Cellulose is a pulp that is derived from plant sources. The substance possesses exceptional properties such as its hydrophile nature, good mechanical performance, and hygroscopic nature. These properties have led to applications across diverse industries, including chemical, textile, and food and beverages. Recent advancements in fabrication technologies have opened up a huge potential for the growth of the companies operating in this industry. The shift of preference from petroleum-based products to sustainable resources will contribute to the growing demand for cellulose across the world. Moreover, availability of cellulose-originating products will lead to a wider product adoption, subsequently aiding the growth of the cellulose industry in the coming years.
The global cellulose industry size is projected to reach USD 305.08 billion by the end of 2026. Driven by applications across diverse industries, the industry will exhibit considerable growth in the coming years. According to a report published by Fortune Business Insights, titled “Cellulose industry Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Derivative Type (Commodity Cellulose Pulp, Cellulose Fibers, Cellulose Ethers, Cellulose Esters, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Nano-cellulose, and Others), By End-Use Industry (Textile, Food, Chemical Synthesis, Pharmaceuticals, Construction, Paper & Pulp, Paints & Coatings, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2030,” the industry was worth USD 219.53 billion in 2018 and will exhibit a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period, 2024-2030.
The report provides an in-depth analysis of the global cellulose industry. It highlights the latest product launches and labels major innovations in the industry. In addition to this, it states the impact of these products on the growth of the industry. The competitive landscape has been discussed in detail and predictions are made with respect to leading companies and products in the coming years. Forecast values have been provided for the industry. The factual figures have been obtained through trusted sources. Moreover, these predictions are made on the basis of extensive research analysis methods, coupled with the opinions of experienced industry research professionals.
From Paper to Pharmaceuticals: A Range of Applications
Cellulose forms the structural backbone of plants, providing strength and stability. This translates into a range of functionalities for different industries:
Paper & Pulp: The undisputed leader in cellulose consumption, the paper industry continues to be a major driver of the industry. From paperboard packaging to facial tissues, cellulose is the foundation of countless paper products.
Textiles: Rayon, a regenerated cellulose fiber, is finding favor in the textile industry due to its soft feel and breathability. The growing demand for sustainable clothing is propelling the use of cellulose-based fabrics.
Food & Pharmaceuticals: Cellulose derivatives like cellulose ethers and esters act as thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers in various food and pharmaceutical products.
Construction: Microcrystalline cellulose finds use as a binder in construction materials, offering improved strength and durability.
Growth Factors: Sustainability and Rising Demand
The cellulose industry is driven by several factors:
Sustainability: As consumers become more eco-conscious, the demand for sustainable materials like cellulose is rising. Cellulose is a naturally occurring, renewable resource, making it an attractive alternative to synthetic materials.
Growing Populations: The increasing global population creates a higher demand for products like paper, textiles, and food, all of which rely on cellulose.
Technological Advancements: New technologies are constantly being developed to improve cellulose processing and create novel applications.
Increasing Number of Company Collaborations to Aid Growth
The report encompasses several factors that have constituted an increase in the cellulose industry size in recent years. It has been observed that company collaborations are a growing trend among major companies across the world. In January 2020, The Anhui Guozhen Group announced that it has initiated a joint venture with Chemtex. The company plans to establish a large scale commercial plant in China for the production of cellulosic ethanol. The ethanol production will be centred around residues that are normally obtained from the agriculture industry. The plant will have an annual production capacity of 50 KT. Such a huge venture will not only benefit the country but will also have a direct impact on the growth of the overall cellulose industry in the coming years.
Source- https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/cellulose-market-102062
Asia Pacific Accounts for a Dominating industry Share; Increasing Product Demand Across Diverse Industries to Aid Growth
The industry is segmented based on regional demographics into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa. Among these regions, Asia Pacific currently accounts for the highest cellulose industry share. The widespread product applications across diverse industries, and the subsequent rise in the demand for these products will directly impact the growth of the industry in this region. Besides Asia Pacific, the industry in North America will witness considerable growth in the coming years. As of 2018, the industry in North America was worth USD 63.46 billion and this value is projected to rise further in the coming years, driven by product uses in the paper industry.
Some of the leading companies that are operating in the global cellulose industry:
Daicel Corporation, Sigma Aldrich, DuPont De Nemours Company, Akzo Nobel, Ashland inc., Celanese Corporation, International Paper, Fulida Group Holding Co., Ltd., Nylstar S.L., FiberVisions Corporation, Invista, Bracell, Sigachi Industries Pvt. Ltd., FMC Biopolymer, Eastman Chemical Company, Rayonier Inc., Lenzing AG
Regional Variations and Future Outlook
The cellulose industry shows regional variations. Asia Pacific currently holds the largest industry share due to the presence of major economies like China and India with booming textile and construction industries.
The future of the cellulose industry looks bright. The increasing demand for sustainable solutions and the ongoing development of new applications are expected to propel industry growth in the coming years.
Cellulose: More Than Just Paper
Cellulose is a prime example of how a natural resource can be a powerful economic driver. As we move towards a more sustainable future, cellulose is likely to play an even greater role in various industries, proving that nature's building blocks hold immense potential.