The market for plastics used in SLS 3D printing was valued at approximately US$ 157.28 million in 2022 and is projected to grow to US$ 641.79 million by 2030, reflecting an anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.2% from 2022 through 2030.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) represents a form of additive manufacturing that utilizes a high-powered laser to fuse polymer particles into solid structures. This technology is widely employed for various purposes, including rapid prototyping and bespoke manufacturing. SLS 3D printing is particularly adept at creating intricate geometrical shapes that possess superior mechanical properties. Numerous companies are dedicated to the ongoing enhancement of SLS-compatible plastic materials, focusing on attributes such as durability, thermal resistance, and flexibility. For example, collaborations between firms like HP and BASF aim to innovate and improve SLS materials.
The plastic for SLS 3D printing market is categorized by material type, including polyamide, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyether ether ketone, and others. Among these, the thermoplastic polyurethane segment is anticipated to experience the highest CAGR from 2022 to 2030. In the context of SLS 3D printing, TPU is favored for its elasticity and abrasion resistance, making it ideal for the production of functional and flexible components such as gaskets, seals, and cushioning elements. Its ability to endure a wide temperature range, from -40?C to 100?C, further solidifies its applicability across various sectors, including automotive, footwear, and sports equipment. Additionally, the healthcare industry has adopted TPU for tailored medical applications, such as patient-specific orthopedic implants, prosthetics, and wearable medical devices, which are 3D printed to ensure a precise fit and enhanced comfort, ultimately improving patient outcomes. TPU's role in the automotive sector is also significant, as it is utilized to manufacture functional, shock-absorbing parts like suspension bushings and flexible ducts.
The Asia Pacific region is projected to exhibit the fastest CAGR in the global plastic for SLS 3D printing market from 2022 to 2030. The surge in electrification projects, along with the expansion of the electronics sector in this region, presents substantial growth opportunities for the plastic for SLS 3D printing market. Furthermore, the increasing sales of automobiles in Asia Pacific nations, particularly India and China, have been key contributors to the market's growth in recent years. According to the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, motor vehicle production in the Asia Pacific was estimated at around 46.73 million units in 2021. Additionally, passenger car production rose from 35.82 million in 2020 to 38.15 million in 2021. The region is home to some of the largest manufacturing economies globally, including China, Japan, and South Korea, which are heavily investing in advanced manufacturing technologies like SLS 3D printing. Consequently, the presence of leading SLS 3D printing companies and the burgeoning automotive industry in the region are expected to significantly drive the growth of the plastics for SLS printing market during the forecast period.
Key players in the global plastic for SLS 3D printing market include 3D Systems Corp, BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, Arkema SA, Ensinger GmbH, Fiberlab SA, Stratasys Ltd, Sinterit Sp Zoo, EOS Gmb, and CRP Service SRL. These companies are committed to delivering high-quality products that meet customer needs and are actively engaged in launching new and innovative offerings.
The overall size of the global plastic for SLS 3D printing market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methods. The research process commenced with extensive secondary research, utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data relevant to the market. Additionally, numerous primary interviews were conducted with industry stakeholders to validate the findings and gain 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 plastic for SLS 3D printing market.