The global composite release liners market is projected to experience significant growth between 2021 and 2026. These liners play a crucial role in the manufacturing of composite materials, particularly in processes like prepreg layup, vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), and resin infusion. As industries such as aerospace, automotive, wind energy, and marine continue to expand, the demand for high-performance composite materials—and consequently, release liners—is expected to rise.

Market Overview

Composite release liners are essential in composite manufacturing, serving as a barrier between the mold and the composite material to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal. They are used in various applications, including prepreg manufacturing, prepreg layup, infusion processes, and others. The market is influenced by the performance of major end-use industries such as aerospace & defense, wind energy, marine, and transportation.

Market Size

The composite release liners market declined by over 20% in 2020 and reached a value of US$ 338 million in 2020. Based on primary interview’ results and the study of recovery trajectories of previous market downturns, it is estimated that the market to recoup its pre-pandemic level by 2023, ultimately landing at an unprecedented market value of US$ 507 million in 2026.

Market Dynamics

Several factors are driving the growth of the composite release liners market:

1. Aerospace & Defense Sector: The aerospace industry is a significant consumer of composite materials, utilizing them in the production of aircraft components like wings, fuselage, and control surfaces. The increasing demand for lightweight and fuel-efficient aircraft is propelling the need for advanced composite materials and, by extension, release liners.
2. Wind Energy Industry: The growing emphasis on renewable energy sources has led to an increase in wind turbine installations. Composites are extensively used in wind turbine blades due to their strength-to-weight ratio, driving the demand for release liners in this sector.
3. Automotive Industry: The automotive sector's shift towards lightweight materials to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions is boosting the adoption of composites. This trend is expected to contribute to the market growth for composite release liners.
4. Marine Applications: The marine industry's need for durable and corrosion-resistant materials is fostering the use of composites, thereby increasing the demand for release liners.

Market Trends

• Material Innovation: There is a continuous effort to develop release liners that offer better performance, such as enhanced release properties, durability, and environmental sustainability.
• Automation in Manufacturing: The adoption of automated manufacturing processes in composite production is influencing the design and functionality of release liners, aiming for higher efficiency and consistency.

Regional Insights

• North America: Dominates the composite release liners market, driven by the presence of major aerospace manufacturers and a strong focus on renewable energy projects.
• Europe: Exhibits significant growth due to advancements in automotive manufacturing and wind energy projects.
• Asia-Pacific: Expected to witness the highest growth rate, fueled by rapid industrialization, infrastructure development, and increasing investments in renewable energy.

Competitive Landscape

Key players in the composite release liners market include:

• Airtech Advanced Materials Group
• Diatex S.A
• Gascogne Group
• Lintec Corporation
• Loparex LLC
• Mondi Plc
• Precision Fabrics Group
• Sappi Limited
• Solvay SA
• The 3M Company
• Wausau Paper (Part of Essity)

These companies are focusing on strategic initiatives such as product innovation, partnerships, and mergers & acquisitions to strengthen their market position.

Market Forecast

The composite release liners market is expected to reach a value of approximately USD 507 million by 2026, growing at a healthy rate during the forecast period. The increasing demand for prepreg in the aerospace & defense and automotive industries, along with the recovery in the sports & leisure market and sustainable growth in the wind energy sector, are major growth drivers for the market.

Conclusion

The composite release liners market is poised for substantial growth, driven by advancements in composite manufacturing technologies and the expanding applications of composites across various industries. Stakeholders in the composite manufacturing value chain should focus on innovation and strategic partnerships to capitalize on the emerging opportunities in this dynamic market.