Global Polymer Binder Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Growth by Type (Acrylic, Vinyl Acetate, Latex, Polyurethane, Polyester, Others), by Form (Powder, Liquid, High Solids), by Application, by Region and Forecast to 2030

Report ID: RC158564 | Report Format: PDF + Excel | Starting Price: 3800/- USD |

Key Findings:

  • The market is experiencing a significant growth rate of over 7.5% over the forecast period to 2030
  • By type, the vinyl acetate segment is accounted to hold the largest revenue share of around 40% of market share in 2023
  • Geographically, the Asia Pacific is accounted to hold the largest market share in the benchmark year 2023

The global polymer binder market is anticipated to experience a significant CAGR of over 7.5% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2030. The market is primarily driven by the increasing demand for advanced materials in various industries, including construction, automotive, and packaging. The growth of the construction sector, with its rising need for durable and high-performance coatings, adhesives, and sealants, fuels the demand for polymer binders. Additionally, the automotive industry’s focus on lightweight and fuel-efficient vehicles drives the need for polymer-based composites and coatings that enhance performance and durability.

Another significant factor is the rising awareness of environmental sustainability. There is a growing shift towards eco-friendly and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) polymer binders, driven by stringent environmental regulations and consumer preferences for greener products. This trend is encouraging innovation in polymer binder formulations, leading to the development of more sustainable and high-performance solutions that cater to both regulatory requirements and market demands.

Market Snapshot:

Benchmark Year 2023
Market Size lock
Market Growth (CAGR) > 7.5% (2024 – 2030)
Largest Market Share Asia Pacific
Analysis Period 2020-2030
Market Players BASF SE, Wacker Chemie AG, OMNOVA Solutions Inc., Celanese Corporation, Arkema, and Dairen Chemical Corporation

To know more about the research study, request sample papers

Market Trends:

Sustainability Focus: The polymer binder industry is witnessing a significant shift towards sustainability. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on creating eco-friendly and biodegradable binder solutions due to rising environmental concerns and stringent regulations. The development of low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and water-based formulations is a direct response to these pressures. These sustainable alternatives not only help reduce the environmental impact but also align with the growing consumer demand for greener products. The emphasis on sustainability is driving innovation and investment in cleaner production processes and materials.

Technological Advancements: Technological innovation is a major trend shaping the polymer binder market. Advances in polymer chemistry have led to the development of binders with superior properties such as enhanced adhesion, flexibility, and durability. The incorporation of nanotechnology and the development of advanced polymer composites are expanding the functional capabilities of binders. These technological improvements are enabling the creation of high-performance binders that can meet the rigorous demands of various applications, from industrial coatings to specialty adhesives.

Rising Demand in Emerging Markets: Emerging economies, particularly in regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America, are experiencing robust growth in infrastructure and industrial activities. This economic expansion is driving increased demand for polymer binders in construction, manufacturing, and other sectors. Urbanization and the proliferation of large-scale construction projects are particularly influential in boosting the market for polymer binders in these regions. The burgeoning industrial base and rising standards of living are creating new opportunities for binder applications and driving market growth.

Customization and Specialty Applications: The market is also seeing a trend towards more customized and specialty polymer binders. This trend is driven by the need for binders that cater to specific applications and industries. For instance, automotive manufacturers require binders with particular characteristics to enhance vehicle performance and durability. Similarly, electronics and textile industries demand binders that offer unique properties such as heat resistance or flexibility. The growing need for specialized solutions is leading to the development of custom formulations tailored to the precise requirements of various industries, thereby expanding the scope and applications of polymer binders.

Market Opportunities:

The global polymer binder market offers substantial opportunities driven by the rapid growth in construction and infrastructure development, particularly in emerging economies. As urbanization accelerates and new infrastructure projects take shape, there is increasing demand for high-performance binders in coatings, adhesives, and sealants. Additionally, the shift towards sustainable materials presents opportunities for innovation in eco-friendly binder solutions. The rise of advanced technologies such as nanotechnology opens new avenues for developing high-performance, specialty binders with enhanced properties for diverse applications. Furthermore, the expanding automotive and electronics sectors offer potential for custom binder solutions tailored to specific industry needs, providing avenues for market growth and diversification.

