3D printing extrusion materials, also known as filaments, are the basis for additive manufacturing through fused filament fabrication. The 3D printing extrusion materials are designed to be fed into a 3D printer liquefier head, which melts the materials and lays down successive layers in a predetermined pattern to construct complex geometries and parts. Advanced materials such as thermoplastics, photopolymers, bio-derived polymers and composites and others are used as 3D printing extrusion materials.
The global 3D printing extrusion materials market is estimated to be valued at US$ 3 Bn in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 19.% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market Dynamics:
Rising Application in Medical Industry (mentioned as driver in the heading) is one of the major factors driving growth of the 3D printing extrusion materials market. 3D printing offers several advantages for medical applications including ability to produce customized implants and prosthetics, manufacturing of anatomical models for pre-surgery practice and tissue engineering. This has increased the demand for high-performance materials that can seamlessly integrate into biological systems. Moreover, biocompatible and bioabsorbable materials are being developed specifically for medical 3D printing applications.
The growing adoption of 3D printing extrusion materials across various industries such as automotive, aerospace, consumer goods and electronics is also fueling market growth. Lightweight and high strength materials are enabling complex designs that were previously impossible to manufacture using traditional methods. This has increased the applications of 3D printing in prototyping as well as production of end-use parts.
SWOT Analysis
Strength: 3D printing extrusion materials have strong mechanical properties that enable the creation of complex geometries. Their thermoplastic nature allows for high strength and durability in final parts. Molten extrusion materials can precisely bond layer upon layer, resulting in smooth surfaces without supports.
Weakness: Extrusion-based 3D printing has limitations regarding material choices and is best suited for functional prototypes rather than highly refined parts. Additional processing may be required to achieve visual aesthetics on par with injection molded plastics.
Opportunity: Advancements in material chemistry are expanding the range of properties achievable with extrusion feedstock. High-performance engineering resins with unique mechanical specifications continue to enter the market. New applications are being developed across industries like aerospace and automotive that leverage 3D printing for low-volume parts.
Threats: Availability of competitive additive manufacturing processes poses a threat as many can achieve better surface quality and resolution compared to fused filament fabrication. Low barriers to entry in 3D printer manufacturing have led to market saturation and price declines.
Key Takeaways
The global 3D Printing Extrusion Materials Market is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period of 2023 to 2030.
Regional analysis shows that North America currently dominates usage and is expected to remain the largest market through 2030 due to extensive adoption across various application areas. Europe and Asia Pacific show strong growth potential as 3D printing technology proliferates in important verticals like automotive, industrial machinery, and consumer products manufacturing.
Key players operating in the 3D Printing Extrusion Materials Market are Stratasys, 3D Systems, DSM, 3D Hubs, Arkema, Evonik AG, BASF SE, SABIC, LG Chem, Arevo Labs. The market demonstrates steady consolidation as larger firms acquire startups to expand material portfolios. Stratasys and 3D Systems have become dominant suppliers renowned for delivering reliable extrusion equipment and quality build materials to both individual makers and production environments worldwide.
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