Silicon Metal Market: Global Industry Analysis by Market Share, Trend, Size, Competitive Landscape, Regional Outlook and Forecast (2024-2030)

Global Silicon Metal Market size was valued at USD 10.04 Bn in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 14.13 Bn by 2030, at a CAGR of 5 %.
Overview
Silicon metal is a gray and shiny semiconductor metal, also known as crystalline silicon or industrial silicon, and is mainly used as an additive for non-ferrous alloys which smelted from quartz and coke in an electric furnace. The classification of metallic silicon is usually classified according to the content of iron, aluminum and calcium, silicon metal is divided into different grades. Also, it is the base material for so many products; hence, it has an important role in the industrial and consumer sectors. The use of silicon metal for producing aluminum alloys holds the largest share in total silicon metal production. Aluminum alloys are used in producing automotive components and aerospace products. Silicon improves the strength, castability, and brittleness of the alloy; thereby, enhancing the alloy’s use for an increasing range of high-performance parts. The demand for silicon in the transport sector has grown significantly as a result of an increase in the use of aluminum-based parts as replacements for heavier steel or iron parts in automotive applications. increasing versatility of silicones, a key application of silicon metal, also drives the demand for silicon metal and boosts the Silicon Metal Market growth.

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Silicon Metal Market Dynamics
Growing Demand in the Automotive Industry to Drive the Market

Silicon metal is used as the base material for silicone and has a diversified range of applications such as sealants, lubricants, gaskets & seals, food additives, and cosmetics. Polysilicon, a product of silicon metal, is the base material for solar cells and semiconductor wafers. Silicon Metal is known as a semi-metallic or metalloid, having several of the characteristics of metals. It is the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust after oxygen, naturally occurring in various forms of silicon dioxide or silicates and very rarely in its pure form in volcanic exhalations. Most metallurgical silicon metal is used as an alloying agent in the aluminium industry due to its ability to increase the strength of aluminium. Demand from the aluminium industry has grown steadily in recent years due to increased usage of aluminium in structural engineering, aircraft manufacture and the automotive industry and driving the Silicon Metal Market growth. Aluminum alloys are lighter and more resistant to corrosion than carbon steel and are made by the addition of metals such as copper, zinc, magnesium, manganese as well as silicon. PCC Group has built in Iceland one of the most modern and eco-friendly plants in the world, which produces silicon metal. The plant in Bakki produces silicon metal with a very high content of pure silicon (Si ≥ 98.5%). Raw materials for this production include quartzite (a naturally occurring mineral made of silicon dioxide, SiO2), as well as coal and wood.

Silicon metals are also useful in the automotive industry as substitutes for heavier parts made of cast iron. Alloy wheels and engine blocks are vehicle parts, which are very often produced as aluminium casts with added silicon. Silicon metal is a key raw material for many industries. Without silicon wouldn’t be able to use computers, solar panels and many construction products. The new PCC plant, which produces silicon metal, uses only green energy from geothermal sources that Iceland is famous for. This allows us to offer the highest quality silicon metal, produced with three times lower carbon dioxide emissions in comparison to other factories.

The increasing adoption of lightweight materials in the automotive sector to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions is a significant driver for the silicon metal market. Silicon is used in the production of aluminum alloys, which are crucial for manufacturing parts such as engine blocks, pistons, and cylinder heads. As the automotive industry continues to prioritize sustainability and performance, the demand for silicon metal is expected to rise steadily.

Expanding Electronics Industry: Silicon metal is a fundamental component in the manufacturing of semiconductors and electronic devices. With the rapid growth of the electronics industry, Silicon Metal Market growth is driven by advancements in technologies like IoT, AI, and 5G, the demand for silicon metal is experiencing a surge. From smartphones and laptops to smart home devices and electric vehicles, silicon-based semiconductors are ubiquitous. As emerging technologies continue to evolve, the demand for silicon metal is projected to grow further. For instance, in electronics ultra-high purity grade silicon is used extensively in electronic devices such as silicon semiconductors, transistors, printed circuit boards and integrated circuits. Semiconductor-grade silicon metal used in making computer chips is crucial to modern technology

Infrastructure Development Driving the Market Growth

Infrastructure development contributes to growth and development through several channels, such as reducing transaction costs, increasing the durability of capital goods, fostering higher trade and investment, expanding demand and supply diversification and achieving economies of scale and scope.

