|
Forecast Period
|
2024-2028
|
|
Market Size (2022)
|
USD 120.45 million
|
|
CAGR (2023-2028)
|
6.41%
|
|
Fastest Growing Segment
|
SSN
|
|
Largest Market
|
Asia Pacific
|
Market Overview
Global Silicon Nitride Market has valued at USD 120.45 million in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast
period with a CAGR of 6.41% through 2028. Silicon nitride is a remarkable
ceramic material known for its distinctive mechanical and thermal properties.
With its exceptional resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and various chemicals,
silicon nitride has become highly sought-after in numerous industries including
aerospace, automotive, and electronics. Its versatility and reliability have
made it an integral component in industrial solutions.In recent years, there has been a growing focus on
reducing emissions, leading to an increased use of ceramic components in the
development of medium and heavy-duty engines. This shift, coupled with the
declining cost of silicon nitride, is expected to drive significant market
growth in the future. An article published on LinkedIn in February 2019 highlighted
the production of nearly 300,000 sintered silicon nitride turbochargers
annually, emphasizing the material's significance in aerospace applications.
As environmental concerns continue to rise, there
is a growing demand for more sustainable ceramic solutions. Embracing
sustainable manufacturing practices for silicon nitride can help minimize its
negative impact on the environment while creating new opportunities in the
market. Moreover, advancements in biocompatible materials in the medical industry
and the expanding electric vehicle market present additional avenues for growth
and innovation.
However, the availability of substitutes poses a
potential challenge to the growth of the silicon nitride market. In order to
overcome this, players in the market are actively pursuing strategic
partnerships, engaging in mergers and acquisitions, and investing in research
and development. For example, in October 2022, Denka Company Limited announced
plans to increase silicon nitride production capacity by 1.5 times, positioning
themselves as a prominent player in the field of environment and energy.
Similarly, in November 2022, Kyocera developed a groundbreaking process for
manufacturing micro-lasers measuring only 100 micrometers in length. This
breakthrough not only lowers manufacturing costs but also simplifies the
peeling process.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on
the silicon nitride market, with production and manufacturing activities being
disrupted, leading to a decline in production and subsequent supply shortages
worldwide. This resulted in increased prices for silicon nitride and created a
demand for substitutes, potentially impeding the growth of the market. However,
as the world recovers from the pandemic, the market is poised for a rebound
with enhanced production capacity and renewed focus on innovation and
sustainability.
Key Market Drivers
Growing Demand of Silicon Nitride in Healthcare Industry
Silicon nitride is a highly durable and thermally
stable material with excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. These
properties make it an ideal choice for various applications within the
healthcare sector, especially in the field of orthopedics and dental implants.
When it comes to orthopedic implants, such as hip
and knee replacements, the traditional materials like titanium and stainless
steel have been widely used. However, recent advancements have led to the
increased use of silicon nitride due to its superior biocompatibility and wear
resistance. The use of silicon nitride implants has shown lower wear rates
compared to traditional materials, significantly reducing the risk of implant
loosening and failure. Moreover, the antibacterial properties of silicon
nitride can effectively decrease the risk of post-surgical infections.
In the field of dentistry, silicon nitride is also
being utilized for dental implants. The material's high strength and fracture
toughness, combined with its excellent biocompatibility, make it a suitable
choice for this application. Silicon nitride implants have been found to
exhibit excellent osseointegration, leading to successful long-term outcomes.
Considering the growing elderly population
worldwide and the subsequent rise in orthopedic and dental procedures, the
demand for silicon nitride in the healthcare sector is expected to continue to
increase. Furthermore, ongoing research and development activities are likely
to uncover new and innovative applications for silicon nitride within the
medical field, further propelling the growth of the market.
In conclusion, the growing demand for silicon
nitride in the healthcare industry is a significant driver of the global
silicon nitride market. As this material continues to prove its worth in
various medical applications, its market is poised to experience substantial
expansion in the coming years, driven by advancements in technology and
increasing awareness of its benefits.
Growing Demand of Silicon Nitride in Automotive
Industry
Silicon nitride is a high-performance ceramic
material known for its exceptional thermal stability, wear resistance, and
mechanical strength. These outstanding attributes make it an ideal choice for a
wide range of automotive applications, especially in critical engine components
and high-temperature sensors.
