+353-1-416-8900REST OF WORLD
+44-20-3973-8888REST OF WORLD
1-917-300-0470EAST COAST U.S
1-800-526-8630U.S. (TOLL FREE)

Metal Heat Treatment - Global Strategic Business Report

  • PDF Icon

    Report

  • 468 Pages
  • February 2025
  • Region: Global
  • Global Industry Analysts, Inc
  • ID: 5987716
The global market for Metal Heat Treatment was valued at US$98.0 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$126.5 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.7% from 2023 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions.

Global Metal Heat Treatment Market - Key Trends and Drivers Summarized

What Metals Benefit Most from Heat Treatment?

Heat treatment is a transformative process applied to various metals to enhance their physical and mechanical properties, enabling their use in demanding applications. Steel, one of the most heat-treated metals, benefits significantly from processes like quenching, annealing, and tempering. These techniques improve its hardness, tensile strength, and resistance to wear, making steel indispensable in construction, automotive, and aerospace industries. Cast iron, another metal frequently subjected to heat treatment, undergoes annealing and stress relieving to enhance machinability and reduce internal stresses, making it suitable for machinery parts and heavy equipment. Other metals, such as aluminum, copper, and titanium, are also heat treated to achieve specialized properties. Aluminum gains improved corrosion resistance and structural integrity, essential for aerospace and transportation applications. Copper and titanium see advancements in conductivity, ductility, and strength, supporting their use in electrical and medical equipment. Heat treatment processes cater to the distinct needs of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, enhancing their utility across industrial sectors.

Where Do Heat-Treated Metals Find Their Place in the World?

Heat-treated metals have become integral in various industries due to their enhanced characteristics. The automotive industry relies on these metals for components like gears, shafts, and engine parts, where hardness and durability are critical. Aerospace applications demand metals with high tensile strength and reduced weight, achieved through advanced heat treatment processes. In construction, heat-treated steel and rebar provide the structural strength required for modern infrastructure projects. Machinery and manufacturing sectors depend on treated metals to produce wear-resistant and durable components for heavy-duty operations. Metalworking applications, such as die-casting and forging, leverage heat-treated materials to ensure precision and reliability. Other specialized applications include medical equipment, where heat-treated titanium offers biocompatibility, and the electronics industry, where treated copper improves conductivity. Across these domains, heat-treated metals deliver performance enhancements that cater to industry-specific requirements.

What Are the Latest Trends and Technological Innovations?

The metal heat treatment industry is undergoing rapid evolution with the adoption of advanced technologies and techniques. Induction heating is gaining traction for its efficiency and ability to deliver precise, localized heating. Vacuum heat treatment is increasingly favored in aerospace and medical industries due to its ability to prevent contamination and oxidation. Electrically heated furnaces are replacing traditional fuel-based systems, reducing environmental impact and operational costs. The growing popularity of lightweight alloys, such as aluminum and titanium, has driven innovations in heat treatment processes tailored to these materials. Additionally, the integration of automation and data analytics into heat treatment operations enhances precision, minimizes errors, and optimizes cycle times. Sustainable practices, including energy-efficient furnaces and recyclable quenching media, are also becoming standard as industries prioritize environmental compliance. The use of additive manufacturing in conjunction with heat treatment to refine 3D-printed metal parts is another transformative trend, enabling unprecedented customization and performance in applications like aerospace and medical implants.

What Factors Are Driving the Growth in the Metal Heat Treatment Market?

The growth in the metal heat treatment market is driven by several factors directly linked to technological advancements, end-use applications, and industrial demands. The expanding automotive industry, with its emphasis on lightweight and durable components, is a major growth driver, necessitating advanced heat treatment techniques for steels and alloys. Similarly, the aerospace sector, fueled by increased air travel and innovations in aircraft design, demands heat-treated metals with high strength-to-weight ratios and exceptional fatigue resistance. Rapid urbanization and infrastructure development in emerging economies have led to a surge in the construction industry, driving demand for heat-treated structural components and reinforcing bars. The proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) has spurred demand for heat-treated materials in drivetrains and battery systems, underscoring the role of heat treatment in EV innovation. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing, such as additive manufacturing and precision engineering, rely on heat-treated metals for optimal performance and reliability. Regulatory compliance and the push for energy-efficient processes have also promoted the adoption of modern heat treatment technologies, ensuring environmental sustainability and cost savings. Together, these factors reflect the growing importance and versatility of heat treatment in addressing diverse industrial challenges.

