Azodicarbonamide is mainly used as a blowing agent in foamed plastics and rubber production. Its ability to liberate nitrogen gas upon decomposition at elevated temperatures makes it valuable in expanding and creating cellular structures within materials like bread, yoga mats, and shoe soles. The demand for this chemical in the market is also fueled by the growing need for lightweight and versatile materials in industries such as packaging, construction, and automotive.
In the second half of 2023, azodicarbonamide prices experienced notable fluctuations across different regions. In Asia, prices initially surged due to increased demand from the rubber industry but later depreciated in the fourth quarter due to a rise in trade challenges and a slowing down of industrial activities. Similarly, in Europe and North America, prices followed a downward trajectory throughout the period due to high inventories and reduced industrial demand.
The azodicarbonamide prices steadily declined as the loss of exports from Asian countries to Europe triggered by the ongoing Israel-Hamas crisis and accelerating inflationary pressure on the market fundamentals resulted in the rise in domestic stockpiles. The traders thus had to assert de-stocking practices in view of limited demand by offering discounts on bulk purchases that resulted in the southward trajectory of the azodicarbonamide price trend.