Silicon nitride's remarkable thermal and mechanical
properties make it a preferred material for manufacturing engine parts that are
subjected to extreme conditions. Its ability to withstand high temperatures and
resist wear and corrosion makes it perfect for components like valves, tappets,
and turbocharger rotors, ensuring reliable and efficient engine performance.
One of the significant advantages of using silicon
nitride components in engines is their ability to operate at higher
temperatures compared to their metal counterparts. This capability not only
boosts engine efficiency and performance but also contributes to enhanced fuel
economy and reduced emissions. The lighter weight of silicon nitride parts
further aids in improving overall vehicle fuel efficiency, aligning with the
automotive industry's push towards sustainability and environmental
consciousness.
In addition to engine components, silicon nitride
is increasingly being utilized in the production of high-temperature sensors
for automotive exhaust systems. These sensors play a crucial role in monitoring
exhaust gas temperatures, enabling precise control of emissions and ensuring
optimal engine performance. With stringent emission regulations in place
globally, the demand for high-temperature sensors made from silicon nitride is
expected to witness significant growth, further driving the expansion of the
silicon nitride market.
Looking towards the future of the automotive
industry, the focus is on electrification and hybrid technology, where silicon
nitride's exceptional properties can be fully leveraged. For instance, its
excellent electrical insulating properties make it highly suitable for use in
electric vehicle (EV) power electronics, ensuring efficient and reliable
performance.
Furthermore, ongoing research and development
activities are continuously uncovering new and innovative applications for
silicon nitride within the automotive sector. This constant exploration and
discovery of novel uses further propel the growth of the silicon nitride
market, ensuring its sustained expansion in the years to come.
In conclusion, the increasing demand for silicon
nitride in the automotive industry is a significant driving force behind the
global silicon nitride market. As this exceptional material continues to
demonstrate its value and versatility in various automotive applications, its
market is poised for substantial growth and advancement in the foreseeable
future.
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Key Market Challenges
Limited Availability of Raw Materials
Silicon nitride, a highly versatile material, is
synthesized from raw materials such as silica sand and nitrogen compounds. The
quality and availability of these raw materials play a crucial role in
determining the properties and overall success of the final silicon nitride product.
Ensuring a steady supply of high-quality raw
materials is of paramount importance for the sustained growth and development
of the silicon nitride market. However, the limited availability of these raw
materials presents a significant challenge on a global scale. This multifaceted
issue encompasses various factors, including geographical distribution,
extraction difficulties, and environmental concerns.
Silica sand, a primary raw material used in the
production of silicon nitride, is not evenly distributed worldwide. Certain
regions possess abundant reserves, while others face scarcity. This uneven
distribution can lead to disruptions in the supply chain, ultimately affecting
the production capacity of silicon nitride.
The extraction of silica sand itself can be
challenging due to a variety of factors. Environmental regulations, aimed at
mitigating the negative impacts of extraction, along with technical
difficulties, can hinder the extraction process and limit the availability of
this essential raw material.
Moreover, the extraction and processing of silica
sand can have significant environmental implications. These activities can
disrupt natural habitats and contribute to water pollution, among other
concerns. In response to these environmental challenges, stricter regulations
have been implemented, further restricting the availability of raw materials
for silicon nitride production.
By addressing these complex issues surrounding the
availability and quality of raw materials, the silicon nitride industry can
enhance its sustainability, promote responsible sourcing practices, and ensure
the long-term viability of this versatile material.
Key Market Trends
Advancements in Ceramic Matrix Composites
Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) are advanced
materials that consist of a ceramic matrix combined with a ceramic or metal
reinforcement. These composites are widely recognized for their exceptional
properties, including high-temperature stability, light weight, and superior
strength. As a result, they have found extensive use in various industrial
applications where performance and reliability are paramount.
Among the different types of CMCs, silicon
nitride-based composites have emerged as strong contenders for structural
applications, particularly in cutting tools. This is due to their outstanding
thermal and mechanical properties, which enable them to withstand high
temperatures and demanding operating conditions.
In recent years, there have been significant
advancements in CMC technology, leading to a broader range of applications
across various sectors. One notable area is the automotive industry, where
there is a growing demand for lightweight materials with exceptional strength.
This demand has spurred the development and utilization of silicon nitride-based
CMCs, as they offer a compelling solution to meet the industry's requirements.
Moreover, there is an increasing emphasis on
sustainable and eco-friendly materials in today's world. In this context, CMCs
have garnered significant attention and adoption due to their inherent
environmental benefits. Silicon nitride, in particular, stands out with its
superior properties and potential for recycling, aligning perfectly with the
current trend towards sustainability.
