Market Analysis and Insights:
market for Nonwoven Fabric was estimated to be worth USD 29.34 billion in 2021, and from 2022 to 2030, it is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.84%, with an expected value of USD 50.38 billion in 2031.
The upward trajectory of the Nonwoven Fabric Market can be attributed to a multitude of influential factors. Initially, the surge in demand for nonwoven fabrics across diverse sectors including healthcare, automotive, and construction is a primary driver of the market's expansion. Nonwoven fabrics present numerous advantages compared to conventional fabrics, with attributes such as cost-effectiveness, lightweight properties, and excellent absorbency, rendering them well-suited for a broad spectrum of applications. Moreover, the increasing awareness surrounding the eco-friendly aspects of nonwoven fabrics, such as their recyclability and reduced water and energy consumption during production, is further stimulating market growth. Consumer preferences leaning towards hygiene products like diapers, wipes, and sanitary napkins that rely extensively on nonwoven fabrics are also instrumental in expanding the market. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing technologies improving the quality and durability of nonwoven fabrics are accelerating market growth. Lastly, the substantial investments by industry leaders in research and development endeavors geared towards innovative nonwoven fabric solutions are poised to catalyze market expansion in the foreseeable future.
Nonwoven Fabric Market Scope:
| Metrics | Details |
| Base Year | 2023 |
| Historic Data | 2018-2022 |
| Forecast Period | 2024-2031 |
| Study Period | 2018-2031 |
| Forecast Unit | Value (USD) |
| Revenue forecast in 2031 | USD 50.38 billion |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 6.84% during 2022-2031 |
| Segment Covered | By Layer, By Function, By Technology, By Technology, By Polymer Type, By Application, By Region. |
| Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa |
| Key Players Profiled | Kimberly-Clark Corporation, DuPont de Nemours Inc., Berry Global Inc., Ahlstrom-Munksjo Oyj, Freudenberg SE, Toray Industries Inc., Mogul Group, Fitesa, Fiberweb (India) Ltd., and Suominen Corporation. |
Market Definition
A nonwoven fabric is a type of textile material that is produced by bonding fibers together instead of being woven. This unique fabric is known for its wide range of uses, such as in filtration systems, medical supplies, and single-use products.
Nonwoven fabric, with its exceptional properties, holds a significant position across diverse industries as a crucial material. The fabric's durability, lightness, and breathability make it a prevalent choice in manufacturing various products. Its versatility allows for application in hygiene products, medical equipment, filtration systems, geotextiles, and automotive parts. The fabric's adaptability to customization based on specific requirements further amplifies its significance. Additionally, its cost-efficient production and performance make it a preferred option for numerous businesses. With a broad spectrum of applications and advantages, nonwoven fabric continues to serve as a valuable substance enriching different sectors and enhancing product quality.
Key Market Segmentation:
Insights On Key Layer
Multi Layer
The Multi Layer fabrics is expected to dominate the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market. This can be attributed to the numerous advantages offered by multi-layer nonwoven fabrics compared to single-layer ones. Multi-layer nonwoven fabrics typically consist of multiple layers of fibers bonded together, resulting in improved strength, durability, and performance. These fabrics are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including hygiene products, medical equipment, automotive components, and filtration systems. The demand for multi-layer nonwoven fabrics is driven by their superior properties, such as higher absorption, enhanced liquid barrier capabilities, and improved dimensional stability. With the growing demand for high-performance and sustainable materials in various industries, the multi-layer part is expected to dominate the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market.
Single Layer
While the Multi Layer fabrics is expected to dominate the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market, the Single Layer fabrics also holds significant importance. Single-layer nonwoven fabrics consist of a single layer of fibers bonded together, offering simplicity and cost-effectiveness. These fabrics find applications in a variety of industries, such as agriculture, construction, packaging, and disposable products. Single-layer nonwoven fabrics are preferred in situations where strength and absorbency are not primary requirements, and cost plays a crucial role. Although the demand for single-layer nonwoven fabrics may not surpass that of multi-layer fabrics, it remains a significant part in the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market due to its versatility and affordability.