Scope of the Study

The report analyzes the Metal Heat Treatment market, presented in terms of market value (US$ Thousand). The analysis covers the key segments and geographic regions outlined below.

Segments:

Material (Steel Material, Cast Iron Material, Other Materials); Application (Automotive Application, Industrial Machinery Application, Construction Application, Aerospace Application, Metalworking Application, Other Applications).

Geographic Regions/Countries:

World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; India; South Korea; Rest of Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Brazil; Mexico; Rest of Latin America; Middle East; Africa.

Key Insights:

  • Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Steel Material segment, which is expected to reach US$101.3 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 3.8%. The Cast Iron Material segment is also set to grow at 3.6% CAGR over the analysis period.
  • Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $14.1 Billion in 2023, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 5.0% CAGR to reach $28.5 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.

Report Features:

  • Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2023 to 2030.
  • In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
  • Company Profiles: Coverage of major players such as Advanced Heat Treat Corp., American Metal Treating Inc., Bluewater Thermal Solutions, Bodycote Plc, East Lind Heat Treat Inc. and more.
  • Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.

Why You Should Buy This Report:

  • Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Metal Heat Treatment Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments.
  • Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies.
  • Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Metal Heat Treatment Market.
  • Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions.

Key Questions Answered:

  • How is the Global Metal Heat Treatment Market expected to evolve by 2030?
  • What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market?
  • Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period?
  • How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030?
  • Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects?

Some of the 96 major companies featured in this Metal Heat Treatment market report include:

  • Advanced Heat Treat Corp.
  • American Metal Treating Inc.
  • Bluewater Thermal Solutions
  • Bodycote Plc
  • East Lind Heat Treat Inc.
  • General Metal Heat Treating Inc.
  • Metal Heat Co. Ltd.
  • Nabertherm GmbH
  • NATIONAL HEAT TREAT LLC
  • ONEX Corp.
  • Pacific Metallurgical, Inc.
  • Park Ohio Holdings Corp.
  • Peters Heat Treating Inc.
  • SECO/WARWICK, INC.
  • SEI Heat Treat
  • Thermex Metal Treating Ltd.
  • TRI J Metal Heat Treating Inc.
  • Unitherm Engineers Ltd.
  • Voestalpine High Performance Metals GmbH

