Global polycarbonate demand to slow to 5% pa between 2009-2015

15-Feb-10

Global annual polycarbonate demand growth is forecast to slow to around 5% between 2009-2015, from historical growth rates of around 7-8% as per Market Publishers.com Key optical data storage application will continue falling as it is superseded by other data storage options, losing its leading position to the electronics/electrical sector. Sharp growth in demand from Blu-ray players and personal computers, which is fueling triple-digit growth rates, will lighten the rate of decline. A steady growth is expected for film and automotive applications. Polycarbonate application in car windscreens remains a key target. Much of the new capacity is expected to serve local large volume, low-grade markets (packaging, water bottles). Polycarbonate is a high quality engineering plastic with a unique combination of properties including strength, lightness, durability, high transparency, heat resistance. Polycarbonate is extensively used in optical data storage applications (e.g. CDs, DVDs), safety equipment and lightweight, transparent roofing in building and construction, found in medical devices, electronics equipment, computer housings, cars, etc.