A laboratory gas generator is an instrument that continuously supplies a specific gas to devices like a gas chromatograph, GC-MS, FTIR, an ion mobility spectrometer, a gas analyzer, an environmental chamber, or other devices that need clean, dry gas. Laboratory gas generators are used for chromatography and mass spectroscopy in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. These generators are also utilized in the food and beverage and industrial, electrical, and electronic sectors. The worldwide laboratory gas generators market was worth $0.39 billion in 2021 and will reach $ 1.32 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 14.2% during 2021-2030. 

The increased demand for laboratory equipment automation, the increased demand for hydrogen gas as an alternative to helium, the adoption of newer technologies, the increase in R&D investments and the growing relevance of analytical methods in drug and food approval processes are stimulating the growth of the market.

Key industry drivers

Due to the helium shortage, there is an increase in demand for laboratory hydrogen gas generators, stimulating market growth. Instrument manufacturers have benefited greatly from gas generation equipment producers seeking to increase the production of hydrogen generators. According to an IEA analysis published in October 2021, the demand for hydrogen in 2020 is forecast to be 88.48 metric tonnes, with a projected increase to 210.56 metric tonnes.

Furthermore, the overall R&D efforts in life sciences, chemical and petrochemical, and food and beverages are increasing significantly, with a rising emphasis on discovering and providing effective solutions. These factors are boosting the expansion of the market.

Restraints

Less utilization of laboratory gas generators in emerging nations such as the Asia Pacific compared to developed countries such as North America is likely to hamper the expansion of the laboratory gas generator market.

Another factor projected to impede the global laboratory gas generator market growth is the high cost associated with laboratory gas generators due to their premium service capabilities. For example, a high-flow nitrogen generator costs $5,000 to $10,000, whereas a wild-flow nitrogen generator costs $10,000 to $30,000.

Market Segmentation

  • By type, the laboratory gas generator is segmented into compressed air gas generators, TOC gas generators, purge gas generators, zero air-gas generators, hydrogen gas generators, nitrogen gas generators, and other gas generators.

The hydrogen gas generator held a significant position in the overall market with a consistent CAGR during the forecast period. Increasing preference for hydrogen as cost-effective alternative over helium because it provides faster analysis and optimal results is stimulating the growth of this segmnent market. According to the IEA, the demand for hydrogen gas is approximately 88.48 metric tonnes, with industries accounting for 51.30 metric tonnes and refineries accounting for 37.18 metric tonnes.

  • On the basis of application, the market is segmented into gas analyzers, flame photometric detectors, gas chromatography, flame ionization detectors, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and others.

In 2020 gas chromatography ruled the overall laboratory gas generator market owing to the increasing adoption of hydrogen over helium. Gas chromatography also provides benefits like dependability, safety, extended intermission, and the elimination of dangerous traditional cylinders, which are driving the total expansion of this industry. According to American Chemical Society research, the cost of helium has climbed 250% in the previous several years due to overuse and a shortage in many places.

  • In terms of end-user, the market is segmented into the food & beverage industry, life science industry, chemical & petrochemical industry, and others. 

In 2020, the life science industry segment held the largest industry share. Factors such as increased drug research activities, rising demand for laboratory analytical instruments, and drug discovery laws accelerate the segment's overall growth.

  • Regionally, the laboratory gas generator market is segmented into Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA.

North America Ruled the overall market in 2020. The largest share in North America is due to increased R&D spending in the United States and Canada, which resulted in stronger demand for efficient and modern laboratory equipment.

The Asia Pacific market will grow rapidly in the next years. Factors such as the increased demand in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and related industries and government initiatives for research funding will stimulate the growth of this region's market.

Major Players

  • Parker Hannifin Corporation
  • Apex Gasgen
  • Leman Instruments
  • PeakGas
  • Angstrom Advanced Inc.
  • LNI Swissgas Srl
  • Texol Technical Solutions Plc
  • Other Players