Table of Contents

I. METHODOLOGYII. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. MARKET OVERVIEW
The Dynamics of the Global Heat-Treating Market
Metal Heat Treating Bears a Symbolic Relationship with Manufacturing Quality
Metal Heat Treatment Market Brimming with Steamy Growth Potential: Global Prospects & Outlook
Salient Drivers & Challenges to Watch-For
Analysis by Material
EXHIBIT 1: World Metal Heat Treatment Market by Material (2024 & 2030): Percentage Breakdown of Revenues for Steel Material, Cast Iron Material, and Other Materials
Analysis by Application
EXHIBIT 2: World Metal Heat Treatment Market by Application (2024 & 2030): Percentage Breakdown of Revenues for Automotive Application, Industrial Machinery Application, Construction Application, Aerospace Application, Metalworking Application, and Other Applications
Regional Analysis
EXHIBIT 3: World Metal Heat Treatment Market by Region (2024 & 2030): Percentage Breakdown of Revenues for Developed and Developing Regions
EXHIBIT 4: Global Metal Heat Treatment Market - Geographic Regions Ranked by Value CAGR for 2023-2030: China, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, Canada, USA, Europe, and Japan
Understanding Heat Treatment: Principles, Processes, and Applications
Heating Methods in Heat Treatment: Techniques and Applications
Metal Properties and the Impact of Heat Treatment
Metal Heat Treating: Key Issues & Considerations
Process Control in Heat Treatment: Key Elements and Strategies
Enhancing Heat Treatment Efficiency: Strategies and Innovations
Troubleshooting in Heat Treatment: Addressing Common Challenges
Precision Starts with Clean Surfaces: The Essential Role of Metal Cleaning in Heat Treatment
Metallurgy, Design & Machining Challenges for Heat Treatment Process
Economic Frontiers: Trends, Trials & Transformations
EXHIBIT 5: In a World Torn by Geopolitical Instability & War, Steadfastness of Global GDP Becomes Increasingly Unpredictable Given the Many Direct and Indirect Economic Repercussions: World Economic Growth Projections (Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Annual % Change) for the Years 2022 Through 2025
EXHIBIT 6: All Eyes on Global Inflation, the Main Risk Factor in Global Markets: Global Headline Inflation Rates (In %) for the Years 2019 through 2025
EXHIBIT 7: With Oil Prices Influencing the Rate of inflation, it Remains the Most Watched Commodity in Global Markets: Global Average Annual Brent Crude Oil Price (In US$ Per Barrel) for Years 2019 through 2025
Competitive Scenario
EXHIBIT 8: Metal Heat Treatment - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2024 (E)
Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2024 (E)
Select Innovations
Recent Market Activity
Influencer/Product/Technology Insights
2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS
3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS
Trends Shaping the Future of Metal Heat Treating
Key Industry Verticals Tapping Metal Heat Treating
Annealing Heat Treatment: The Science Behind Enhanced Material Performance
Steel Hardening Moves to the Next Level with Vacuum Quenching & Gas Cooling
Unveiling the Challenges: Common Defects in Heat-Treated Metals and Their Causes
Understanding Heat Treatment Challenges in Austenitic Stainless Steel: Ensuring Corrosion Resistance and Structural Integrity
Manufacturing Industry’s Transition to Precision Manufacturing Bodes Well for Market Growth
Use of Metal Heat Treatment for Manufacturing Automobile Components Witnesses a Robust Increase
Encouraging Outlook for Automobile Production in 2024, Despite Disruptions, Bodes Well for Market Growth
EXHIBIT 9: Global Motor Vehicle Production in Million Units: 2017-2023
Strong Outlook for Automotive Aftermarket to Benefit Demand for Metal Heat Treatment
As the Demand for EVs Increases, Demand for Heat Treatment on Metal Parts Registers Significant Growth
EXHIBIT 10: Global Electric Vehicle Sales in Million Units: 2019-2025
Steady Recovery in the Construction Sector Bodes Well for Increased Demand for Metal Heat Treatment
EXHIBIT 11: Global Construction Spending (in US$ Trillion) for the Years 2024, 2026, 2028, 2030 and 2032
Key Construction Industry Challenges and Trends to Watch for in 2024 and Beyond
Rising Industrial Equipment Demand Boosts Heat Treating Processes
Increasing Rate of Industrialization and Urbanization Catapults Growth of the Metal Heat Treatment Market
EXHIBIT 12: World Urban Population in Thousands: 1950-2050P
EXHIBIT 13: Degree of Urbanization Worldwide: Urban Population as a % of Total Population by Geographic Region for the Years 1950, 1970, 1990, 2018, 2030 and 2050
Encouraging Recovery of the Aerospace Industry to Spur Opportunities for Metal Heat Treatment of Parts
Rise in Aircraft Fleet to Support Demand for Metal Heat Treatment
EXHIBIT 14: Global Commercial Airline Revenues (in US$ Billion) for the Years 2010. 2015, 2020, and 2025
EXHIBIT 15: Global Commercial Aircraft Fleet Projections: Breakdown of Fleet (in Units) by Region for 2019 and 2040
EXHIBIT 16: Global Aircraft Deliveries by Region: 2021-2040
Renewable Energy Sector: A Catalyst for Metal Heat Treatment Market Growth
Spectacular Growth of Additive Manufacturing to Drive Demand Gains in the Metal Heat Treatment Market
EXHIBIT 17: Global Market for Additive Manufacturing (In US$ Billion) for Years 2021 2023, 2025, 2027 and 2029
Innovative Heat Treatment Makes 3D-Printed Metals to Endure Extreme Thermal Settings
Challenges and Solutions in Heat Treating Additive Manufacturing (AM) Parts
Mechanization of Agriculture to Drive the Demand for Metal Heat Treatment of Parts
EXHIBIT 18: Global Market for Agricultural Machinery (In US$ Billion) 2021, 2023, 2025, 2027 and 2029
