3D printing has revolutionized manufacturing processes across various industries, from aerospace and automotive to healthcare and consumer goods. As this technology continues to advance, so too does the demand for innovative and high-performance materials. The 3D printing materials market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by factors such as increasing adoption of additive manufacturing, advancements in material science, and the need for customized and complex products.
The global 3D printing materials market size was USD 1.53 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach USD 3.78 billion by 2026, exhibiting a CAGR of 12.1% during the forecast period. North America dominated the 3d printing materials market with a market share of 37.91% in 2018.
3D Printing Materials
Market Driver
Rising Applicability of 3D Printing in Healthcare to Stoke Market Growth
The 3D printing materials market growth is slated to get augmented in the coming years owing to the widening applicability of additive manufacturing techniques in the healthcare sector. Recent breakthroughs in this sector using 3D printing are a testament to its vast potential. For example, in 2019, TU Wien, a renowned Austrian university, developed a unique bio-ink to embed cells in a 3D matrix using 3D printing materials.
These embedded cells are expected to enable controlled investigation of cell behavior and tissue growth. Another milestone was reached January 2020, when researchers at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine located the structural proteins in swine ovaries. This finding can empower medical professionals to create artificial ovaries in humans using 3D printing materials and processes. Thus, this technology offers promising prospects for the healthcare industry and help breach new frontiers of medical research.
Key Trends in the 3D Printing Materials Market
- Expansion of Material Types: The range of materials available for 3D printing has expanded significantly. Beyond traditional plastics, metals, and ceramics, materials like composites, biomaterials, and even concrete are being used to create a wide variety of products.
- Focus on Sustainability:There is a growing emphasis on sustainable 3D printing materials, with manufacturers exploring biodegradable and recyclable options. This aligns with the global trend towards environmentally friendly production methods.
- Advancements in Material Properties: Researchers are constantly working to develop materials with specific properties, such as high strength, heat resistance, or conductivity. These materials enable the creation of products with unique functionalities.
- Integration with Other Technologies: 3D printing materials are increasingly being combined with other technologies, such as electronics and sensors, to create multifunctional products.
- Customization and Personalization: The ability to customize and personalize products through 3D printing is driving demand for materials that can be tailored to specific needs and preferences.
Regional Analysis
Strong Funding for Industrial R&Dto Propel the Market in North America
North America is anticipated to dominate the 3D printing materials market share during the forecast period in terms of revenue and size. In 2018, the region’s market size was at USD 0.58 billion owing to the surging demand for 3D printing in the aerospace, defence, and medical industries. This demand is rooted in the fact that this technology is both energy-efficient and cost-effective. In Europe, additive manufacturing is being heavily employed to produce implants and prosthetics for the healthcare sector. On the other hand, the market in Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at an impressive rate on account of wide usage of 3D printing materials in various end-user industries, including automotive, healthcare, and military.
Major Applications of 3D Printing Materials
- Healthcare: 3D printing materials are used to create custom prosthetics, implants, and medical devices. Biocompatible materials are essential for applications that come into direct contact with the human body.
- Aerospace and Defense:The aerospace and defense industries rely on 3D printing for the production of lightweight, high-strength components. Materials like metal alloys and composites are commonly used in this sector.
- Automotive: 3D printing is being used to create prototypes, tooling, and even production parts for the automotive industry.Materials such as plastics and metal alloys are popular choices.formlabs.com
- Consumer Goods: 3D printing is enabling the production of customized consumer products, from footwear and eyewear to jewelry and toys. A wide range of materials, including plastics and metals, are used in this sector.
Competitive Landscape
Strategic Launch of Advanced Products to Intensify Market Competition
Development and launch of advanced additive solutions and materials is rapidly emerging as the dominant strategy among players in this market. Apart from this, companies are collaborating with each other expand their innovation capabilities and deepen their foothold in the market.
List of Companies Profiled in the 3D Printing Materials Market Report:
American Elements, Covestro AG, Höganäs AB, GE Additive, Royal DSM N.V., EOS GmbH, Materialise NV, Stratasys Ltd., Solvay, BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, ExOne, Arkema, 3D Systems, Inc.
