United Kingdom Carbon Fibre Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

According to the report, the United Kingdom carbon fibre market size attained approximately USD 468.01 million in 2023. Aided by the increasing demand for carbon fibre in the aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy industries, the market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.90% in the forecast period of 2024-2032, reaching a value of around USD 720.23 million by 2032.

Carbon fibre, a material known for its stiffness, high tensile strength, low weight, high chemical resistance, high temperature tolerance, and low thermal expansion, is increasingly becoming a cornerstone in various high-performance applications. These fibres, about 5-10 micrometres in diameter, are composed mostly of carbon atoms. The carbon atoms are bonded together in microscopic crystals that are more or less aligned parallel to the long axis of the fibre. This alignment gives the fibre a high strength-to-volume ratio, making it suitable for structural applications where light weight and superior strength are essential.

The United Kingdom carbon fibre market is witnessing a dynamic shift across several sectors, predominantly driven by the aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy industries. Each of these sectors relies on the unique properties of carbon fibre to enhance the performance and efficiency of their products.

The United Kingdom carbon fibre market growth is significantly enhanced by the crucial role of the material in the aerospace industry to manufacture components that are both lighter and stronger than their metal counterparts. The UK's focus on increasing the fuel efficiency of aircraft and reducing greenhouse gas emissions has led to greater utilisation of carbon fibre in the design and production of commercial and military aircraft. Carbon fibre's resistance to corrosion also makes it ideal for aerospace applications, ensuring longevity and durability even under harsh operational conditions.

The flourishing automotive industry in the UK is another major consumer aiding the United Kingdom carbon fibre market expansion. As the industry moves towards electric vehicles (EVs) and seeks to reduce the weight of cars to improve battery efficiency and performance, carbon fibre is proving indispensable. High-performance vehicles also benefit from the reduced weight and increased rigidity provided by carbon fibre, which improves handling and speed while also supporting the structural integrity of the vehicle.

Renewable energy is another area experiencing a surge in carbon fibre usage, particularly in the production of wind turbine blades. Carbon fibre's ability to reduce turbine blade weight while maintaining strength is essential for efficient energy production, especially as turbine sizes increase. The UK’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity to meet carbon neutrality goals by 2050 is likely to bolster the further demand for carbon fibre in the coming years.

Despite these positive trends, the United Kingdom carbon fibre market development faces challenges related to cost and production complexities. Carbon fibre is typically more expensive than other materials like steel or aluminium, which can hinder its adoption, particularly in cost-sensitive industries. Additionally, the production of carbon fibre is energy-intensive and requires significant technical expertise, factors that can limit its widespread use.

However, key United Kingdom carbon fibre market players are responding to these challenges through innovation and research and development. There is a growing emphasis on recycling carbon fibre materials and developing more cost-effective manufacturing processes. Several startups and established companies in the UK are exploring new ways to reclaim and reuse carbon fibre from retired aircraft and vehicles, thus addressing environmental concerns and reducing production costs.

Furthermore, the UK government’s support for advanced manufacturing technologies and its push for a more sustainable industrial sector bodes well for the future of the carbon fibre market in the United Kingdom. Investments in technology innovation centres and funding for research into new composite materials are likely to propel the development of next-generation carbon fibres that could revolutionise multiple industries.

Market Segmentation

The United Kingdom carbon fibre market can be divided based on material, type, and end use.

Market Breakup by Material

• Pan Based
• Pitch Based

Market Breakup by Type

• Continuous Carbon Fibre
• Long Carbon Fibre
• Short Carbon Fibre

Market Breakup by End Use

• Aerospace and Defence
• Automotive
• Construction and Infrastructure
• Sporting Goods
• Alternative Energy
• Others

Competitive Landscape

The report looks into the market shares, plant turnarounds, capacities, investments, and mergers and acquisitions, among other major developments, of the leading companies operating in the United Kingdom carbon fibre market. Some of the major players explored in the report are as follows:

• Gen 2 Carbon Limited
• Crosby Composites Ltd.
• SGL Carbon Fibres Ltd.
• Hexcel Leicester
• Carbon Technology Ltd
• Mitsubishi Chemical Carbon Fiber and Composites
• Solvay S.A.
• Toray Industries Inc.
• Others