Abstract
Demand to increase 5.3% per annum through 2010
Conductive polymer demand in the US is projected to grow 5.3 percent annually
to 550 million pounds (including both resins and additives) in 2010, valued at
$1.5 billion. Conductive polymers will provide a 435 million pound market for
base resins, with advances driven by the development of improved resin grades
with cost, processing and performance advantages. Other stimulants include the
proliferation of sensitive electronic devices and needs to protect them from
electrostatic discharge and electromagnetic and radio frequency interference,
as well as new technologies such as carbon nanotubes (fibrils) and inherently
conductive polymers.
ABS to remain dominant,PVC to be fastest growing
The six leading resins -- ABS, PVC, polycarbonate, polyphenylene-based resins,
polyethylene and polypropylene -- together accounted for more than
three-fourths of all conductive polymers used in 2005. ABS will remain
dominant as a result of the material's high impact strength. PVC will expand
at a faster pace, however, based on its lower cost, performance enhancements,
and design and processing ease. Polyphenylene- based resins such as
polyphenylene sulfide will experience greater use in high temperature and
chemical resistance applications, such as under-the-hood motor vehicle
components. Conductive polycarbonate demand will be fueled by the resin's high
impact strength, dimensional stability, and good mechanical and electrical
properties.
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