U.S. Acetylene Black Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Powder Form and Granular Form), By Application (Adhesives/Sealants/Coatings, Batteries, Rubber, Greases, Cosmetics & Personal Care, and Others), and Country Forecast, 2023-2030

The U.S. acetylene black market size was worth USD 24.9 million in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% during the forecast period.

The acetylene black is derived by decomposing acetylene gas at elevated temperatures. It has exceptional electrical conductivity and, hence, is used in electrodes for batteries and fuel cells, coatings, conductive rubber, and electrodes. The rising need for conductive additives in several industries is driving the product demand in the U.S. Furthermore, the product demand is anticipated to rise with the increasing use of energy storage, electric vehicles, and electronic devices. The rubber and tire industry also presents a sizable opportunity as the product improves the mechanical properties of rubber compounds by acting as a reinforcing filler. The thriving automobile industry and the demand for high performance tires further aids market growth.

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown measures reduced demand for rubber goods, disrupted the global supply chain, and forced the temporary shutdown of industrial facilities. This resulted in a decrease in acetylene black demand from end-use sectors, such as rubber, automotive, and plastics.

U.S. Acetylene Black Market Trends

Increasing Emphasis on Energy Storage Systems is Expected to Boost Market in the U.S.

Energy storage systems, such as lithium-ion batteries, present a significant opportunity for the U.S. acetylene black market growth. Due to high electrical conductivity, the product can be utilized as a conductive additive in battery electrodes. Acetylene black aids in improving the function ability and effectiveness of energy storage systems. The conductivity and charge-discharge of the battery can be boosted by the product, leading to increased energy storage capacity and longer-lasting batteries. Additionally, increased surface area if the product enables quicker ion movement and enhanced electrochemical performance. With the growing demand for energy storage in renewable energy integration, EVs and grid-scale projects are expected to increase product consumption over the forecast period.

U.S. Acetylene Black Market Growth Factors

Rising Electric Vehicle Sales to Foster Market Growth

The increasing demand for batteries in the U.S. has been the driving force behind the market growth. Acetylene black is known for electrical conductivity and is a crucial component in battery technology, particularly in lithium-ion batteries. The demand for high-performance batteries is rising due to increasing adoption of electric vehicles, renewable energy storage solutions, and portable electronics.

In 2022, the U.S. witnessed strong growth in electric sales, with sales increasing by 55%, according to the International Energy Agency. Several schemes, such as consumer incentives, federal tax credits, and inflation reduction act back the U.S. inclination toward the adoption of EVs. Advancements in battery technology for various applications will continue to play a more significant role in shaping the market.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Availability of Alternative Materials and Environmental Regulations to Impede Market Growth

There are a number of other materials that can be used in place of acetylene black, including conductive polymers, carbon nanotubes, and graphene. These materials offer the same properties as acetylene black, and are produced at lower cost. Hence, these materials may be advantageous for end-users. Further, acetylene black production and usage are subjected to environmental regulations and standards. Stringent regulations on emissions and environmental impact will limit the production as the acetylene gas, the raw material used, is derived from fossil fuels. Hence, fluctuating supply is creating uncertainty in the U.S. market.

U.S. Acetylene Black Market Segmentation Analysis

By Type Analysis

Based on type, the market is segmented into powder form and granular form.

The powder form segment accounted for the highest share in 2022 and is likely to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. This type is extensively used in the rubber industry as a reinforcing filler to improve the mechanical properties of rubber compounds. It is also utilized in a variety of other applications where a large surface area and electrical conductivity are required. The demand for powder form is primarily driven by rubber industry growth and its application in electronics and specialty inks.

The granular form of the product is frequently used as a conductive addition in the production of dry cells and batteries, where it improves electrical conductivity and increases battery life. The demand for this type is prompted by a rise in the battery industry, particularly for dry cells and batteries used in various modern gadgets.

By Application Analysis

Based on application, the market is segmented into adhesives/sealants/coatings, batteries, rubber, greases, cosmetics & personal care, and others.

The batteries segment holds the largest U.S. acetylene black market share and is likely to expand rapidly during the forecast period. The growth of portable electronics, such as tablets, smartphones, and others, bolsters the product demand in the batteries industry. The batteries market is continually evolving, with increasing emphasis on energy storage technologies, renewable energy applications, and electric vehicles.

Acetylene black is used as a reinforcing filler in adhesives, sealants, and coatings. It enhances the mechanical properties, improves wear resistance, and provides electrical conductivity in specific applications.

The rubber industry is one of the major consumers of the product, and the market demand for this carbon black variant is directly related to the growth of the automotive transportation and manufacturing sectors.

List of Key Companies in U.S. Acetylene Black Market

Key players include Orion S.A., Jiaozuo City Hexing Chemical Industry Co. Ltd, and Denka Company Limited, among others. Several players operate through multiple subsidiaries that manufacture and supply their products in the U.S.  Whereas, several players are adopting various strategies for maintaining and enhancing their market positions.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Asbury Carbons Inc. (U.S.)


• Orion S.A. (Luxembourg)


• Denka Company Limited (Japan)


• Jiaozuo City Hexing Chemical Industry Co. Ltd (China)


• Ningxia Jinhua Chemical Co., Ltd. (China)


• Tianjin Yiborui Chemical Co., Ltd. (China)


• West Chemicals Co. (U.S.)


• HENAN JINHE INDUSTRY CO., LTD. (China)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• May 2023 - Denka Company Limited announced that it has signed an agreement with a global microwave plasma technology provider company, Transform Materials LLC, for the installation of the research and development facility for releasing the low-carbon production of acetylene. The move is anticipated to enable the company to achieve carbon neutrality under its mission in 2030.


• April 2023 - Mill Rock Capital, a private investment firm, announced that it has acquired Asbury Carbons. With this acquisition, Mill Rock Capital formed a new platform, Mill Rock Advanced Materials LLC. The new platform will focus on investments in advanced materials and industrial additive solutions markets.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report thoroughly examines key factors such as leading companies, applications, and products. It also provides market trends and highlights significant industry advancements. The study includes variables that have contributed to the market's growth in recent years and the factors listed above. It examines the industry's newest market dynamics and opportunities, historical data, and revenue growth estimates at the country levels.

Report Scope & Segmentation