Global Engineering Plastics Market Is Estimated To Witness High Growth Owing To Increasing Demand for Lightweight and Durable Materials
The global Engineering Plastics Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 115.0 billion in 2021 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.6% over the forecast period 2022-2030.
A) Market Overview:
Engineering plastics are a group of lightweight and durable materials that offer excellent mechanical and thermal properties. They are widely used in various industries such as automotive, electrical & electronics, consumer goods, and construction. Engineering plastics find applications in components such as gears, bearings, connectors, switches, and housings. These materials have gained significant popularity due to their high strength, low weight, and resistance to chemicals and heat.
B) Market Dynamics:
The market for engineering plastics is driven by two main factors: increasing demand for lightweight materials and growing applications in the automotive industry. With the rising concerns over fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability, industries are increasingly shifting towards lightweight materials. Engineering plastics offer the advantage of reducing the weight of components without compromising on strength or performance. This is particularly important in the automotive industry, where lightweight materials can improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Moreover, the automotive industry is witnessing a rapid transition towards electric vehicles (EVs). EVs require lightweight materials to maximize their range and efficiency. Engineering plastics are being increasingly used in EV components such as battery casings, connectors, and interior parts. This growing adoption of engineering plastics in the automotive sector is expected to drive market growth.
C) Market Key Trends:
One key trend in the Engineering Plastics Market is the increasing focus on sustainable materials. As environmental concerns continue to rise, manufacturers are developing bio-based and recyclable engineering plastics. These materials offer similar performance characteristics as traditional engineering plastics but have a lower carbon footprint. For example, companies like DSM and BASF are investing in the development of bio-based engineering plastics derived from renewable sources such as plant-based feedstock. This trend aligns with the growing demand for sustainable solutions in various industries.
D) SWOT Analysis:
Strength:
High strength-to-weight ratio
Resistance to chemicals and heat
Weakness:
Higher cost compared to traditional materials
Limited thermal stability in some applications
Opportunity:
Growing demand for electric vehicles
Increasing applications in the healthcare industry
Threats:
Fluctuating raw material prices
Stringent regulations regarding emissions and recyclability
E) Key Takeaways:
– The global engineering plastics market is expected to witness high growth, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.6% over the forecast period, due to increasing demand for lightweight materials and their applications in the automotive industry.
– Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing and dominating region in the engineering plastics market, driven by the growth of automotive, electrical & electronics, and consumer goods industries in countries like China and India.
– Key players operating in the global engineering plastics market include Arkema Group, Asahi Kasei Corporation, BASF SE, Celanese Corporation, Covestro, DSM N.V., Dupont, Lanxess, LG Chem., Mitsubishi Engineering-Plastics Corporation, Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Sabic), Solvay SA, Teijin, Toray, and Victrex Plc. These companies are focusing on research and development activities to introduce innovative products and expand their market presence.
In conclusion, the global engineering plastics market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for lightweight and durable materials. The market is driven by the automotive industry’s shift towards lightweight components and the development of sustainable materials. With advancements in technology and growing applications in various industries, engineering plastics are expected to play a crucial role in the future of material science.