Global Carbon Black Projects Gain Ground

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Researched by Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas)--According to the International Carbon Black Association (ICBA), carbon black is one of the top 50 industrial chemicals manufactured worldwide and has a current global production of about 18 billion pounds per year [8.1 million metric tons]. About 90% of carbon black is used in rubber applications, 9% as a pigment, and the remaining 1% as an essential ingredient in various applications.

Majorly used in tires, carbon black improves the strength and durability of the tire, enhancing performance and life. It is also used in the pyrolysis process and helps in tire recycling. By enhancing electrochemical conductivity, it helps in improving battery efficiency and also acts as a reinforcing agent in plastics. Other uses include as a pigment in toners, printing inks and coatings, in shielding power cables and in automotive skin contacts as it is highly UV absorbent.

Industrial Info is presently tracking 104 active capital projects, worth more than US$6.8 billion, that are geared toward manufacturing carbon black. These projects account for more than 9 million metric tons per year of new capacity in the future. Subscribers to Industrial Info's Global Market Intelligence (GMI) Chemical Processing Project Database can click here for related reports.

Asia is the biggest driver of investment, owning a market share of 75% and spending US$ 5.1 billion across 69 projects. It is followed by North America with an investment of US$1.4 billion across 15 projects.

By country, China leads the way with a total spend pipeline of US$ 3.3 billion across 44 projects. It is followed by the U.S. with an investment value of US$1.4 billion.

Most (43%) of these projects are grassroot in nature, while 23% are unit additions and 13% are plant expansions, With 48% of the investment in the initial planning stages, 26% in the latter engineering stages and 25% already under construction. Most of these projects are expected to be completed by December 2026.

Although environmental concerns and fluctuating raw material prices pose certain restraints, the market for carbon black continues to evolve. As reported by Fortune Business Insights, the global carbon black market size is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.8%, from US$27.44 billion in 2023 to US$38.10 billion by 2030.

Industrial Info Resources (IIR) is the leading provider of industrial market intelligence. Since 1983, IIR has provided comprehensive research, news and analysis on the industrial process, manufacturing and energy related industries. IIR's Global Market Intelligence (GMI) helps companies identify and pursue trends across multiple markets with access to real, qualified and validated plant and project opportunities. Across the world, IIR is tracking over 200,000 current and future projects worth $17.8 trillion (USD).