Worldwide sales of breathable films stood at around USD 2.9 billion in 2023. As per detailed industry analysis, the global breathable films market is projected to increase at a CAGR of 3.8% and reach a valuation of USD 4.2 billion by the year 2033.
Breathable films come across as cost-effective polymer-based films paving the way for moisture control in several applications inclusive of feminine hygiene, adult incontinence supplies, surgical drapes diapers, and adult incontinence products. These are the ones where breathability is a vital factor. Another crucial application of breathable films is roofing membranes.
The flourishing building & construction vertical coupled with the growing demand for food packaging is likely to accelerate the breathable films market in the forecast period. A few other advantages of breathable films include enhanced processability, a wide spectrum of breathability levels, extended shelf life, UV stability, exceptional dispersion, and likewise.
As a result of regular diapers, massive amounts of untreated waste and land pollution are created. These factors, combined with the increasing concern over the environment and the growing awareness among parents about proper baby hygiene, are driving the adoption of breathable films in biodegradable diapers.
The growing geriatric population with obesity rates is contributing to the increasing incidence of adult incontinence, contributing to the market's growth, as well. Apart from this, the growing investment in real estate projects is expected to positively influence the adoption of breathable films in the construction industry.
For instance, Textile back sheets from Trioworld provide breathable protection for sensitive skin. PE laminates and films are used in hygiene products such as surgical drapes, baby diapers, and adult incontinence products.
Printed breathable textiles are produced by stretching the film to create micro holes with breathable calcium carbonate. Printed breathable textiles reduce environmental impact. There is a green product portfolio and green solutions available from the company.
| Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Breathable Films Market Value (2023) | USD 2.9 billion |
| Breathable Films Market Expected Value (2033) | USD 4.2 billion |
| Breathable Films Market Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) | 3.8% |
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Global sales of breathable films have risen at a 4.1% CAGR between 2017 and 2022. Sales of breathable films are projected to expand at a 3.8% CAGR between 2023 and 2033. One of the main factors driving the growth of the breathable film market is the surging geriatric population across the world.
The reason for the change in growth rate is due to their properties such as excellent dispersion, improved processability, a broad range of breathability levels, and extended shelf life of the product. Despite these prospects, breathable films act as an excellent moisture control barrier for packaged foods, extending shelf life by keeping them fresh for a long time.
With the population explosion, the demand for comfortable, hygienic diapers has increased. A growing number of working mothers is another factor driving the demand for breathable films.
Breathability could be referred to the resistance of a fabric to air movement inside and outside of construction or weave. It is a known fact that a baby diaper feels comfortable to use only with breathability. As such, rashes could be avoided, thereby helping with the freshness of the skin. The occurrence of diaper dermatitis could also be reduced by 50%.
On these grounds, Imerys is known for providing high-performance minerals used for producing breathable film for diapers and offering FilmLink products that are made out of fine-grade wet GCC (ground calcium carbonate). The circular and porous form facilitates optimum MVTR (moisture vapor transmission rate), thereby letting air and water vapor pass through fil, but obstructing moisture.
Future Market Insights predict a comparison and review analysis for the dynamics of the breathable films market, which is principally subjected to an array of industry considerations, as well as the availability of substitutes such as moisture barrier films, diffuser films, and waterproof films are expected to hamper the market growth.
The market has seen some recent advancements, such as the innovation of new lite film perforation technology. In May 2022, Innovia expanded its new film capacity in Germany by investing USD 70 million.
| Historical CAGR | 4.10% |
|---|---|
| Historical Market Value (2022) | USD 2.79 billion |
| Forecast CAGR | 3.80% |
Micro Porous Breathable Films to Bolster the Market
Breathable films are known for their high absorbency. This renders them suitable for various applications. Being porous curtails the accumulation of carbon dioxide. Breathable films also find their way to surgical apparel used in pharmaceutical centers and hospitals. These films also contain billions of micro-pores that are small than even water droplets, which create wonder for skin care products.
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Biodegradable Breathable Films to witness Surge in Demand
A Breathable film constitutes thermoplastic starch, a filler, a biodegradable resin, and a protein. ;Calcium carbonate ;is used for making mineral pyrogens, which, in turn, make breathable films. Of late, manufacturers abstain from using inorganic pyrogens. Along these lines, thermoplastic cross-linked natural polymer like corn starch is used for creating tortuous passages that account for film breathability.
Breathable films have polyester, polyethylene, and polypropylene as the base feedstock. The majority of raw materials used for producing textile films are derived from petroleum. Polyester is produced from coal, air, water, and petroleum. This goes without saying that the prices of crude oil are directly proportional to the prices of polyester.
The cost factor is the main restraint to the breathable film market. Another restraint is the slow degradation rate of diapers made out of breathable films, which could be a threat to the ecosystem stem. As of now, over 9.5 million kids in the United States alone use diapers.
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Based on material type, the market is segmented into polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, polyurethane, and others. Polyethylene holds a crucial market share as it is notably breathable and cost-effective.
Polyurethane stands second on this count. It is generally used for making liquid and viral barriers, waterproof-breathable medical textiles, wound dressings, and transdermal components.