Market Restraints:

The polymer binder market faces several restraining factors, including the high cost of advanced raw materials and technologies. The development of high-performance and eco-friendly binders often involves expensive materials and complex manufacturing processes, which can limit market accessibility and adoption, especially in price-sensitive regions. Additionally, fluctuating raw material prices and supply chain disruptions can impact production costs and stability. Regulatory challenges, such as stringent environmental regulations and compliance requirements, also pose barriers to market growth. Furthermore, the competitive landscape, with numerous players offering similar products, can lead to price pressures and margin erosion, affecting profitability for manufacturers.

Market Insights:

The global polymer binder market is bifurcated into type, form, application, and geography. On the basis of type, the market is further segmented into acrylic, vinyl acetate, latex, polyurethane, polyester, and others. The vinyl acetate segment dominated the global market and accounted to hold the largest revenue share of around 1/3 market share in 2023. Vinyl acetate binders are known for their strong adhesive properties and flexibility, which make them highly effective in a variety of applications. These binders are widely used in adhesives, sealants, and coatings due to their ability to form robust bonds and maintain flexibility over time. This versatility makes them a preferred choice in industries such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing, where reliable adhesion and durability are critical.

Additionally, the dominance of Vinyl Acetate binders is supported by their cost-effectiveness and performance in water-based formulations. Their formulation allows for easy application and effective performance in diverse environments, meeting the needs of both consumer and industrial markets. As the demand for high-performance and adaptable binder solutions grows, Vinyl Acetate continues to lead due to its proven capabilities and broad applicability across various sectors.

Key Trends for Vinyl Acetate:

  • Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Formulations: There is a growing emphasis on developing low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and water-based formulations within the Vinyl Acetate segment. This trend aligns with increasing regulatory pressures and consumer preferences for environmentally friendly products, driving innovation towards more sustainable vinyl acetate solutions.
  • Technological Advancements: Advances in polymer chemistry and formulation technologies are enhancing the performance characteristics of Vinyl Acetate binders. Improvements in adhesion, flexibility, and durability are expanding their applications and making them more suitable for demanding environments.

Market Opportunities for Vinyl Acetate:

  • Expansion in Emerging Markets: Rapid industrialization and infrastructure development in emerging economies present significant growth opportunities for Vinyl Acetate binders. As construction and manufacturing activities increase, the demand for effective adhesives, coatings, and sealants using Vinyl Acetate is expected to rise.
  • Growth in the Adhesives and Sealants Market: Vinyl Acetate binders have substantial opportunities in the adhesives and sealants market, driven by their strong adhesive properties and flexibility. The expanding use of adhesives in various applications, including packaging and construction, provides a growing market for Vinyl Acetate-based solutions.

The polymer binder market research report presents the analysis of each segment from 2020 to 2030 considering 2023 as the base year for the research. The compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) for each respective segment is calculated for the forecast period from 2024 to 2030.

Historical & Forecast Period

  • 2020-22 – Historical Year
  • 2023 – Base Year
  • 2024-2030 – Forecast Period

Market Segmentation:

By Type:

  • Acrylic
  • Vinyl Acetate
  • Latex
  • Polyurethane
  • Polyester
  • Others

By Form:

  • Powder
  • Liquid
  • High Solids

By Application:

  • Paints & Coatings
  • Adhesives
  • Textiles
  • Construction
  • Others

By Region:

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Latin America
  • Middle East & Africa

Regional Analysis:

Geographically, in the global polymer binder market, the Asia Pacific region is the dominant region with the largest market share of around 40% market. This dominance is driven by the rapid industrialization and urbanization occurring across several key economies in the region, including China, India, and Southeast Asian countries. The significant growth in construction and infrastructure development in these emerging markets is a major factor contributing to the high demand for polymer binders. The region’s booming automotive and manufacturing sectors further amplify the need for high-performance binders in coatings, adhesives, and sealants.