Environmental Regulations Impacting the Metal Heat Treatment Market
Predicting & Limiting Distortion in Parts during Heat Treatment to Maintain Dimensional Accuracy
4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE
TABLE 1: World Metal Heat Treatment Market Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2030
TABLE 2: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Metal Heat Treatment by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 3: World Historic Review for Metal Heat Treatment by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 4: World 16-Year Perspective for Metal Heat Treatment by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 5: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Steel Material by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 6: World Historic Review for Steel Material by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 7: World 16-Year Perspective for Steel Material by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 8: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Cast Iron Material by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 9: World Historic Review for Cast Iron Material by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 10: World 16-Year Perspective for Cast Iron Material by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 11: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Other Materials by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 12: World Historic Review for Other Materials by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 13: World 16-Year Perspective for Other Materials by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 14: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Automotive Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 15: World Historic Review for Automotive Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 16: World 16-Year Perspective for Automotive Application by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 17: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Industrial Machinery Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 18: World Historic Review for Industrial Machinery Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 19: World 16-Year Perspective for Industrial Machinery Application by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 20: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Construction Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 21: World Historic Review for Construction Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 22: World 16-Year Perspective for Construction Application by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 23: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Aerospace Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 24: World Historic Review for Aerospace Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 25: World 16-Year Perspective for Aerospace Application by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 26: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Metalworking Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 27: World Historic Review for Metalworking Application by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 28: World 16-Year Perspective for Metalworking Application by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
TABLE 29: World Recent Past, Current & Future Analysis for Other Applications by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2023 through 2030 and % CAGR
TABLE 30: World Historic Review for Other Applications by Geographic Region - USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Markets - Independent Analysis of Annual Revenues in US$ Million for Years 2014 through 2022 and % CAGR
TABLE 31: World 16-Year Perspective for Other Applications by Geographic Region - Percentage Breakdown of Value Revenues for USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa for Years 2014, 2024 & 2030
III. MARKET ANALYSIS
UNITED STATES
Metal Heat Treatment Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in the United States for 2024 (E)
Market Analytics
CANADA
Metal Heat Treatment Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in Canada for 2024 (E)
Market Analytics
JAPAN
Metal Heat Treatment Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in Japan for 2024 (E)
Market Analytics
CHINA
Metal Heat Treatment Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in China for 2024 (E)
Market Analytics
EUROPE
Metal Heat Treatment Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in Europe for 2024 (E)
Market Analytics
FRANCEGERMANYITALYUNITED KINGDOMSPAINRUSSIAREST OF EUROPE
ASIA-PACIFIC
Metal Heat Treatment Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in Asia-Pacific for 2024 (E)
Market Analytics
INDIASOUTH KOREAREST OF ASIA-PACIFICLATIN AMERICABRAZILMEXICOREST OF LATIN AMERICAMIDDLE EAST
AFRICA
Metal Heat Treatment Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial - Key Competitors in Africa for 2024 (E)
Market Analytics
IV. COMPETITION

Companies Mentioned (Partial List)

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:

  • Advanced Heat Treat Corp.
  • American Metal Treating Inc.
  • Bluewater Thermal Solutions
  • Bodycote Plc
  • East Lind Heat Treat Inc.
  • General Metal Heat Treating Inc.
  • Metal Heat Co. Ltd.
  • Nabertherm GmbH
  • NATIONAL HEAT TREAT LLC
  • ONEX Corp.
  • Pacific Metallurgical, Inc.
  • Park Ohio Holdings Corp.
  • Peters Heat Treating Inc.
  • SECO/WARWICK, INC.
  • SEI Heat Treat
  • Thermex Metal Treating Ltd.
  • TRI J Metal Heat Treating Inc.
  • Unitherm Engineers Ltd.
  • Voestalpine High Performance Metals GmbH

Table Information