Infrastructure projects, particularly in developing economies, are driving the demand for silicon metal and fuel the Silicon Metal Market size growth. Solar power projects are set up anywhere in the country, however, the solar power projects developed in scattered manner led to higher project costs per MW and higher transmission losses. Individual projects of smaller capacity incur significant expenses in site development, drawing separate transmission lines to the nearest substation, procuring water and creating other necessary infrastructure. It also takes longer time for project developers to acquire land, get all types of clearances and permissions, etc. which ultimately delays the project.

Silicon is used in the production of silicones, which are essential in construction applications such as sealants, adhesives, and waterproofing materials. With urbanization and industrialization on the rise, the construction sector's demand for silicon metal is expected to remain robust. Additionally, silicones find applications in various infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and buildings, further fueling the growth of the silicon metal market.



Growing Demand for Silicon Metal in the Renewable Energy Sector to Create Lucrative Opportunity for Market Growth

As the world moves towards renewable energy sources, the silicon metal market is presented with a significant opportunity. Silicon metal, a crucial component in producing solar panels and energy storage systems, is witnessing a surge in demand due to the expanding renewable energy sector. One key opportunity lies in the increasing adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology worldwide. With governments and industries prioritizing clean energy initiatives to combat climate change, there's a growing need for silicon metal for the production of solar cells. Additionally, the emergence of energy storage solutions such as lithium-ion batteries, which heavily rely on silicon-based anodes, further drives the demand. it is popular in the electronics industry and the solar energy sector (solar panels, silicon chips, semiconductors). It improves the properties of aluminum, such as strength, hardness, or fluidity. The addition of silicon metal makes aluminium alloys strong and lightweight.

The advancements in silicon production technologies, such as the development of more efficient production processes and the utilization of renewable energy sources in manufacturing, present avenues for cost reduction and sustainability, making silicon metal more accessible and environmentally friendly. Capturing this opportunity requires industry players to invest in research and development, enhance production capabilities, and establish strategic partnerships to meet the escalating demand for silicon metal in the renewable energy sector and is expected to drive the Silicon Metal Market growth.

Supply Chain Disruptions to Restrain the Silicon Metal Market Growth

The Silicon Metal Market faces a significant restraining factor in the form of supply chain disruptions. This stems from various factors including geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, natural disasters, and logistical challenges. These disruptions severely impact the availability of raw materials needed for silicon metal production, such as quartz and carbonaceous materials. Geopolitical tensions and trade disputes lead to tariffs, quotas, or embargoes on silicon metal imports or exports, disrupting the flow of materials between key producing and consuming regions. Natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods, damage production facilities or disrupt transportation networks, leading to delays or shortages in supply. Additionally, logistical challenges like port congestion or transportation bottlenecks impede the timely delivery of raw materials to manufacturing facilities.

These supply chain disruptions not only affect the availability of silicon metal but also contribute to price volatility and uncertainty, impacting the profitability and stability of businesses operating in the market. Companies must adopt robust risk management strategies to mitigate the impact of these restraining factors and ensure continuity in their operations.
Silicon Metal Market Segment Analysis

By Product Type:
By Product type, the metallurgy grade silicon is used as a deoxidizing and alloying agent to produce iron and steel products. Metallurgical-grade silicon is consumed in cast and wrought products. It is also used as a basic raw material in the manufacture of chemical products and intermediates, such as silicones and silanes.