Additionally, the Asia Pacific region benefits from a robust and cost-effective manufacturing base, which supports the production and supply of polymer binders at competitive prices. The presence of numerous local and international players in the region ensures a dynamic and competitive market environment. Coupled with favorable economic policies and investments in infrastructure, the Asia Pacific region’s strategic importance and growth trajectory continue to reinforce its position as the leading market for polymer binders globally.

On the other hand, North America is experiencing significant growth driven by several key factors. The region’s advanced industrial infrastructure and strong focus on technological innovation support the development and adoption of high-performance polymer binders. Industries such as construction, automotive, and packaging, which are major consumers of polymer binders, are growing due to increased infrastructure investments and the demand for high-quality materials. This growth is further fueled by North America’s emphasis on developing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable solutions, which are driving the demand for advanced binder formulations.

Additionally, the North American market benefits from a robust regulatory environment that encourages innovation and ensures high product standards. The region’s manufacturers are investing in research and development to produce innovative and eco-friendly binder solutions that meet stringent environmental regulations. This commitment to sustainability and technological advancement, coupled with a strong manufacturing base and a diverse range of applications, positions North America as a growing and dynamic player in the global polymer binder market.

Competitive Landscape:

Some of the leading market players operating in the global polymer binder market are BASF SE, Wacker Chemie AG, OMNOVA Solutions Inc., Celanese Corporation, Arkema, and Dairen Chemical Corporation. Companies are exploring markets by expansion, new investment, the introduction of new services, and collaboration as their preferred strategies. Players are exploring new geography through expansion and acquisition to gain a competitive advantage through joint synergy.

Recent Development:

  • In December 2024, Trinseo introduced the LIGOS BH 7340 SCE Binder, a biodegradable bio-hybrid binder designed for coated paperboard products. This innovative binder has the potential to replace a significant portion of synthetic binders in coatings. The LIGOS BH 7340 SCE binder provides performance characteristics comparable to traditional paper or paperboard coatings that use synthetic binders, including excellent coater runnability, strong cohesive coating strength, and effective glueability.
  • In December 2023, the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering developed a novel binder technique aimed at enhancing battery performance. The new method focuses on producing high-electrical conductivity polymer binders from readily available materials, with the goal of significantly improving the performance of silicon cathode-based secondary batteries.

Key Companies:

  • BASF SE
  • Wacker Chemie AG
  • OMNOVA Solutions Inc.
  • Celanese Corporation
  • Arkema
  • Dairen Chemical Corporation
  • Toagosei Co. Ltd.
  • Guangdong Yinyang Environment-Friendly New Materials Co., Ltd.
  • Weifang Tainuo Chemical Co., Ltd.
  • Mayfair Biotech Pvt. Ltd.
  • VINAVIL S.p.A.
  • The Lubrizol Corporation

Key Questions Answered by Polymer Binder Market Report

  • Global polymer binder market forecasts from 2024-2030
  • Regional market forecasts from 2024-2030 covering Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America
  • Country-level forecasts from 2024-2030 covering 15 major countries from the regions as mentioned above
  • Polymer binder submarket forecasts from 2024-2030 covering the market by type, form, application, and geography
  • Various industry models such as SWOT analysis, Value Chain Analysis about the market
  • Analysis of the key factors driving and restraining the growth of the global, regional, and country-level polymer binder markets from 2024-2030
  • Competitive Landscape and market positioning of top 10 players operating in the market
Table of Contents:

1. Preface


1.1. Report Description
1.1.1. Purpose of the Report
1.1.2. Target Audience
1.1.3. USP and Key Offerings
1.2. Research Scope
1.3. Research Methodology
1.3.1. Phase I – Secondary Research
1.3.2. Phase II – Primary Research
1.3.3. Phase III – Expert Panel Review
1.4. Assumptions

