Nonwovens for Energy Applications Market Report By Insights, Size, and Growth - 2031

The market for nonwovens utilized in energy applications was valued at approximately US$ 10.92 million in 2023 and is anticipated to grow to around US$ 104.73 million by 2031, reflecting a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 32.7% during the period from 2023 to 2031.

This market is categorized based on various applications, including batteries, fuel cell gas diffusion layers (GDL), porous transport layers (PTL), and wind energy. Notably, the fuel cell gas diffusion layer (GDL) segment dominated the market in 2023 and is projected to maintain a robust growth trajectory throughout the forecast period. Carbon nonwoven materials are extensively employed as substrates for fuel cell GDLs. The gas diffusion layer serves as a crucial thin, porous interface situated between the electrode and the reactant gas flow field in both fuel cells and electrolyzers. The nonwoven materials used in this layer play a vital role in managing water, providing structural integrity, and facilitating the transport of reactants. The nonwoven substrate is essential for optimizing the performance of fuel cells, functioning as both a functional component and a supportive structure for the membrane electrode assembly.

In 2023, the Asia Pacific region accounted for the largest share of the nonwovens for energy applications market. This growth is largely driven by heightened demand from the food and beverage sector. As advancements in battery technology continue, the Asia Pacific region is poised to emerge as a central hub for the production of new energy vehicles. China, in particular, has established itself as one of the largest markets for electric vehicles globally, bolstered by government initiatives that promote the adoption of electric vehicles. According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, approximately 6,000 fuel-cell electric vehicles were sold in China in 2023, marking a significant year-on-year increase of 72%. Several economies within the Asia Pacific region are planning to enhance their new energy vehicle sectors in alignment with governmental support for the growth of fuel cell electric vehicles in the coming years. The hydrogen development plan released in 2022 outlines China's ambitious goal of deploying 50,000 fuel cell vehicles on its roads by the end of 2025.

Key players in the global nonwovens for energy applications market include Technical Fibers Products, Tex Tech Industries Inc, Freudenberg Group, SGL Carbon SE, Lydall Inc, AstenJohnson Inc, Hoftex Group AG, DeatexGroup S.r.l., Sandler AG, and Glatfelter Corporation Sontara. These companies are dedicated to delivering high-quality products that meet customer needs and are actively engaged in the development and launch of innovative, high-quality offerings.

The overall size of the global nonwovens for energy applications market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methodologies. The research process commenced with extensive secondary research, utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data pertinent to the market. Additionally, numerous primary interviews were conducted with industry stakeholders to validate the findings and acquire deeper analytical insights. Participants in this research included industry experts such as vice presidents, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, as well as external consultants like valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the nonwovens for energy applications sector.