Silica Sand for Glass Making Market Snapshot (2023 to 2033)

The global silica sand for glass making market is expected to be valued at USD 5.7 billion in 2023. As per the research, the market is expected to register a CAGR of 4.1% between 2023 and 2033. The valuation is projected to cross USD 8.5 billion by 2033.

Significant factors which might propel the demand for silica sand for glass making are:

  • Surge in the construction sector
  • Rapid urbanisation worldwide
  • Product innovations

The construction industry is expected to make a massive impact on the silica sand glass market growth. The global construction market is expected to surpass USD 8 trillion by 2030, and is expected to record a CAGR of 4.7%. With a view to reduce carbon emissions, there might be an increase in the presence of green buildings.

The green building market presents large prospects in front of the market of silica sand for glass making. Based on the market research, the green building market is expected to cross USD 671.38 billion by 2032, growing at a sturdy CAGR of 13.6%.

Investors are also looking to pour huge amounts of money on LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building, as these have nearly 25% lower maintenance costs. The focus is expected to be more on residential buildings.

Significant growth in the demand for glass from automotive and construction sector is propelling the growth of silica sand. Urbanization, followed by higher investment by demography in vehicles and real estate sector are bolstering the glass industry. FMI also analyzed that the ultra-high pure glass segment is expected to witness a healthy CAGR over the upcoming assessment period.

According to FMI analysis, end-use industries including food and beverages, laboratory equipment and others are contributing to the significant demand for the glass. Recent developments witnessed in the market includes product innovations and decrease of carbon emissions, acquiring small and medium size manufacturers by prominent ones. These developments have resulted in increased supply for the material.

Product innovation is also expected to drive the market growth. Introduction of solar power glazing, application of nanotechnology, usage of hybrid guide plates, etc. are expected to drive the market growth.

However, market growth is plagued by several factors. One of the key factors is price hike along with inflation and comparative slowdown in the real estate business. Strict government regulations on mining and dredging activities are also expected to restrain the market growth.

Asia Pacific is expected to be the leading market during the forecast period. Increase in projects based on infrastructural development is expected to support the market growth. Government investments worth billions of dollars is also expected to drive the growth.

Attributes Value
Silica Sand for Glass Making Market Value (2022) USD 5.4 billion
Silica Sand for Glass Making Market Expected Value (2023) USD 5.7 billion
Silica Sand for Glass Making Market Forecast Value (2033) USD 8.5 billion
Silica Sand for Glass Making Market Expected CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.1%

Don't pay for what you don't need

Customize your report by selecting specific countries or regions and save 30%!

Historical CAGR (2017 to 2022) vs Anticipated CAGR: Stats Decoded

Increasing urbanization, exponential growth of construction sector, inception of green buildings and a lot more bring promising prospects for the market. However, supply chain disruption, which led to lack of raw materials and increase in price has led to the market experiencing a slump.

While the historical CAGR for the market was 4.6%, the anticipated CAGR during the forecast period is 4.1%. But, with a slew of product innovations, the market is expected to make up for the loss.

The researchers are of the view that the anticipated figures might surge, given the fact that normalcy has resumed to a large extent. With the massive growth of e-commerce, we might witness emergence of more and more inventory stores, which represents huge scope ahead.

  • Short Term (2023 to 2026): During this time frame, one might witness the market gaining normalcy after huge losses since the inception of COVID-19. There would be resumption of all those works, which were stopped midway. In the developed nations, there might be an increase in the construction work.
  • Medium Term (2026 to 2029): During this time frame, the automobile sector is expected to gain traction, owing to the introduction of electric vehicles. Thus, the automobile honchos might be expanding their footprints to increase the production of these vehicles in almost every part of the world. Furthermore, we might also witness an increase in the number of dark stores across the world.
  • Long Term (2029 to 2033): Finally, the market is expected to reap the fruits of its offerings. Owing to profitability, we might get to witness product innovation on a large scale. Therefore, the manufacturers are expected to invest on research and development activities.

Key Growth Driver for Silica Sand for Glass Making Market

The global glass market is influenced by food & beverage industry, as majority of manufacturers pack beverages as well as food items in glass bottles. Food & beverage is a large application segment of glass containers, accounting for a substantial market share as compared to other end-use applications.

Food & beverages segment is contributing to significant demand owing to the aesthetic appearance that can be achieved through the use of glass. Also, due to the transparent nature of glass, manufacturers can showcase the premium quality of the products inside. Glass, being a versatile material used in container manufacturing, also preserves the original taste or quality of the drink/product.

Glass containers are available in the market in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes according to the prevailing demands. Thus, owing to increasing application in food & beverages industry, silica sand demand for glass making is expected to augment market growth.

