Electrolytic Copper Foil Market- By Thickness , By Application , By Geography - Global Opportunity Analysis & Industry Forecast, 2024-2030

Electrolytic Copper Foil Market Overview

Electrolytic copper foil market size is forecasted to reach $65.4 billion by 2030, after growing at a CAGR of 14.6% during 2024-2030.Electrolytic copper foil are ductile, malleable, and have good electrical as well as thermal conductivity that makes it suitable for the use in in various applications. Rapid growth and advancement of technologies in electrical and automotive sectors have propelled the growth of electrolytic copper foil market globally. Moreover, progress of telecom sector towards 5G broadband and connectivity has also boosted the electrolytic copper foil market size during the forecast period. The increasing adoption of 5G technology and the surge in renewable energy applications further contribute to the demand for electrolytic copper foil in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards (PCBs). Trends like miniaturization of electronic components and the transition towards flexible electronics also drive innovation in the electrolytic copper foil sector. Opportunities lie in the development of high-performance and cost-effective copper foils to meet evolving industry requirements, as well as expanding into emerging markets with increasing electronic manufacturing activities. Sustainable practices in copper production and utilization also present avenues for growth in response to environmental considerations.

COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a multifaceted impact on the electrolytic copper foil market, influencing both the demand and supply sides of the industry. The initial stages of the pandemic led to disruptions in the supply chain, with restrictions on transportation and manufacturing activities. Lockdowns and restrictions on movement hindered the production and distribution of electrolytic copper foil, affecting the overall supply. On the demand side, the market experienced fluctuations as several industries, including automotive and consumer electronics, faced disruptions. The slowdown in manufacturing activities and a decline in consumer spending affected the demand for electronic devices, impacting the utilization of electrolytic copper foil in the production of PCBs. However, as the pandemic unfolded, it became evident that the electronics sector, particularly with the increased demand for devices supporting remote work and communication, started to recover. The shift towards digitalization and the rising significance of technology in various aspects of life contributed to a rebound in demand for electronic components, including electrolytic copper foil.

Market Snapshot :-

Report Coverage

The report: “Electrolytic Copper Foil Market– Forecast (2024-2030)”, by IndustryARC, covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments of the electrolytic copper foil market industry.

By Thickness: Below 10 (micron metre), 10- 20 (micron metre), 20-50 (micron metre), Above 50 (micron metre)
By Application: Printed Circuit Boards, Lithium-ion Batteries
By Geography: North America, South America, Europe, APAC, RoW 

For more details on this report - Request for Sample

Key Takeaways

• Asia Pacific especially China has dominated the electrolytic copper foil market due to its large demand in automotive and electronics industry.
• Properties such as light weight, ductile, malleable, good thermal and electrical conductivity has augmented the growth of electrolytic copper foil market.
• Low environmental impact and rapid growth in demands of electric vehicles is driving the growth of electrolytic copper foil market.
• The outbreak of COVID-19 is projected to decline the growth of electrolytic copper foil market share during the forecast period.

By Type- Segment Analysis

On the basis of thickness 10–20-micron meter segment holds the largest share of more than 30% in the electrolytic copper foil market in 2023. The amount involved in the reuse and recycling of micro thin chips gets reduced due to the decrease in amount of copper, thus saving the resources and augmenting the growth of electrolytic copper foil market. Also a thinner copper foil requires less energy in manufacturing and transportation resulting in conservation of energy and resources.

By Application - Segment Analysis

Printed circuit board segment holds the largest share of more than 60% in the electrolytic copper foil market in 2023. Copper being an excellent thermal and electrical conductor, improves the heat transfer capacity along and across the printed circuit boards (PCB) and reduces the stress caused by uneven heating of PCB which results in its failure. Moreover, due to its excellent electrical conductivity it can transfer electrical signals without delay. 

Apart from PCB electrolytic copper foil has also found its way in batteries industry. They are used as a negative electrode collector in lithium-ion batteries.  Thus increase in demand of electric powered equipment’s has fueled the growth of global electrolytic copper foil market. 

Geography- Segment Analysis

Asia pacific dominated the electrolytic copper foil market with a share of more than 35% in 2023 followed by North America and Europe. Continuous rise in end use industries like automotive, and electronics and higher income has fueled the growth of electrolytic copper foil market in these regions. According to International Energy Agency (IEA), electric cars demand has grown rapidly and there were 10 million of electric passenger cars sold in 2022. Furthermore rising population and increase in demand for high quality products has also enhanced the growth of market.

Electrolytic Copper Foil Market Drivers

Growing demand of lithium-ion batteries in automotive sector

The growing demand for lithium-ion batteries in the automotive sector serves as a significant driver for the electrolytic copper foil market. Several factors contribute to this trend, emphasizing the crucial role of copper foil in the production of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs). The global automotive industry is experiencing a paradigm shift towards electric vehicles as countries and automakers commit to reducing carbon emissions. Governments worldwide are implementing stricter emission standards, incentivizing the production and adoption of electric vehicles. This shift has led to an increased demand for lithium-ion batteries, which rely on copper foil as a critical component. Lithium-ion batteries are the preferred energy storage solution for electric vehicles due to their high energy density, longer lifespan, and lighter weight compared to traditional batteries. Copper foil plays a vital role in the construction of battery cells, serving as a key material for anode and cathode coatings, facilitating efficient energy transfer within the battery.

Increase in demands of electrical products

The increase in demand for electrical products is a crucial driver for the electrolytic copper foil market. Several factors contribute to this growing demand, highlighting the integral role of copper foil in various electrical applications. The proliferation of consumer electronics, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic gadgets, is a major contributor to the increased demand for electrical products. Copper foil is widely used in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards (PCBs) for these devices. The miniaturization trend in electronics and the need for high-performance components drive the demand for advanced PCBs, fueling the requirement for copper foil. Continuous innovations and technological advancements in the electronics industry lead to the development of new and advanced electronic products. These innovations often require high-performance materials, including copper foil, to meet the evolving specifications of modern electronic devices and ensure optimal functionality.

Electrolytic Copper Foil Market Challenges

High manufacturing cost of electrolytic copper foil

Copper foils used in PCBs and lithium-ion batteries are very thin. Advanced technology coupled with huge number of resources is needed to get the desired thickness of copper foil. Thus higher manufacturing cost of electrolytic copper foil act as a restraint for their market growth. 

Market Landscape

Technology launches, acquisitions and R&D activities are key strategies adopted by players in the electrolytic copper foil market report. In 2023, the market of electrolytic copper foil top 10 companies accounting for xx% of the electrolytic copper foil market share. The electrolytic copper foil market industry outlook are Mitsui Mining and Smelting, Hitachi Cable, Furukawa Electric, JX Nippon Mining & Metal, Kingboard Chemical, Tongling Nonferrous Metal Group, The 3M Chemical Company among others.

Acquisition / Developments

• In Sept 2023, Lotte Energy Materials Corp., plans to build a copper foil plant in the US to meet growing demand for battery components from electric vehicle makers in North America. This strategic expansion aligns with the broader industry trend of enhancing domestic production capabilities to ensure a stable and efficient supply of essential materials, further solidifying Lotte Energy Materials Corp.'s position as a major player in the copper foil market
• In July 2023, Lotte Chemical announced to invest $2.3B through 2028 to boost production of copper foil for EV batteries. This strategic move positions Lotte Chemical as a key player in the supply chain, poised to cater to the surging demand for copper foil and support the rapid growth of the electric vehicle market worldwide.

For more Chemicals and Materials Market reports, please click here