Graphene, hailed by many as a super material, is revolutionizing the field of science and technology. Composed of carbon atoms arranged in a honeycomb pattern, graphene is strong, lightweight, and flexible. Its exceptional properties make it a valuable material for various industries, leading to a surge in its demand and applications. Despite its strength, graphene does have a melting point and can break if stretched beyond a certain limit. However, its remarkable characteristics make it highly applicable in fields such as energy, coatings, and sensors.
Revolutionizing Energy Storage and Electronics
Graphene has a wide range of potential applications in super batteries, supercapacitors, and wind and solar panels, largely due to its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. Traditional lithium-ion batteries can see a dramatic increase in lifespan with the incorporation of graphene. Additionally, the high resistivity of graphene aids in the development of durable coatings, making it a high-value product in the global market. Graphene’s use in ultra-sensitive sensors is another significant driver of its market growth.
In 2021, the number of connected wearable devices was 929 million, up from 835 million in 2020. This growth is expected to continue, with the market predicted to rise in the coming years. The conductivity and thinness of graphite have prompted research into graphite semiconductors, which could eventually replace current computer chip technology due to their ability to conduct electricity at normal temperatures. In May 2019, researchers from the Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology developed a transistor to improve semiconductor performance, revealing that graphite chips are faster than existing silicon processors.
Graphene Nanoplatelets: Leading the Market
Graphene nanoplatelets dominate the market, holding a major revenue share. Their lightweight nature, mechanical characteristics, and improved thermal and electrical conductivities, combined with low cost and simple manufacturing techniques, are projected to boost the segment’s growth. These nanoplatelets enhance mechanical and tribological performance by improving material barrier characteristics and thermal conductivity. When mixed into polymer matrices, graphene nanoplatelets improve mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and longevity, driving market expansion.
Asia Pacific: A Major Player in the Graphene Market
Asia Pacific is expected to remain dominant in the global graphene market, holding a significant revenue share throughout the forecast period. The region’s thriving industrial sector, particularly in automotive, marine, military, and aerospace industries, is propelling market growth. China’s expanding industrial sector is another key driver, with lithium-ion battery output reaching 324 GWh in 2021, up 106 percent year-on-year. China’s graphite reserves were estimated at 73 million metric tonnes in 2021, further supporting market growth.
North America: Rapid Growth Expected
North America is anticipated to rise at a rapid pace, driven by the presence of small and medium-sized manufacturers with extensive distribution and supplier networks. Strong R&D activities, universities, and research institutes collaborate with manufacturers to produce next-generation graphene for the electronics and aerospace industries. The large-scale presence of aircraft manufacturers in the United States is expected to increase the demand for lightweight composite materials. With a growing number of aircraft in the U.S., the demand for graphene is projected to rise due to its lightweight properties.
Global Graphene Market: Competitive Landscape
Companies in the graphene industry are forming alliances, collaborations, and partnerships, and launching new products. In July 2021, Mason Graphite Inc. acquired critical assets related to a patented graphene processing technique from Thomas Swan & Co. Limited through its subsidiary Black Swan Graphene Inc., improving manufacturing efficiency. In June 2021, a collaboration between academics from the School of Engineering and a specialist Chinese materials company began to create graphene-based materials for purification and waste treatment applications.
Key players in the graphene market include Acs Material LLC, Bluestone Global Tech, CVD Equipment Corporation, Graphene Nanochem Plc, Graphenea S.A., G6 Materials, Haydale Limited, Nanotek Instruments, Inc., Vorbeck Materials, and Xg Sciences.
Regional Classification of the Global Graphene Market
- North America: U.S., Canada
- Europe: Germany, France, Spain, U.K., Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific: China, Japan, India, Southeast Asia, Rest of Asia Pacific
- Latin America: Brazil, Mexico, Rest of Latin America
- Middle East and Africa: GCC, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa
