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The carbon fiber prepreg market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.35 billion at a CAGR of 7.38% between 2023 and 2028. The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing adoption of carbon fibers in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, wind energy, and military and surveillance. The rising demand for high-performance cars and electric vehicles (EVs) is driving the market, as carbon fiber prepregs offer lightweight and strong materials for manufacturing. In the aerospace sector, the use of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is increasing, leading to a growth in demand for carbon fiber prepregs for their lightweight and high-strength properties. In the wind power industry, the expansion of wind farms is fueling the market, as carbon fiber prepregs are used to manufacture wind turbine blades. Furthermore, the use of thermoplastic resins such as PEEK in carbon fiber prepregs is gaining popularity due to their superior mechanical properties and ease of processing. However, the high cost associated with carbon composites remains a challenge for the market, limiting their widespread adoption in mass-market applications. Additionally, the use of alternative fibers like glass fibers and aramid fibers in composite materials is a potential threat to market growth.
Carbon fiber prepreg, a composite material made up of carbon fiber reinforcements and a polymer resin system, offers significant mechanical advantages over traditional materials. The prepreg process involves the pre-impregnation of fibers with resin, allowing for easier handling and manufacturing. This results in components with exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness, and longevity. Carbon fiber prepreg finds extensive applications in various industries, including aerospace and automotive. In aerospace, it is used in the production of aeroplane components for their high fatigue resistance and corrosion resistance. In the automotive sector, it is used in high-performance cars and electric vehicles (EVs) for improved fuel efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.
Furthermore, Bismaleimide (BMI) resin and polyimide resin are commonly used resin systems in carbon fiber prepreg. Advanced production techniques such as automated layup and resin infusion have streamlined the manufacturing process, making carbon fiber prepreg more accessible and cost-effective. Carbon fiber prepreg is also used in the production of drones for their lightweight and high-strength properties. In military and surveillance applications, it is valued for its mechanical durability and resistance to harsh environments. Additionally, it is increasingly being used in wind power generation for the production of blades due to its high stiffness and fatigue resistance.
The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.
The thermoset segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market, primarily based on thermosets, is poised for significant growth due to its mechanical advantages, including fatigue resistance and corrosion resistance. Thermoset-based carbon fiber prepreg's low processing viscosities for infusion and superior thermal resistance make it a preferred choice for various industries. Technological advancements have shortened the curing time for thermoset-based products, expanding their application scope. In the aerospace sector, carbon fiber prepreg is extensively used in aircraft components due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent thermal stability. In the automotive industry, it is increasingly being adopted for manufacturing fuel-efficient automobiles and electric vehicles (EVs) due to its lightweight properties.
Furthermore, in the renewable energy sector, carbon fiber prepreg is a key component in wind turbine blades, with epoxy resins being the most commonly used thermoset due to their superior fatigue resistance and durability compared to polyester resins. In summary, the thermoset-based market is anticipated to dominate the industry due to its favorable properties and wide application in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy. Epoxy resins are particularly popular in wind turbine composites for their superior fatigue resistance and stronger, more durable blades.
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The thermoset segment was valued at USD 2.37 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.
North America is estimated to contribute 50% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.
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The market in North America is projected to dominate the global industry during the forecast period, driven primarily by the expansion of the aerospace and defense sector in the region. The US economy's improvement, characterized by increased consumer spending, residential construction, and government expenditure, further supports market growth. Employment rates are rising, and real income is on the upswing, ensuring a healthy economic climate. The FAA's new Part 23 regulation targets reducing the weight of various general aviation aircraft, making carbon fiber prepreg an attractive choice due to its mechanical advantages, including fatigue resistance and corrosion resistance. Additionally, the automotive industry's shift towards fuel efficiency and the rise of electric cars (EVs) will fuel demand for carbon fiber prepreg in this sector.
Furthermore, the renewable energy sector, particularly wind turbine blades, will also contribute significantly to the market's growth due to carbon fiber's strength and lightweight properties.
Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.
The growth of wind power capacities is the key driver of the market. Carbon fiber prepreg, a composite material consisting of carbon fiber reinforcements and a polymer resin system, holds significant potential in the wind energy sector. With a focus on reducing the carbon footprint and increasing energy efficiency, developed regions such as North America and Western Europe have led the way in wind power installations.
Furthermore, in wind turbine manufacturing, prepreg is extensively utilized due to its superior properties, including high strength-to-weight ratio and longevity. The wind energy industry's growing demand for lightweight and durable components has led several market players to invest in advanced R&D for carbon fiber prepreg. This innovation is expected to enable the production of wind turbine blades with enhanced strength and reduced weight, contributing to increased efficiency and cost savings.