Insights On Key Function
Non-disposable
Non-disposable nonwoven fabric is expected to dominate the global nonwoven fabric market. Non-disposable nonwoven fabrics are widely used in various industries such as automotive, healthcare, construction, and geotextiles, among others. These fabrics are favored for their durability, strength, and resistance to wear and tear. The demand for non-disposable nonwoven fabric is driven by the growing need for durable and long-lasting materials in these industries. Additionally, the increasing use of non-disposable nonwoven fabrics in geotextiles for soil stabilization and erosion control further contributes to its dominant position in the global market. With advancements in technology leading to the development of improved nonwoven fabric properties, such as enhanced strength and biodegradability, the dominance of the non-disposable part is expected to continue in the future.
Disposable
Disposable nonwoven fabric also holds a significant share in the global nonwoven fabric market. Disposable nonwoven fabrics find extensive applications in the healthcare sector, including surgical masks, gowns, drapes, and wipes. The rising concern for infection control and stringent regulations in the healthcare industry drive the demand for disposable nonwoven fabrics. Moreover, the increasing awareness regarding personal hygiene and the need for convenient and hygienic products further contribute to the demand for disposable nonwoven fabrics. Although the disposable part is not expected to dominate the market like non-disposable nonwoven fabric, it remains a crucial part of the global nonwoven fabric market due to its wide range of applications in healthcare and personal care industries.
Insights On Key Technology
Spunbond
Spunbond is expected to dominate the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market. Spunbond technology is widely used in the production of nonwoven fabrics due to its excellent strength, durability, and breathability. Its ability to be rapidly produced, combined with its cost-effectiveness, makes it a popular choice for various applications such as hygiene products, geotextiles, automotive, and packaging. The increased demand for disposable products, growing awareness of personal hygiene, and the expansion of the healthcare sector are expected to drive the growth of the spunbond nonwoven fabric market.
Wet Laid
Wet laid technology is another important player in the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market. Wet laid nonwoven fabrics are known for their high absorbency and smooth surface. They find extensive usage in industries such as healthcare, filtration, and construction. The wet laid process involves dispersing fibers in an aqueous medium and then forming a mat using water as a carrier. Although wet laid nonwoven fabrics have various advantages, such as flexibility and good drapeability, they are expected to have a slightly lower market share compared to spunbond due to the higher production costs associated with the wet laid process.
Dry Laid
Dry laid technology is also a significant share in the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market. Dry laid nonwoven fabrics are made by directly laying and arranging fibers using air as a medium. This technology enables the production of nonwoven fabrics with a range of properties, such as high tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and excellent uniformity. Dry laid nonwoven fabrics are used in numerous applications, including automotive, construction, and furniture. However, their market dominance might be overshadowed by the popularity of spunbond technology, which offers similar benefits with lower production costs.
Others
The Others includes various technologies that are less dominant in the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market. This category encompasses niche technologies such as meltblown, needle punch, and airlaid. Meltblown technology is known for producing fine fibers with exceptional filtration efficiency, making it crucial in applications like face masks and air filters. Needle punch technology is valued for its ability to create textiles with high durability, making it suitable for applications like carpets and geotextiles. Airlaid technology is commonly used in products that require high absorbency, like feminine hygiene products and air fresheners. While these technologies have their own specific applications, their market shares are expected to be relatively smaller compared to spunbond, wet laid, and dry laid technologies.
Insights On Key Polymer Type
Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene (PP) is expected to dominate the global nonwoven fabric market. PP is widely used in numerous applications such as hygiene products, automotive components, and geotextiles. Its popularity can be attributed to its strong physical properties, including high tensile strength, durability, and moisture resistance. Additionally, PP nonwoven fabrics offer cost-effectiveness and ease of manufacturing, making them a preferred choice for a broad range of industries. The versatility and wide range of applications of PP nonwoven fabrics contribute to its dominance in the market.