 

2. Executive Summary


2.1. Global Polymer Binder Market Portraiture
2.2. Global Polymer Binder Market, by Type, 2023 (USD Mn)
2.3. Global Polymer Binder Market, by Form, 2023 (USD Mn)
2.4. Global Polymer Binder Market, by Application, 2023 (USD Mn)
2.5. Global Polymer Binder Market, by Geography, 2023 (USD Mn)

 

3. Global Polymer Binder Market Analysis


3.1. Polymer Binder Market Overview
3.2. Market Inclination Insights
3.3. Market Dynamics
3.3.1. Drivers
3.3.2. Challenges
3.3.3. Opportunities
3.4. Market Trends
3.5. Attractive Investment Proposition
3.6. Competitive Analysis
3.7. Porter’s Five Force Analysis
3.7.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
3.7.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
3.7.3. Threat of New Entrants
3.7.4. Threat of Substitutes
3.7.5. Degree of Competition
3.8. PESTLE Analysis

 

4. Global Polymer Binder Market by Type, 2020 – 2030 (USD Mn)


4.1. Overview
4.2. Acrylic
4.3. Vinyl Acetate
4.4. Latex
4.5. Polyurethane
4.6. Polyester
4.7. Others

 

5. Global Polymer Binder Market by Form, 2020 – 2030 (USD Mn)


5.1. Overview
5.2. Powder
5.3. Liquid
5.4. High Solids

 

6. Global Polymer Binder Market by Application, 2020 – 2030 (USD Mn)


6.1. Overview
6.2. Paints & Coatings
6.3. Adhesives
6.4. Textiles
6.5. Construction
6.6. Others

 

7. North America Polymer Binder Market Analysis and Forecast, 2020 – 2030 (USD Mn)


7.1. Overview
7.2. North America Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.3. North America Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.4. North America Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5. North America Polymer Binder Market by Country, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.1. U.S.
7.5.1.1. U.S. Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.1.2. U.S. Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.1.3. U.S. Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.2. Canada
7.5.2.1. Canada Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.2.2. Canada Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.2.3. Canada Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.3. Mexico
7.5.3.1. Mexico Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.3.2. Mexico Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
7.5.3.3. Mexico Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)

 

8. Europe Polymer Binder Market Analysis and Forecast, 2020 - 2030 (USD Mn)


8.1. Overview
8.2. Europe Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.3. Europe Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.4. Europe Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5. Europe Polymer Binder Market by Country, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.1. Germany
8.5.1.1. Germany Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.1.2. Germany Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.1.3. Germany Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.2. U.K.
8.5.2.1. U.K. Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.2.2. U.K. Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.2.3. U.K. Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.3. France
8.5.3.1. France Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.3.2. France Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.3.3. France Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.4. Spain
8.5.4.1. Spain Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.4.2. Spain Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.4.3. Spain Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.5. Italy
8.5.5.1. Italy Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.5.2. Italy Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.5.3. Italy Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.6. Rest of Europe
8.5.6.1. Rest of Europe Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.6.2. Rest of Europe Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
8.5.6.3. Rest of Europe Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)

 

9. Asia Pacific Polymer Binder Market Analysis and Forecast, 2020 - 2030 (USD Mn)


9.1. Overview
9.2. Asia Pacific Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.3. Asia Pacific Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.4. Asia Pacific Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5. Asia Pacific Polymer Binder Market by Country, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.1. China
9.5.1.1. China Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.1.2. China Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.1.3. China Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.2. Japan
9.5.2.1. Japan Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.2.2. Japan Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.2.3. Japan Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.3. India
9.5.3.1. India Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.3.2. India Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.3.3. India Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.4. South Korea
9.5.4.1. South Korea Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.4.2. South Korea Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.4.3. South Korea Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.5. Rest of Asia Pacific
9.5.5.1. Rest of Asia Pacific Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.5.2. Rest of Asia Pacific Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
9.5.5.3. Rest of Asia Pacific Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)

 

