When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as airplane and automobile parts to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in the 1980s as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and patient-specific models to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
Global Fluoropolymers Market Revenues to Surpass $7 Billion by 2016: Report
Fluoropolymers are used in the manufacture of a number of products that we use in our daily lives. From military clothing to cookware, fluoropolymers form an integral part of raw materials used in the manufacturing industry. The properties of fluoropolymers, especially resistance to harsh chemicals and heat, make them a preferred choice for use in many end-use industries. In addition to their conventional uses, fluoropolymers are finding applications in high-tech fields, such as igniters for solid fuel rocket propellants.
The global fluoropolymers market is expected to reach US$ 7.1 billion in 2016, up from 6.7 billion in 2015. Fluoropolymers are replacing traditional materials, such as metal, glass, and high-performance coatings. Fluoropolymers show marked durability under stress, making them an excellent choice for use in aeronautical wiring.
The automotive industry is one of the largest consumers of fluoropolymers. Although slow sales in the US and Europe have had an impact on fluoropolymers demand, steady demand from China and India, two of the fastest growing economies globally, has cushioned the impact.
Rising concerns about environmental degradation have forced manufacturers to reduce fluoride emissions. Use of Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), also known as C8, in the manufacture of fluoropolymers has come under intense scrutiny after a study found a link between PFOA exposure and certain cancers. Currently, all the leading manufacturers are focusing on producing PFOA-free fluoropolymers.
Key Application Areas of Fluoropolymers
Surging demand for fluoropolymers in the industrial electrical and semiconductor industry is a key growth factor. Various semiconductor manufacturing processes require ultra-high purity (UHP) products, and fluoropolymers offer the desired advantages. Some of the common applications of fluoropolymers in the semiconductor industry include wafer handling of carriers, piping, and fittings.
Fluoropolymer resins are excellent insulation agents, making them an appealing choice for use in printed circuit boards (PCB). Fluoropolymers absorb lesser moisture, providing stability to PCB during variations of conductivity. The demand for fluoropolymers from the electrical and semiconductor industry is expected to reach 74.8 thousand MT by 2016, up from 71.5 thousand MT in 2015.
Key Regions
Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ) and North America are the two largest markets for fluoropolymers. Growth in the electrical, semiconductor, and industrial processing sectors in these regions is a key factor for the high demand for fluoropolymers.
The APEJ fluoropolymer market is dominated by China and India, where decades of sustained growth has led to the emergence of a strong middle class. China accounts for over half of the total demand in APEJ, while India’s share is a substantial 20.3%. Among all the fluoropolymer resins, demand for PTFE is the highest in APEJ. Overall, the APEJ fluoropolymer market is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 2.9 billion in 2016, up from 2.7 billion in 2015.
The fluoropolymer market in North America is expected to reach US$ 1.5 billion in 2016. The US accounts for over 80% of share of the North America fluoropolymers market. Industrial processing accounts for the bulk of the demand for fluoropolymers in North America. Use of fluoropolymers in the electrical and semiconductor industry is expected to stay steady, expanding at a CAGR of over 5% between 2015 and 2025.
Author bio: Essien Jae is Lead Consultant, Chemicals Dept. at Future Market Insights (FMI), a global research and consultancy firm. The information presented in this article is based on the Fluoropolymer Market report compiled by him.
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