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Ethylene Carbonate (EC) is a high-purity cyclic carbonate ester synthesized from ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide, tying its cost closely to petrochemical feedstock cycles. Its leading end-use is as a solvent and electrolyte component in lithium-ion batteries powering EVs and portable electronics, with further demand from pharmaceuticals, coatings, and industrial solvents.
Entering H1 2026, EC markets carried forward the bearish momentum from late 2025, as feedstock ethylene oxide remained abundant across major producing regions. In Asia, prior capacity expansions by Chinese producers kept the oversupply environment intact into early 2026. Downstream battery electrolyte demand showed a gradual recovery as EV sales in China and South Korea regained momentum, providing some floor to sentiment though not enough to reverse the prevailing softness. European markets reflected a similarly muted tone, while North American prices moved in sympathy with the global softening.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, EC prices should stay range-bound to softly declining, hinging on ethylene oxide supply normalization.
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Asia
In Asia, Ethylene Carbonate prices showed a weak to declining trend during the second half of 2025. The market was mainly pressured by abundant availability of feedstock ethylene oxide, especially in China, where multiple new EO units came online during the year. High operating rates and fresh capacities increased overall supply, while downstream demand from battery electrolytes and solvents remained steady but not strong enough to absorb the excess material. The slowdown in construction and surfactant based sectors indirectly reduced EO consumption, which further softened cost support for Ethylene Carbonate.
Europe
In Europe, Ethylene Carbonate prices stayed relatively stable compared to Asia but still were slightly bearish in H2’25. Supply remained balanced as producers maintained controlled operating rates, and no major production disruptions were reported. Feedstock ethylene oxide costs softened due to lower upstream energy prices, which limited any upward price movement. Demand from battery materials and specialty chemical applications stayed consistent, but broader industrial activity remained slow. This balance between stable demand and easing cost pressure kept price movements narrow, with sellers facing resistance when attempting to increase offers.
North America
In North America, Ethylene Carbonate prices weakened during H2’25. Lower ethylene oxide production costs, driven by declining ethylene and energy prices, reduced cost pressure for producers. Supply chains remained well managed, and availability stayed sufficient across the region. Demand from energy storage, cleaning chemicals, and specialty solvents was steady but showed no strong growth momentum. As a result, the prices were under mild downward pressure.
Ethylene carbonate is a colorless, odorless cyclic ester derived from ethylene glycol and carbonic acid. This compound finds its applications in the manufacturing of numerous industrial products such as lithium-ion batteries, capacitors, and other related electronic devices. Its high dielectric constant, low viscosity, and stability make it valuable for enhancing the performance and reliability of energy storage systems. Its antimicrobial properties make it valuable in preserving quality and safety in both food and feed industries.
C3H4O3
Lithium-ion batteries, Capacitors, Gas separation, Pharmaceuticals, Paints and coatings
1,3-Dioxolan-2-one, Ethylene glycol carbonate
BASF SE, Huntsman International LLC, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, TOAGOSEI Co Ltd, Asahi Kasei Corporation, New Japan Chemical Co Ltd, Tokyo Chemical Industry Co Ltd
CurrencyUS$ (Data can also be provided in local currency)
Supplier Database AvailabilityYes
Customization ScopeThe report can be customized as per the requirements of the customer
Post-Sale Analyst Support360-degree analyst support after report delivery
Note: Our supplier search experts can assist your procurement teams in compiling and validating a list of suppliers indicating they have products, services, and capabilities that meet your company's needs.
The reaction of carbon dioxide and ethylene oxide in presence of a preheated strong basic anion exchanger gives ethylene carbonate as the final product.
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