10. Latin America (LATAM) Polymer Binder Market Analysis and Forecast, 2020 - 2030 (USD Mn)


10.1. Overview
10.2. Latin America Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.3. Latin America Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.4. Latin America Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5. Latin America Polymer Binder Market by Country, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.1. Brazil
10.5.1.1. Brazil Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.1.2. Brazil Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.1.3. Brazil Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.2. Argentina
10.5.2.1. Argentina Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.2.2. Argentina Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.2.3. Argentina Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.3. Rest of Latin America
10.5.3.1. Rest of Latin America Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.3.2. Rest of Latin America Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
10.5.3.3. Rest of Latin America Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)

 

11. Middle East and Africa Polymer Binder Market Analysis and Forecast, 2020 - 2030 (USD Mn)


11.1. Overview
11.2. MEA Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.3. MEA Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.4. MEA Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5. Middle East and Africa Polymer Binder Market, by Country, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.1. GCC
11.5.1.1. GCC Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.1.2. GCC Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.1.3. GCC Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.2. South Africa
11.5.2.1. South Africa Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.2.2. South Africa Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.2.3. South Africa Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.3. Rest of MEA
11.5.3.1. Rest of MEA Polymer Binder Market by Type, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.3.2. Rest of MEA Polymer Binder Market by Form, (2020-2030 USD Mn)
11.5.3.3. Rest of MEA Polymer Binder Market by Application, (2020-2030 USD Mn)

 

12. Competitive Landscape


12.1. Company Market Share Analysis, 2023
12.2. Competitive Dashboard
12.3. Competitive Benchmarking
12.4. Geographic Presence Heatmap Analysis
12.5. Company Evolution Matrix
12.5.1. Star
12.5.2. Pervasive
12.5.3. Emerging Leader
12.5.4. Participant
12.6. Strategic Analysis Heatmap Analysis
12.7. Key Developments and Growth Strategies
12.7.1. Mergers and Acquisitions
12.7.2. New Product Launch
12.7.3. Joint Ventures
12.7.4. Others

 

13. Company Profiles


13.1. BASF SE
13.1.1. Business Description
13.1.2. Financial Health and Budget Allocation
13.1.3. Product Positions/Portfolio
13.1.4. Recent Development
13.1.5. SWOT Analysis
13.2. Wacker Chemie AG
13.3. OMNOVA Solutions Inc.
13.4. Celanese Corporation
13.5. Arkema
13.6. Dairen Chemical Corporation
13.7. Toagosei Co. Ltd.
13.8. Guangdong Yinyang Environment-Friendly New Materials Co., Ltd.
13.9. Weifang Tainuo Chemical Co., Ltd.
13.10. Mayfair Biotech Pvt. Ltd.
13.11. VINAVIL S.p.A.
13.12. The Lubrizol Corporation
Fill the given form to inquiry before buying for Global Polymer Binder Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Growth by Type (Acrylic, Vinyl Acetate, Latex, Polyurethane, Polyester, Others), by Form (Powder, Liquid, High Solids), by Application, by Region and Forecast to 2030 Market Report

(Additional country analysis and conmapny analysis will be added according to the request, we provide free report customization)
(Report covers the impact of COVID-19 on the market)

Request Report Sample
Inquiry Before Buying
Schedule a Call


Select License Type
$ 3800/- Single User License
$ 5200/- Multi User License
$ 6995/- Corporate License

Paypal Certified Payment
For Any Assitance

Email: sales@researchcorridor.com
Why To Choose Us:
  • Markets in over 100+ countries analyzed granularly
  • 35% of our total client are returning clients
  • 1000+ customers globally
  • 100+ paid data sources mined to bring cutting-edge insights
  • 24x5 availability - we are always there when you need us
  • "Free of Cost Report Customization" is available
  • Request a regional report at Best Price

Impacts of COVID-19
COVID-19 Impact on the Global Polymer Binder Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Growth by Type (Acrylic, Vinyl Acetate, Latex, Polyurethane, Polyester, Others), by Form (Powder, Liquid, High Solids), by Application, by Region and Forecast to 2030 Market

Get in Touch

For any coustomized project, contact us here:


Our Clients