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene (PE) is another prominent player in the global nonwoven fabric market. PE nonwoven fabrics find extensive usage in disposable products, packaging materials, and medical applications. These fabrics offer excellent chemical resistance, flexibility, and lightweight characteristics. The demand for PE nonwoven fabrics is driven by their reliable barrier properties, breathability, and affordability. Although PE is expected to have a substantial market share, it is likely to be outpaced by the dominance of PP nonwoven fabrics.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) nonwoven fabrics also hold a significant position in the global nonwoven fabric market. PET is widely used in applications such as geotextiles, construction, filtration, and automotive. PET nonwoven fabrics offer exceptional strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to chemicals and UV radiation. The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials has further fueled the growth of PET nonwoven fabrics. However, while PET has a strong presence, it is expected to have a lesser market share compared to PP nonwoven fabrics.
Wood Pulp
Wood pulp-based nonwoven fabrics have gained traction in recent years due to their biodegradable and sustainable nature. These fabrics find applications in sectors such as personal care products, wipes, and filtration. Wood pulp nonwoven fabrics are known for their softness, absorbency, and skin-friendly properties. Despite these advantages, the dominance of PP nonwoven fabrics is expected to overshadow the market share of wood pulp-based fabrics.
Rayon
Rayon nonwoven fabrics are derived from natural sources, making them a preferred option in sustainable and eco-friendly applications. Rayon fabrics offer excellent absorbency, breathability, and drapability, making them suitable for hygiene products, medical applications, and apparel. However, the dominance of PP nonwoven fabrics is likely to limit the market share of rayon-based fabrics.
Others
Other players of the By Polymer Type category, including materials like nylon and polylactic acid (PLA), have niche applications in the nonwoven fabric market. While these materials showcase certain advantages such as improved strength or biodegradability, they are expected to have a relatively smaller market share compared to the dominating PP nonwoven fabrics.
Insights On Key Application
Hygiene
The hygiene application is expected to dominate the global nonwoven fabric market. Nonwoven fabrics find extensive usage in the hygiene industry, including products such as baby diapers, adult incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, and wipes. The increasing global population, growing awareness about personal hygiene, and changing lifestyles are key factors driving the demand for these products. Nonwoven fabrics offer various advantages such as softness, absorbency, fluid resistance, and comfort, making them ideal for use in hygiene applications. With the rising demand for disposable hygiene products and advancements in nonwoven fabric technology, the hygiene part is expected to maintain its dominance in the global market.
Medical
The medical application is another significant player of the global nonwoven fabric market. Nonwoven fabrics are widely used in medical applications such as surgical gowns, drapes, masks, wound dressings, and disposable medical supplies. The healthcare industry's increasing focus on infection prevention and control, coupled with the need for cost-effective and disposable medical products, fuels the demand for nonwoven fabrics in the medical sector. Nonwoven fabrics offer excellent barrier properties, high levels of comfort, and sterilization compatibility, making them an ideal choice for medical applications. With the growing healthcare infrastructure and increasing healthcare expenditure worldwide, the medical part is expected to witness substantial growth.
Filtration
The filtration application is another important category within the global nonwoven fabric market. Nonwoven fabrics are extensively used in various filtration applications, including air and liquid filtration. Nonwoven filters exhibit high efficiency, permeability, and dust-holding capacity, making them suitable for applications such as HVAC systems, automotive filters, industrial filtration, and water purification. Increasing concerns regarding air and water pollution, along with stringent regulatory standards for clean environments, drive the demand for nonwoven fabrics in filtration applications. Consequently, the filtration part is expected to witness significant growth in the global market.