In conclusion, the advancements in ceramic matrix
composites, particularly silicon nitride-based CMCs, are shaping the global
silicon nitride market. As these composites continue to evolve and find new
applications, the demand for silicon nitride is expected to rise, driving the
expansion of the market in the coming years. This presents exciting
opportunities for further research and innovation in the field of CMCs, as well
as the overall growth of the materials industry.
Segmental Insights
Type Insights
Based on the category of type, the SSN segment
emerged as the dominant player in the global market for silicon nitride.Sintered
silicon nitride, a high-performance material, is formed by sintering powder
compacts in a bed of silicon nitride powder under a high-pressure nitrogen
atmosphere. To enhance its properties, additives like magnesium oxide and
yttrium oxide are incorporated. With its exceptional thermal shock resistance,
wear resistance, and high-temperature strength, sintered silicon nitride finds
extensive use in various market applications. These include reciprocating
engine components, turbochargers, bearings, metal cutting and shaping tools,
and hot metal handling.
In contrast, reaction bonded silicon nitride is
made by direct nitridation, which presents challenges in ensuring a complete
reaction. Due to this, reaction bonded silicon nitride exhibits a lower density
compared to sintered silicon nitride. Another variant, hot pressed silicon
nitride, is produced through the hot pressing of silicon nitride, resulting in
a material with virtually zero porosity.
Application Insights
The Others segment is projected to experience rapid
growth during the forecast period. The largest market for silicon nitrides is
in reciprocating engines like diesel and spark-ignited engines, where it is extensively
used for combustion and wear parts. These advanced ceramic materials play a
crucial role in reducing wear and increasing the efficiency of various engine
functions, such as minimizing engine lag and facilitating faster start-up.
According to the Organisation Internationale des
Constructeurs d’Autombiles (OICA), the total vehicle production in 2021 reached
a staggering value of 57.3 million units, showcasing a remarkable growth of
8.9% compared to the production numbers of 2020. This substantial increase in
vehicle production has directly contributed to the rising demand for automotive
components, including silicon nitride. As a result, the Silicon Nitride Market
is expected to witness significant growth within the forecast period, driven by
the expanding automotive industry and its continuous pursuit of innovation and
efficiency.
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Regional Insights
Asia Pacific emerged as the dominant player in the Global
Silicon Nitride Market in 2022, holding the largest market share in terms of value.
The increasing demand for the automotive sector and
energy sector in the Asia-Pacific region is primarily being led by China,
India, South Korea, and Japan. According to the Organisation Internationale des
Constructeurs d’Automobiles (OICA), the Asia-Pacific region had the largest
production of motor vehicles in the year 2020, with a total production value of
44.3 million vehicles. China alone contributed about 32% of the global motor
vehicle production in 2020, with a production value of 25.3 million units.
Japan followed with a production of 8.1 million units, and South Korea with 3.5
million units in 2020.
Moreover, according to British Petroleum (BP), the
Asia-Pacific region accounted for 45.5% of the global energy consumption in
2020, equivalent to 253.7 exajoules. This highlights the significant role
played by the region in meeting the world's energy needs. As a result, the
demand for the Silicon Nitride Market, an important component for these end-use
industries, is expected to witness substantial growth in the Asia-Pacific
region within the forecast period.
Recent Developments
- In 2021, H.C. Starck Solutions, a leading provider
of advanced materials, announced the expansion of its production capacity for
silicon nitride powder. This expansion was driven by the growing demand from
the electronics and automotive industries, which rely on silicon nitride for
various applications such as electronic components and automotive engine parts.
By increasing their production capacity, H.C. Starck Solutions aims to meet the
industry's increasing need for high-quality silicon nitride powder.
- In 2020, CeramTec GmbH, a global leader in advanced
ceramics, made a significant move to expand its market presence and product
portfolio. The company announced the acquisition of Dynamic-Ceramic Limited, a
reputable UK-based manufacturer of advanced ceramics. This strategic
acquisition was aimed at leveraging the synergies between the two companies and
tapping into the growing market demand for advanced ceramics in industries such
as aerospace, healthcare, and electronics. With this acquisition, CeramTec GmbH
solidified its position as a key player in the advanced ceramics market.
