PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1930150
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1930150
The global chemical/gas sterilizers market is witnessing steady growth, driven by increasing concerns over infection control and the rising burden of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). The market was valued at USD 1.50 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 1.57 billion in 2026, reaching USD 2.32 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.04% during the forecast period. North America dominated the market with a 49.25% share in 2025, supported by advanced healthcare infrastructure and strict sterilization standards.
Chemical/gas sterilizers use gaseous chemical agents such as hydrogen peroxide, ethylene oxide, and nitrogen dioxide to eliminate microorganisms from heat-sensitive medical devices. These systems are extensively used in hospitals, specialty clinics, and medical device manufacturing facilities.
Market Dynamics
Market Drivers
The increasing number of surgical procedures worldwide is a primary driver of the chemical/gas sterilizers market. Sterilization of reusable surgical instruments is critical to ensure patient safety and prevent postoperative infections.
For instance, according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (April 2025), 27,462 cosmetic surgeries were performed in the U.K. in 2024. Additionally, the rising prevalence of HAIs has compelled healthcare facilities to enforce stringent sterilization protocols, boosting demand for chemical/gas sterilizers.
Market Restraints
A key restraint affecting market growth is the lack of skilled sterilization professionals, particularly in emerging economies. Improper handling and non-adherence to device instructions can result in ineffective sterilization.
For example, data published by the Australian Government (February 2025) indicated that Australia had only 4,800 sterilization technicians in 2024, highlighting workforce shortages that may limit adoption of advanced sterilization technologies.
Market Opportunities
The increasing number of product launches and capacity expansions by key players presents strong growth opportunities. Companies are introducing advanced sterilizers with improved efficiency and safety features to address rising HAI concerns.
For instance, in April 2022, Andersen Sterilizers launched Anprolene AN75, a significantly upgraded ethylene oxide sterilizer. Strategic collaborations, acquisitions, and geographic expansions by market leaders are expected to further enhance global device penetration.
Market Challenges
The high cost of chemical/gas sterilizers, especially hydrogen peroxide plasma systems, remains a major challenge. These systems involve high capital investment and ongoing maintenance expenses.
According to a West China Hospital study (April 2024), hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization is among the most expensive sterilization methods, limiting adoption in small healthcare facilities and resource-constrained regions.
Chemical/Gas Sterilizers Market Trends
A prominent trend is the shift toward nitrogen dioxide sterilization, driven by safety and efficiency concerns associated with ethylene oxide. Nitrogen dioxide offers faster sterilization cycles and reduced carcinogenic risks.
In April 2024, Noxilizer, Inc. opened a new manufacturing facility in the U.S. dedicated to nitrogen dioxide sterilization equipment, reflecting this evolving preference.
Impact of COVID-19
The market experienced positive growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by heightened demand for sterilization of medical tools and personal protective equipment. Government mandates and strict infection control protocols significantly boosted sales of chemical/gas sterilizers, a trend that continues post-pandemic.
By product type, hydrogen peroxide sterilizers dominated the market in 2024 due to strong regulatory recommendations. Ethylene oxide sterilizers held the second-largest share owing to their wide applicability for heat-sensitive devices.
By end-user, hospitals & specialty clinics accounted for the largest share in 2024, driven by the rising incidence of HAIs. Pharmaceutical & medical device manufacturers followed, supported by stringent sterilization regulations and increasing R&D investments.
North America led the market with a valuation of USD 0.74 billion in 2025 and USD 0.77 billion in 2026, supported by high surgical volumes and strong awareness initiatives.
Europe held the second-largest share due to frequent product launches.
Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR, driven by manufacturing expansions in India and rising HAI incidence.
Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are projected to witness moderate growth due to increasing infection control initiatives.
Competitive Landscape
The market is led by STERIS and Getinge, supported by strong global manufacturing networks. Other players such as Andersen Sterilizers, Noxilizer Inc., Stryker, and DE LAMA S.P.A. focus on product innovation and strategic alliances to expand market reach.
Conclusion
The global chemical/gas sterilizers market is set to grow steadily through 2034, driven by rising surgical volumes, increasing hospital-acquired infections, and strict infection control regulations. While high device costs and workforce shortages pose challenges, growing adoption of advanced sterilization technologies, rising preference for nitrogen dioxide systems, and continuous product innovation by key players are expected to support market expansion. With North America maintaining dominance and Asia Pacific emerging as a high-growth region, the chemical/gas sterilizers market is well-positioned to play a crucial role in enhancing patient safety and healthcare quality worldwide.
Segmentation By Product Type
By End-user
By Region