Automotive
The automotive application of the global nonwoven fabric market is characterized by the usage of nonwoven fabrics in automotive interiors, under-the-hood applications, and filtration systems. Nonwoven fabrics offer advantages such as sound insulation, thermal insulation, lightweight, and durability, making them suitable for automotive applications. Growing demand for comfortable, safe, and environmentally friendly vehicles, along with the emphasis on reducing vehicle weight to enhance fuel efficiency, boosts the adoption of nonwoven fabrics in the automotive industry. Although not expected to dominate the global market, the automotive part is projected to witness steady growth due to its specific applications.
Consumer Products
The consumer products encompasses a wide range of nonwoven fabric applications in various consumer goods. Nonwoven fabrics are used in products such as wet wipes, home textiles, furniture upholstery, disposable packaging, and personal care products. The convenience, versatility, and cost-effectiveness offered by nonwoven fabrics make them popular in the consumer products sector. Increasing consumer purchasing power, changing lifestyles, and demand for innovative and sustainable products drive the growth of this part.
Building & Construction
The building & construction utilizes nonwoven fabrics in applications such as roofing, wall coverings, geotextiles, and insulation materials. Nonwoven fabrics in these applications provide properties like water resistance, durability, thermal insulation, and sound absorption. The growing construction industry, particularly in emerging economies, and the increasing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable construction materials drive the utilization of nonwoven fabrics in building and construction. While not dominating the global market, the building & construction part is expected to witness steady growth.
Others
The others category represents diverse applications of nonwoven fabrics beyond the dominant parts mentioned above. This includes sectors such as agriculture, packaging, geotextiles, furniture, and industrial applications. While these applications may not individually dominate the global nonwoven fabric market, they contribute to the overall market growth. The versatility and adaptability of nonwoven fabrics enable their usage in various niche applications, catering to specific industry needs. The "others" part demonstrates the potential for further diversification and innovation using nonwoven fabric technology.
Insights on Regional Analysis:
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the Global Nonwoven Fabric Market. The region has been witnessing significant growth in the nonwoven fabric market due to several factors. Firstly, there is a growing demand for nonwoven fabrics in various industries such as healthcare, hygiene, automotive, and construction, among others. The rising population and increasing disposable incomes in countries like China and India have also led to an increased demand for products that use nonwoven fabrics, such as baby diapers, feminine hygiene products, and healthcare products. Additionally, the region benefits from favorable government policies and investments in the development of the nonwoven fabric industry. This, along with the presence of key market players and technological advancements, further drives the growth of the nonwoven fabric market in Asia Pacific.
North America
The North American region is also expected to witness significant growth in the nonwoven fabric market. The region has a well-established manufacturing sector and a strong presence of key market players. The increasing demand for nonwoven fabrics in various industries, particularly in healthcare, automotive, and construction sectors, is contributing to the growth of the market. Additionally, the region has stringent regulations regarding hygiene and safety, which further drives the demand for nonwoven fabrics in healthcare and personal care products.
Europe
Europe is another region that holds a significant market share in the global nonwoven fabric market. The region has a high adoption rate of nonwoven fabrics in various sectors, including healthcare, automotive, and construction. The presence of established players, technological advancements, and stringent regulations concerning sustainability and environmental protection further contribute to the growth of the nonwoven fabric market in Europe.
Latin America
Latin America is witnessing a growing demand for nonwoven fabrics, primarily driven by the healthcare and hygiene sectors. The increasing awareness regarding hygiene products and the rising disposable income of the population are key factors driving the market growth in this region. The automotive and construction industries are also contributing to the demand for nonwoven fabrics in Latin America.
Middle East & Africa
The nonwoven fabric market in the Middle East & Africa region is expected to show steady growth in the coming years. The region is witnessing a rapid expansion of industries such as healthcare, construction, and automotive, which is driving the demand for nonwoven fabrics. Additionally, the enforcement of strict regulations related to hygiene and safety in various sectors further boosts the market growth in this region.
