Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) is nature’s nanoparticle, derived from wood or plant cellulose fibers. It offers excellent strength and reinforces composites due to its nanoscale dimensions and abundant hydroxyl groups allowing for surface chemical modification. MFC is used to manufacture paper, composites, coatings, food, and personal care products. It enhances optical, mechanical and barrier properties while reducing materials usage. The global MFC market has grown significantly over the past few years owing to the rising demand for sustainable and low-cost materials across industries.
The Global Microfibrillated Cellulose Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 336.91 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 13% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the Microfibrillated Cellulose are Borregaard Chemicals Company, Daicel Corporation, FiberLean Technologies Ltd, J. Rettenmaier & Söhne, Nippon Paper Industries Co., Ltd, Norske Skog ASA, Sappi Limited, Stora Enso Oyj, Weidmann Fiber Technology, and Zelfo Technology GmbH. The growing demand for eco-friendly products is fueling the MFC market. Major global companies are focusing on expanding their MFC production capacities to leverage the growing market opportunities.
Growing demand: The increasing regulatory pressure to reduce petroleum-based materials along with the rising Microfibrillated Cellulose Market Demand for biodegradable and recyclable products is anticipated to drive the demand for microfibrillated cellulose over the forecast period.
Global expansion: Leading players operating in the microfibrillated cellulose market are focusing on enhancing their production capacities by setting up new manufacturing facilities globally to cater to the growing demand. For instance, in 2020, Borregaard opened a new MFC production plant in Norway.
Market Key Trends
Product innovation is a key trend in the microfibrillated cellulose market. Manufacturers are investing in R&D to developing new application areas and product grades of MFC. For example, in 2021 Borregaard launched a new range of products called Mimory for coatings and packaging applications. Meanwhile, FiberLean has developed a method to mass produce MFC at 93–98% dry content enabling its use in 3D printing filaments and other applications.
Porter’s Analysis
Threat of new entrants: Cellulose production requires large investment in specialty machinery and R&D which makes entry difficult.
Bargaining power of buyers: Buyers have moderate bargaining power as MFC has few substitutes and switching costs are low.
Bargaining power of suppliers: Suppliers have moderate bargaining power as raw materials like wood pulp are available from several sources.
Threat of new substitutes: Substitutes like nanocrystalline cellulose pose low threat currently due to high costs of production andScale up.
Competitive rivalry: Intense as major players continuously invest in technology and capacity expansion to gain market share.
Geographical Regions
North America dominated the Microfibrillated Cellulose Market Regional in terms of value in 2020 led by strong demand from end use industries like paper, packaging and personal care in US and Canada. Growth is driven by stringent environment regulations favoring use of bio-based and biodegradable materials.
Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest growing regional market between 2024-2031 with CAGR of over 15% owing to rapid industrialization and economic growth in China, India as well as government support for development of bio-economy. Expanding packaging industry and adoption of advanced materials will drive MFC consumption in the region over the forecast period.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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