By Application:
Based on product type, the aluminum alloy segment held the largest Silicon Metal Market share in 2023. Its versatile application as a strengthener and alloying agent in aluminum production solidified its dominance. As global automakers face intensified pressure to meet stringent pollution standards, the demand for automotive aluminum is poised for a surge. This is attributed to its lightweight nature, pivotal in pollution reduction efforts, propelling the segment's growth trajectory in the foreseeable future. Beyond aluminum alloy production, a considerable portion of silicon metal output fuels the production of silicones. These synthetic polymers find extensive use across diverse sectors including construction, automotive, transportation, and healthcare. With burgeoning demand, particularly in emerging economies, the silicone segment is primed for substantial growth, underscoring its pivotal role in driving silicon metal demand. The growing use of silicon metal as a semiconductor in various electronic devices. Many electronic companies are modifying the properties of silicon metal by using doping technology to make them suitable for electrical components. The semiconductor industry is followed by the solar panels application segment.
Silicon Metal Market Regional Analysis
Asia Pacific dominated the largest Silicon Metal Market share in 2023. This significant share is attributed to the presence of a large aluminum and silicone production base in China. The aluminum industry in China has made the most significant progress in two aspects. One is the annual output of primary aluminum which has continuously risen from roughly 400,000 tons in 1983 to 40.21 million tons in 2022, accounting for 58.8% of the total annual global output. Another aspect is the average total energy intensity (i.e. the average comprehensive AC power per tonne of aluminum), which has consistently decreased from 17,560 kWh/t-Al in 1983 to 13448kWh/t-Al in 2022, a reduction of 4112kWh/t-Al over the past 40 years. China's market is characterized by oversupply, prompting significant exports; however, recent trends indicate a shift as domestic demand surges.

Europe boasts a thriving silicone industry, steering the region's silicon metal Industry. The continent's prominence as a silicone producer fuels substantial demand for silicon metal. The rapid increase in the number of solar PV installations and the rising demand for smart electronic devices across the United States and Canada are driving Silicon Metal Market growth in this region. Europe is expected to grow at a moderate CAGR over the forecast period. Environmental restrictions on Silicon production facilities led to shutdowns and reduced production in European countries. The North America market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period. The growth factors such as the burgeoning electric vehicle market. This shift underscores evolving regional dynamics in the global silicon metal landscape.
Silicon Metal Market Scope: Inquiry Before Buying



Silicon Metal Market


Report Coverage
Details


Base Year:
2023
Forecast Period:
2024-2030


Historical Data:
2018 to 2023
Market Size in 2023:
US $ 10.04 Bn.


Forecast Period 2024 to 2030 CAGR:
5%
Market Size in 2030:
US $ 14.13 Bn.


 Segments Covered:
by Product Type
Metallurgy Grade
Chemical Grade


by Application
Aluminum Alloys
Semiconductors
Silicones and Silanes
Solar Panels
Others



Silicon Metal Market, by Region
North America (United States, Canada and Mexico)
Europe (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Austria and Rest of Europe)
Asia Pacific (China, South Korea, Japan, India, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Rest of APAC)
Middle East and Africa (South Africa, GCC, Egypt, Nigeria and Rest of ME&A)
South America (Brazil, Argentina Rest of South America)
Silicon Metal Key players
North America
1. S A Blackwell (United States)
2. ABSCO (United States)
3. Timminco
4. Group14 Technologies
5. WVA Manufacturing
6. GoSili

Europe
7. RW silicium (Belgium)
8. Elkem (Norway)
9. Ferroglobe
10. REC Silicon
11. ENERCO

APAC
12. Minhang Silicon (China)
13. Dadi Zelin Silicon (China)
14. simcoa (australia)
15. Arfin India
16. Ankit Metal & Power
17. Hoshine Silicon Industry (CHINA)
18. Xin Yuan Silicon Material Technology
19. Shyam Century Ferrous
20. National Silicon Industry
21. Sumco
22. General Steel Holdings (CHINA)
23. Ansteel

ME
24. National Metal Manufacturing And Casting

Frequently Asked Questions:
1] What is the growth rate of the Global Silicon Metal Market?
Ans. The Global Silicon Metal Market is growing at a significant rate of 5 % during the forecast period.

2] Which region is expected to dominate the Global Silicon Metal Market?
Ans. APAC is expected to dominate the Silicon Metal Market during the forecast period.

3] What is the expected Global Silicon Metal Market size by 2030?
Ans. The Silicon Metal Market size is expected to reach USD 14.13 Bn by 2030.

4] Which are the top players in the Global Silicon Metal Market?
Ans. The major top players in the Global Silicon Metal Market are Minhang Silicon, Dadi Zelin Silicon and others.

5] What are the factors driving the Global Silicon Metal Market growth?
Ans. The growth of huge electronic, automotive industries and solar projects is expected to drive the Silicon Metal Market growth.

6] Which country held the largest Global Silicon Metal Market share in 2023?
Ans. China held the largest Silicon Metal Market share in 2023.