- In 2020, Denka Company Limited, a Japanese
multinational chemical company, made a strategic move to diversify its business
into the environmental and energy sectors. The company announced the
acquisition of a majority stake in Energenics Europe Ltd., a renowned UK-based
manufacturer of industrial filters. This acquisition not only expanded Denka's
product portfolio but also allowed them to tap into the growing market for
environmental solutions. By combining Denka's expertise in the chemical
industry with Energenics' innovative filtration technologies, the company aimed
to provide sustainable and efficient solutions to industries such as
manufacturing, power generation, and water treatment.
- In 2019, Morgan Advanced Materials, a global leader
in engineered materials, strengthened its position in the aerospace and defense
industries through a strategic acquisition. The company announced the
acquisition of Advanced Composite Materials LLC, a US-based manufacturer of
carbon fiber composites. The acquisition was aimed at expanding Morgan's
product portfolio and market reach, enabling them to offer a wider range of
lightweight and high-strength materials for aerospace and defense applications.
This move reinforced Morgan Advanced Materials' commitment to providing
innovative solutions for industries that demand superior performance and
reliability.
- In 2021, UBE Industries, Ltd., a renowned Japanese
chemical company, introduced a new series of silicon nitride ceramics for
cutting tools called "UBESHARP." These cutting tools were
specifically developed to meet the demanding requirements of industries such as
metalworking and machining. With their exceptional wear resistance, toughness,
and surface finish quality, UBESHARP cutting tools enable manufacturers to
achieve higher productivity, precision, and cost-effectiveness in their
machining operations.
- In 2020, KYOCERA Corporation, a global leader in
advanced ceramic technology, launched a new series of silicon nitride
components for the semiconductor industry called "SN22." These
components were designed to address the evolving needs of the semiconductor
industry, which demands high-performance materials with excellent thermal shock
resistance and electrical insulation properties. The SN22 series from KYOCERA
offers semiconductor manufacturers enhanced reliability, improved process
efficiency, and extended product lifespan.
- In 2020, CoorsTek Inc., a leading manufacturer of
engineered ceramics, introduced a new series of silicon nitride ceramics for
the medical industry called "CoorsTek CeraSurf®-p." These ceramics
were specifically developed to meet the stringent requirements of medical applications,
such as orthopedic implants and surgical instruments. With their exceptional
wear resistance, low friction, and biocompatibility, CoorsTek CeraSurf®-p
ceramics provide medical professionals with reliable and long-lasting
solutions, contributing to improved patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.
- In 2019, 3M Company, a global science and
technology company, unveiled a new series of silicon nitride ceramics for the
automotive industry called "3M™ Silicon Nitride." These ceramics were
engineered to meet the demanding performance requirements of the automotive
sector, offering high strength, fracture toughness, and wear resistance. The
3M™ Silicon Nitride ceramics find application in critical automotive components
such as engine parts, bearings, and cutting tools, contributing to improved
vehicle performance, efficiency, and durability.
Key Market Players
- Ube Industries Ltd
- Denka
Company Limited
- H.C.
Starck Gmbh
- Ceramtec
Gmbh
- Kyocera
Corporation
- Development
Co Ltd
- 3m
Company
- Coorstek
Inc
- Toshiba
Materials Co Ltd
- Morgan
Advanced Materials PLC
|
By Type
|
By Product
Type
|
By End User
|
By Region
|
|
|
- Cutting
Tools
- Bearings
- Others
|
- Medical
& Healthcare
- Photovoltaic
- Others
|
- North
America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- South
America
- Middle East
& Africa
|
Report Scope:
In this report, the Global Silicon Nitride Market has
been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry
trends which have also been detailed below:
- Silicon Nitride Market, By Type:
o RBSN
o HPSN
o SSN
o Others
- Silicon Nitride Market, By Product Type:
o Cutting Tools
o Bearings
o Others
- Silicon Nitride Market, By End User:
o Medical & Healthcare
o Photovoltaic
o Others
- Silicon Nitride Market By Region:
o North America
§ United States
§ Canada
§ Mexico
o Europe
§ France
§ United Kingdom
§ Italy
§ Germany
§ Spain
o Asia-Pacific
§ China
§ India
§ Japan
§ Australia
§ South Korea
o South America
§ Brazil
§ Argentina
§ Colombia
o Middle East & Africa
§ South Africa
§ Saudi Arabia
§ UAE
§ Kuwait
§ Turkey
§ Egypt
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global
Silicon Nitride Market.
Available Customizations:
Global Silicon Nitride Market report with the given
market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's
specific needs. The following customization options are available for the
report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and profiling of additional
market players (up to five).
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