The rising population, urbanization, and increasing power requirement is the upcoming trend in the market. Carbon fiber prepreg, a composite material made up of carbon fiber reinforcements and a polymer resin system, has gained significant traction in various industries due to its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness, and longevity. The automotive, construction, and general industrial sectors are increasingly adopting carbon fiber prepreg to meet the demands of urbanization and improving infrastructure.
Also, according to recent market research, the global investment required to meet the current market demand is projected to reach nearly USD 5.2 trillion by 2025. Emerging economies are expected to be the major consumers, accounting for approximately 56% of the global demand. The use of carbon fiber prepreg in these sectors is anticipated to contribute significantly to meeting the infrastructure needs and enhancing the overall efficiency and durability of structures.
The high cost related to carbon composites is a key challenge affecting the market growth. Carbon fiber prepreg, a composite material made up of carbon fiber reinforcements and a polymer resin system, offers superior strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness, and longevity. However, the manufacturing and processing of carbon fiber prepregs involve significant research and development (R&D) costs and intricate handling procedures.
However, the testing of these materials for applications in aerospace and defense is time-consuming, costly, and entails a lengthy cycle process. The high cost of carbon fiber prepregs, which is eight times more than steel, acts as a significant barrier to market growth. The escalating cost of raw materials, particularly resins and carbon fibers, further increases procurement costs for companies. These factors can impact the demand for carbon fiber prepregs and may encourage the exploration of alternative materials.
The market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.
Customer Landscape
Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.
Axiom Materials Inc. - The company offers carbon fiber prepreg products such as Woven for honeycomb paneling and electronic transmission. They offer progressive composite materials such as prepreg and adhesives.
The market research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.
Carbon fiber prepregs, a composite material made from carbon fiber reinforcements and a polymer resin system, offer significant mechanical advantages for various industries. The prepreg process involves resin impregnation and controlled curing, resulting in high tensile strength, stiffness, fatigue resistance, and corrosion resistance. These properties make carbon fiber prepregs ideal for use in aerospace and defense components, aeroplane structures, automobiles, and renewable energy sources like wind turbine blades. Compared to traditional materials like metals and plastics, carbon fiber prepregs offer a superior strength-to-weight ratio, leading to weight reduction and improved fuel efficiency in vehicles, including electric cars (EVs) and high-performance cars.
Moreover, in the wind power industry, carbon fiber prepregs contribute to the production of lightweight, durable, and efficient wind turbine blades. Advanced production techniques, such as automated layup, resin infusion, and specialized equipment, enable the mass production of carbon fiber prepregs while maintaining their exceptional properties. The curing process, which involves applying pressure and heat, ensures the optimal bonding of fibers and resin. Carbon fiber prepregs are available in various fiber types, including epoxy resin, phenolic resin, thermoplastic resin (PEEK), bismaleimide (BMI) resin, and polyimide resin, as well as fiber options like carbon fibers, glass fibers, and aramid fibers.
In conclusion, vacuum bagging supplies and composite vacuum pumps are essential tools for the manufacturing process. Carbon fiber prepregs offer significant benefits in industries like aerospace & defense, automotive, renewable energy, and more, contributing to improved performance, durability, and sustainability.
Market Scope |
|
Report Coverage |
Details |
Page number |
173 |
Base year |
2023 |
Historic period |
2018-2022 |
Forecast period |
2024-2028 |
Growth momentum & CAGR |
Accelerate at a CAGR of 7.38% |
Market growth 2024-2028 |
USD 1.35 billion |
Market structure |
Fragmented |
YoY growth 2023-2024(%) |
6.73 |
Regional analysis |
North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa |
Performing market contribution |
North America at 50% |
Key countries |
US, China, Japan, Germany, and UK |
Competitive landscape |
Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks |
Key companies profiled |
Axiom Materials Inc., Arvind Composites, Celanese Corp., Dexcraft, DowAksa, Formosa M Co. Ltd., Gurit Holding AG, Hexcel Corp., K. Sakai and Co. Ltd., Kordsa Teknik Tekstil AS, Mitsubishi Chemical Corp., Nippon Steel Corp., OCSiAl, Plastic Reinforcement Fabrics Ltd., SGL Carbon SE, SK Chemicals Co. Ltd., Solvay SA, TCR Composites, Teijin Ltd., and Toray Composite Materials America Inc. |
Market dynamics |
Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, market forecast, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for the forecast period |
Customization purview |
If our market report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. |
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1 Executive Summary
2 Market Landscape
3 Market Sizing
4 Historic Market Size
5 Five Forces Analysis
6 Market Segmentation by Type
7 Market Segmentation by Application
8 Customer Landscape
9 Geographic Landscape
10 Drivers, Challenges, and Opportunity/Restraints
11 Competitive Landscape
12 Competitive Analysis
13 Appendix
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