Study: Demand for speciality silica on the rise

ERJ staff report (R&PN)

Cleveland, Ohio -- Speciality silica demand will grow to 2.8 million metric tons by 2016, according to a study from the Freedonia Group Inc.

The study, titled World Speciality Silicas, claims demand for silicas-such as precipitated silica, fumed silica, silica gel and silica sol-will grow because of its use in the rubber market.

Precipitated silica is expected to account for more than two-thirds of the global demand for silica in 2021 because of its use in tyre treads. The silica lowers rolling resistance and improves the tyres grip in wet weather, according to Freedonia.

Fumed silica use is expected to rise in industrial silicone rubber applications, while silica sol is expected to keep pace, as it is used in refractories, metals and textiles.

With the Asia and pacific region markets expected to be the largest and fastest growing region, China is expected to drive growth, according to the company.

North America and Western Europe are expected to see their markets grow at a slower pace.

From Rubber & Plastics News (A Crain publication)

Home page of report on Freedonia site