Company Profiles:
Prominent entities in the worldwide nonwoven fabric sector are instrumental in spearheading innovation and technological progress in production methodologies to fulfill the increasing requirements for high-functionality nonwoven textiles. Moreover, they bolster market expansion through the adoption of impactful marketing tactics and the enhancement of their distribution channels.
Leading companies in the nonwoven fabric sector encompass Kimberly-Clark Corporation, DuPont de Nemours Inc., Berry Global Inc., Ahlstrom-Munksjo Oyj, Freudenberg SE, Toray Industries Inc., Mogul Group, Fitesa, Fiberweb (India) Ltd., and Suominen Corporation. These organizations serve as vital entities within the nonwoven fabric market, actively contributing to its growth and furtherance. Leveraging their profound knowledge base and market reach, these key stakeholders undertake various strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, alliances, and innovative product developments, to uphold their competitive standing in the field.
Engaged in continuous research and innovation, these entities consistently unveil cutting-edge nonwoven fabric offerings tailored to meet the varied requirements of sectors such as healthcare, personal care, automotive, and construction, among others.
COVID-19 Impact and Market Status:
The global nonwoven fabric market has faced notable disturbances as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, witnessing a surge in the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical resources, alongside a downturn in sectors such as automotive and construction.
The global market for nonwoven fabric has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily due to the increased demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks, gowns, and sanitary wipes in response to the surge in cases. Nonwoven fabrics, renowned for their superior filtration, absorption, and barrier properties, are extensively utilized in the production of medical goods, thus driving up the production of nonwoven fabrics to meet the escalating PPE demand. Moreover, the ened focus on hygiene and cleanliness to curb the virus transmission has increased the usage of nonwoven fabrics in diverse sectors including healthcare, household products, and automotive industry. Nevertheless, challenges such as manufacturing facility closures and supply chain disruptions stemming from lockdown measures have hindered the nonwoven fabric market. Despite these obstacles, as restrictions are gradually lifted and the demand for PPE remains high, the nonwoven fabric market is anticipated to witness growth in the post-COVID-19 era.
Latest Trends and Innovation:
- In November 2020, Berry Global Group, a leading nonwoven fabric manufacturer, announced the acquisition of Clopay Plastic Products Company. This move aimed to strengthen Berry Global's position in the hygiene market and expand its product portfolio.
- In April 2021, Kimberly-Clark announced an investment of $140 million to construct a nonwoven fabric production facility in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The facility is expected to meet the growing demand for nonwoven materials used in personal care products.
- In February 2021, Freudenberg Performance Materials, a global leader in nonwoven fabrics, announced the acquisition of Filc, a manufacturer of needle-punched nonwoven textiles. This acquisition aims to expand Freudenberg's product offerings in the automotive and construction sectors.
- In September 2020, Ahlstrom-Munksjö, a Finland-based company specializing in nonwoven materials, announced the development of "MOBLOC," a sustainable filter media made from 25% recycled polymer. This innovation aligns with the company's commitment to promoting circular economy practices.
- In June 2021, Toray Industries, a Japanese multinational corporation, introduced "Novel QWeave," a nonwoven fabric made from recycled plastics. This technological innovation contributes to reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability in the nonwoven fabric market.
- In March 2021, DuPont, a leading science and innovation company, announced the launch of its Tyvek 40L medical packaging fabric. This fabric provides enhanced microbial barrier protection and ease of sterilization for medical supplies, addressing the critical needs of the healthcare industry.
Significant Growth Factors:
The Nonwoven Fabric Market is observing vigorous expansion propelled by rising demand across a variety of end-use sectors including healthcare, automotive, and construction.
