Carbon Fiber Market Size, Trends | Industry Analysis

🚀 Carbon Fiber: No Longer Just a Space Age Material 🌍

Carbon fiber, alternatively known as graphite fiber, is an extremely strong, stiff, and light polymer, making it an ideal material for superior building applications. Initially introduced as a structural material, it has swiftly impressed end users with its unique properties. The strongest of carbon fibers is ten times stronger and five times lighter than steel, and compared to aluminum, it is eight times stronger and 1.5 times lighter.

Rising Popularity Across Industries

In recent years, carbon fibers have seen increased popularity due to their high performance in various applications such as aircraft, supercars, yachts, and sporting and leisure goods. Notably, companies have begun developing 3D printing filament made of carbon fiber, facilitating the creation of unique composites for specialized applications. For instance, in 2020, MakerBot launched METHOD, a 3D printer capable of printing carbon fiber reinforced with nylon for industrial use.

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Dominates as the Most Common Precursor

In 2018, the demand for carbon fiber was estimated at around 100,000 metric tons. The production processes of carbon fibers remain highly guarded secrets among manufacturers, each developing unique processing techniques and characteristics. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) is the most common precursor, accounting for approximately 90% of total carbon fiber production. PAN is derived from acrylonitrile, which in turn is produced from propylene and ammonia. The fibers are formed through two conventional processes: wet spinning and dry-wet spinning.