Europe Plastics for SLS 3D Printing Market Forecast to 2030 - Regional Analysis - by Type (Polyamide, Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK), and Others) and End-Use Industry (Healthcare, Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Electronics, Others)

The Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market was valued at US$ 58.43 million in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 245.41 million by 2030; it is estimated to record a CAGR of 19.6% from 2022 to 2030.

Growing Demand for Lightweight and Durable Parts in Various Industries Drives Europe Plastics for SLS 3D Printing Market

Plastic parts manufactured using SLS technology offer a compelling combination of lightweight design and exceptional durability, and this versatility has recently found notable applications across various industries. In aerospace, where reducing weight is a paramount concern for improving fuel efficiency, SLS-produced plastic components have gained traction. For instance, Airbus has integrated SLS 3D-printed plastic parts into their A350 XWB aircraft, including brackets and ducting components, which contribute to weight reduction without compromising strength or safety. The automotive industry has also embraced SLS plastic parts. Automakers such as BMW have used SLS technology to create lightweight and durable plastic components for their vehicles, including customized parts for the BMW i8 Roadster. These parts help reduce the overall weight of the car, enhancing its performance and fuel efficiency. Furthermore, in consumer goods, SLS plastic parts have made a significant impact. Companies such as Adidas have employed SLS 3D printing to produce customized midsoles for athletic shoes. These midsoles are not only lightweight but also designed to provide superior cushioning and support tailored to an individual's foot, enhancing comfort and performance. Hence, the strong growth in the demand for lightweight plastic parts from various industries is driving the need for plastic for SLS 3D printing, thereby fueling the market growth.

Europe Plastics for SLS 3D Printing Market Overview

SLS 3D printing is used to produce molds and fixtures for manufacturing processes. SLS 3D printing is utilized in producing complex and intricate geometries, as well as automotive interior components such as dashboard panels and center console parts. The automotive industry in Europe is constantly seeking ways to reduce vehicle weight to improve fuel efficiency and performance. Further, the growing automotive industry in the region is expected to drive the demand for plastics for SLS 3D printing. A 2022 report by the International Energy Agency stated that 2.3 million electric vehicles were sold in Europe in 2021 (a rise from 1.4 million in 2020). According to the International Trade Administration report published in 2022, increased investment in the automotive industry creates lucrative opportunities for automotive components and materials manufacturers. Turkey marked the presence of 48,000 hybrid and 2,000 electric vehicles on the roads and ~800 vehicle charging stations as of 2022. Several SLS 3D printing companies in the region launched product portfolios suitable for automotive interior components, gimbal bellows, air cleaner covers, hoses, grips, connectors, and joints. For instance, in October 2023, CRP Technology Srl announced the launch of Windform TPU for the SLS 3D printing process. In September 2022, Wematter partnered with OKM3D to establish a sales and service network for the Gravity SLS 3D printer in Germany. The partnership aimed at the business expansion of Wematter, providing the European market access to the Gravity 2022 SLS 3D printing. In May 2023, 3D Systems agreed on a deal for the acquisition of SLS 3D printing firm Wematter. Thus, advancements in the automotive industry and strategic initiatives by the market players in the region are projected to drive the demand for plastics for SLS 3D printing.

Europe Plastics for SLS 3D Printing Market Segmentation

The Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market is segmented based on type, end-use industry, and country.

Based on type, the Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market is categorized into polyamide, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), and others. The polyamide segment held the largest Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market share in 2022.

In terms of end-use industry, the Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market is segmented into healthcare, aerospace & defense, automotive, electronics, and others. The others segment held the largest Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market share in 2022.

Based on country, the Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market is segmented into Germany, France, Italy, the UK, Russia, and the Rest of Europe. The Rest of Europe dominated the Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market in 2022.

3D Systems Corp, BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, Arkema SA, Ensinger GmbH, Fiberlab SA, Stratasys Ltd, Sinterit Sp Zoo, EOS GmbH, and CRP Service SRL are some of the leading companies operating in the Europe plastics for SLS 3D printing market.