Ultra-Thin Glass Market Analysis

Ultra-Thin Glass Market Analysis

The overflow-fusion process segment will witness over 11% CAGR over the forecast timeframe. The process is an essential method employed in the development of glass sheets that are incorporated in TFT/LCD devices. The process begins by melting and mixing raw materials for the production of molten glass. This molten glass flows over the outer surface of the bath. The glass then cools down while flowing without coming in contact with any surface. The simplicity, effectiveness, and expanding uptake by several firms are primarily responsible for the high growth rate.
 

The float process segment will generate around 150 million sq. meters by 2028. This production process is widely adopted by manufacturers due to its ability to manufacture ultra-thin glasses of various thicknesses. It is the most common method adopted by Chinese manufacturers and thus has a higher demand & growth rate. Various additives are used in this process to enhance the chemical & mechanical properties of the glass. Ultra-thin glasses produced from this process provide high optical transparency, further accelerating the demand for ultra-thin glass manufactured using this process.
 

Less than 0.1 mm segment is emerging as one of the most popular and fastest-growing ultra-thin glass being used globally. The segment will hold over 30% revenue share by 2028 and is attributed to its rising applications in the Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) sector. Product penetration will increase due to smart technology demand, development trends in the automotive sector, and increasing applications of IoT. Less thickness of these glasses has led to their increased adoption in the electronics sector, amplifying the product demand.
 

The touch-control devices segment is projected to generate over USD 10.5 billion by 2028. Touch-control devices are mainly touch screen devices, which are an assembly of input (touch panel) and output (display). These devices enable the user to interact directly with the content that is displayed rather than using a touchpad, remote, mouse, or any such device. Due to societal conventions of social distance and widespread lockdowns, the COVID-19 outbreak has inevitably increased the usage of digital technology. Organizations and individuals around the world have adapted to new methods of working and living.
 

The Asia Pacific ultra-thin glass market is projected to generate over USD 14 billion by 2028 due to the flourishing electronics industry and increasing consumer disposable incomes. China has a strong electronics industry and contributes to market growth. Other countries in the region are also becoming manufacturing hubs for the automobile sector, which will further create product demand. The growing population coupled with rising standards of living is raising the demand for touch control devices. Furthermore, the strong growth in technology in developing countries including India, Malaysia, and Bangladesh will amplify the regional growth.