional standards. Asia Pacific is expected to witness the highest CAGR, driven by expanding healthcare infrastructure and increasing HAIs. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are projected to grow steadily, supported by increased adoption of endoscopy and surgical procedures requiring sterilized equipment.
Competitive Landscape
The market is competitive, with STERIS, Getinge, Andersen Sterilizers, and Noxilizer Inc. leading through product innovations, strategic alliances, and global expansions. Companies are focusing on introducing advanced sterilization technologies, enhancing efficiency, and complying with regulatory standards to strengthen market share.
Segmentation By Product Type
By End-user
By Region