According to the end-user industry, the breathable film market is classified into six categories: hygiene, medical, food packaging, construction, fabric, and others. Hygiene is a large application industry for breathable films. It is expected that the breathable film market in this application may continue to grow as baby diapers and sanitary napkins become prevalent in developing countries.
The medical application segment of the breathable film market is expected to grow at a notable rate during the forecast period. Surgical drapes and gowns have become increasingly breathable, which is expected to bolster the market.
North America holds a significant market share due to increasing building & construction activities all across the United States and Canada. Polyethylene films are used herein. Europe is expected to witness a surge due to growing demand from hygiene & personal care, textile, packaging, and pharmaceutical industries.
Asia-Pacific is expected to expand at a prominent rate in the breathable film market. As per IIP (Indian Institute of Packaging), packaging consumption in India has risen by 200% in the last 10 years. Growing demand for polyester in LATAM is expected to take it by storm in the forecast period. The Middle East and Africa are yet to pick up the pace.
Regions Leading in Breathable Films Market: Country-Wise Analysis
The increasing demand for hygiene products, sustainable packaging, medical products, and food packaging is driving the growth of breathable films in the United States.
As consumers in the United States become more environmentally conscious, there is a growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Breathable films can be made from recyclable materials, and they offer improved product protection and extended shelf life compared to traditional packaging materials.
Breathable films are widely used in medical products, such as wound dressings and surgical drapes, due to their ability to allow moisture to escape while protecting the wound or surgical site from contamination. Advancements in medical technology are leading to increased demand for these products.
Yes, India can be a profitable market for breathable films. India is a notably growing economy with a huge population, which presents a significant opportunity for breathable film manufacturers. India has a growing population, and hence there is a growing demand for hygiene products, such as diapers, feminine hygiene products, and adult incontinence products, which use breathable films as a key component.
There are also challenges in the Indian markets, such as a lack of infrastructure and high import duties on raw materials. Nevertheless, with the right strategy and partnerships, breathable film manufacturers can tap into the growing demand in India and establish a profitable market presence.
Inflows of Funds are Expected as Market Players Expand their Footprints
The breathable film market players are engaging in capacity expansion, acquisition, collaboration, and new product launches which would keep up the momentum.
Some of the Leading Players Operating in the Breathable Film Market
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Forecast Period | 2023 to 2033 |
| Historical Data Available for | 2017 to 2022 |
| Market Analysis | USD million for Value and MT for Volume |
| Key Regions Covered | North America; Latin America; Europe; The Middle East and Africa; East Asia |
| Key Countries Covered | The United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Peru, Germany, The United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, France, Russia, Poland, China, India, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, GCC Countries, North Africa, South Africa, and Türkiye |
| Key Segments Covered | Material Type, Film Type, End-user, Region |
| Key Companies Profiled | LyondellBasell Industries N.V.; DuPont de Nemours, Inc.; Kimberly-Clark Corporation; Berry Globaal Inc.; Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc.; Rahil Foam Pvt. Ltd.; Daika Kogyo Co. Ltd.; Fujian Xingyuan Industry Co., Ltd.; Toray Industries, Inc.; Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.; Nitto Denko Corporation; Trioplast Industries AB; Innovia Films; RKW Group; Fatra A.S.; Covestro AG; Arkema Group; Omya AG; Skymark Packaging; American Polyfilm |
| Report Coverage | Market Forecast, Company Share Analysis, Competition Intelligence, DROT Analysis, Market Dynamics and Challenges, and Strategic Growth Initiatives |
| Customization & Pricing | Available upon Request |
The market is valued at USD 2.9 billion in 2023.
The market is estimated to secure a valuation of USD 4.2 billion in 2033.
Through 2033, the market is projected to continue to expand at a CAGR of 3.8%.
Micro porous breathable films segment to command the market.
Between 2017 and 2022, breathable films sales climbed at a 4.1% HCAGR.
1. Executive Summary 2. Market Overview 3. Market Background 4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033 5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Material Type 5.1. Polyethylene 5.2. Polypropylene 5.3. Polyurethane 5.4. Others 6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Film Type 6.1. Micro-Porus 6.2. Monolithic/Non-Porus 7. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End-user 7.1. Food & Beverages 7.2. Pharmaceuticals 7.3. Personal Care & Hygiene 7.4. Apparel & Clothing 7.5. Building & Construction 8. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region 8.1. North America 8.2. Latin America 8.3. Europe 8.4. Asia Pacific 8.5. MEA 9. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 10. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 11. Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 12. Asia Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 13. MEA Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country 14. Key Countries Market Analysis 15. Market Structure Analysis 16. Competition Analysis 16.1. DuPont de Nemours, Inc 16.2. Kimberly-Clark Corporation 16.3. Berry Global Inc. 16.4. Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc. 16.5. Rahil Foam Pvt. Ltd. 16.6. Daika Kogyo Co. Ltd. 16.7. Fujian Xingyuan Industry Co., Ltd. 16.8. Toray Industries, Inc. 16.9. Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. 16.10. Nitto Denko Corporation 16.11. Trioplast Industries AB 16.12. Innovia Films 17. Assumptions & Acronyms Used 18. Research Methodology
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Breathable Films Market