The global nonwoven fabric industry is observing remarkable growth propelled by various factors. Initially, the surging demand for nonwoven fabric in the healthcare sector is a driving force behind the market expansion. These fabrics find extensive use in the production of surgical gowns, face masks, and other medical textiles owing to their lightweight, breathable, and absorbent characteristics. Moreover, the increasing emphasis on hygiene and infection control measures is further boosting the utilization of nonwoven fabrics in the healthcare domain. Moreover, the automotive sector represents another significant growth opportunity for the nonwoven fabric market. Nonwoven fabrics are widely employed in automobile interiors, including carpets, seat covers, and headliners due to their durability, ease of manufacturing, and cost efficiency. Given the escalating global demand for automobiles, the automotive industry's need for nonwoven fabrics is anticipated to grow substantially. Furthermore, factors such as growing population, urbanization, and evolving lifestyle preferences are propelling the demand for hygiene products like diapers, feminine hygiene items, and adult incontinence products. Nonwoven fabrics are favored in these applications for their excellent absorbency, soft texture, and cost-effectiveness. Lastly, the increasing environmental consciousness and the shift towards sustainable products are encouraging the adoption of nonwoven fabrics. These fabrics can be recycled and have lower carbon footprints compared to traditional textiles. The convergence of these factors, along with advancements in technology and innovative product offerings, is poised to drive significant growth in the nonwoven fabric market in the foreseeable future.
Restraining Factors:
The Nonwoven Fabric Market encounters challenges stemming from the elevated cost of raw materials and restricted opportunities for recycling.
In recent times, the nonwoven fabric industry has encountered several challenges that have hindered its growth. First and foremost, the substantial expenses involved in producing nonwoven fabrics have presented a considerable obstacle. The manufacturing process necessitates specialized equipment and raw materials, leading to elevated costs. Moreover, the constrained availability of raw materials has had a negative impact on market expansion. The industry's reliance on synthetic fibers derived from petroleum makes it susceptible to fluctuations in crude oil prices. Furthermore, the disposal of nonwoven fabrics is a mounting concern due to their non-biodegradable nature. The absence of sustainable and environmentally friendly disposal methods gives rise to environmental and regulatory issues. Another setback lies in the limited awareness and appreciation of the advantages and versatile uses of nonwoven fabrics, impeding market growth. The conventional belief that nonwoven fabrics are inferior materials has restricted their adoption across various sectors. Additionally, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the market, disrupting supply chains and reducing demand in multiple end-user industries. However, despite these hurdles, the nonwoven fabric market holds promise for the future. The industry's increasing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendliness has prompted the development of biodegradable and recycled nonwoven fabrics. Companies are actively investing in research and development efforts to discover cost-effective production techniques. Furthermore, the escalating demand for hygiene products, medical supplies, and consumer goods presents opportunities for market expansion. With ongoing technological innovations and ened awareness, the nonwoven fabric sector is poised to surmount these challenges and experience steady growth in the years ahead.
Key Segmentation:
Layer Overview
• Single Layer
• Multi Layer Function Overview
• Disposable
• Non-disposable
Technology Overview
• Spunbond
• Wet Laid
• Dry Laid
• Others
Polymer Type Overview
• PP (Polypropylene)
• PE (Polyethylene)
• PET (Polyester)
• Wood Pulp
• Rayon
• Others
Application Overview
• Hygiene
• Medical
• Filtration
• Automotive
• Consumer Products
• Building & Construction
• Others
Regional Overview
North America
• US
• Canada
• Mexico
Europe
• Germany
• France
• U.K.
• Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• Rest of Asia Pacific
Middle East and Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Rest of Middle East and Africa
Latin America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The global Nonwoven Fabric market size is expected to reach USD 50.38 billion in 2031.
The Nonwoven Fabric market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.84% during 2023-2031
The top leaders analyzed in the Nonwoven Fabric market study are The major players in Kimberly-Clark Corporation, DuPont de Nemours Inc., Berry Global Inc., Ahlstrom-Munksjo Oyj, Freudenberg SE, Toray Industries Inc., Mogul Group, Fitesa, Fiberweb (India) Ltd., and Suominen Corporation.