Nikhil Kaitwade
Nikhil Kaitwade

Principal Consultant

Talk to Analyst

Find your sweet spots for generating winning opportunities in this market.

Challenges faced by Silica Sand for Glass Making Market

Glass manufacturers are facing challenges such as frequent fluctuations in prices of raw materials, soda ash, packing material, freight, manpower, electricity costs, etc. Silica sand is one of the key raw materials used for glass manufacturing is largely imported from China, the United States and other regions.

Changes in government policies and depreciation of currency with regards to global market are anticipated to have a huge impact on total expenses.

High debt, high liquidity, and long working capital cycle of about more than 3-4 months have made many small players to close down their operations. Therefore, investments by the industry in anticipation of growth can turn out to be high risk affairs.

Country-wise Insights

Regions North America
Countries United States
CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.7%
Regions Europe
Countries United Kingdom
CAGR (2023 to 2033) 3.8%
Regions Asia Pacific
Countries China
CAGR (2023 to 2033) 5.1%
Regions Asia Pacific
Countries Japan
CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.7%
Regions Asia Pacific
Countries South Korea
CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.6%

What is the Demand Outlook for Market in the United States?

As per FMI, the United States is projected to account for a significant share in the global silica sand for glass making market. The United States is expected to dominate the North America silica sand for glass making market, with a substantial value share in terms of consumption. Significant development in the construction sector coupled with significant production of automotive in the country has boosted the demand for silica sand for glass making.

Attributes Details
United States Market Expected Size (2033) USD 1.6 billion
United States Market Absolute Dollar Growth USD 590.8 million
CAGR % 2017 to 2022 4.2%

Growing adoption of glass packaging in food and beverages is expected to be key factor driving the consumption in United States. Rising concerns about product quality and hygiene among the consumers across the country is expected to elevate the demand for clear packaging eventually rising the sales of glass in the United States.

United Kingdom: Expanding Luxury Hotel Market Represents Opportunities for Silica Sand

United Kingdom has always been one of the preferred tourist destinations. Owing to this, the real estate developers and luxury hotel chains are investing on developing new hotels. As per a recent data, the hotel market size in the United Kingdom was USD 19.8 billion in 2022. The hotels market is expected to grow at 20.3% during the forecast period. This represents massive opportunities for the sales of silica sand.

Attributes Details
United Kingdom Market Expected Size (2033) USD 215.4 million
United Kingdom Market Absolute Dollar Growth USD 67.6 million
CAGR % 2017 to 2022 4.2%

The automotive market as well is expected to display growth. In 2021, an astounding 1.65 million units of automotive parts were sold. In fact, the researchers were of the view that the automobile and automotive industry was at the peak of its glory before the COVID-19 pandemic.

An increase in the facilities for automobile and automotive would mean more show rooms and garages, which brightens up the scope for silica sand.

What is Growth Outlook in China?

China is projected to reach an estimated value of USD 1,934 million by the end of 2033. China is expected to be among the prominent consumers of silica sand owing to substantial growth in end-use industries like construction, automotive, and others. Significant presence of end users in the country creates a huge demand for silica sand for glass making across the country.

Attributes Details
China Market Expected Size (2033) USD 2 billion
China Market Absolute Dollar Growth USD 762.4 million
CAGR % 2017 to 2022 4.7%

Moreover, owing to boom in the automotive and construction industry across the country, demand for silica sand for glass making is expected to rise substantially. Substantial consumption of food and beverages in the country is also expected to contribute significantly in the growth of the market.

Japan: Leading Robot Manufacturer is the Game Changer

Japan is meant for producing top quality robots, and manufacturing them to the overseas market as well. Japan is known to manufacture more than 45% of global robots as per the data released by International Federation of Robotics (IFR). With increasing demand for robotics worldwide, the investors in Japan are looking to open more manufacturing plants, which is expected to propel the market growth.

Attributes Details
Japan Market Expected Size (2033) USD 467.8 million
Japan Market Absolute Dollar Growth USD 173.4 million
CAGR % 2017 to 2022 4.4%

Japan is also known for its mammoth telecommunication industry. In spite of being one of the smallest nations worldwide, the country had a telecom industry worth USD 124 billion in 2021. In order to secure this market from cyber threat, the Japan government has been establishing facilities that pertain to telecom security. The increase in the number of such facilities is expected to increase the adoption of silica sand for glass making.

South Korea: Shipbuilding to Sail the Market

South Korea has always been making headlines for its vast shipbuilding market. The nation contributes over 40% to the global market share. With countries across the world looking to strengthen their marine defense, the country is expected to receive orders worth billions. An increase in ship building facility is directly proportional to the surging demand for silica glass.

Attributes Details
South Korea Market Expected Size (2033) USD 737.7 million
South Korea Market Absolute Dollar Growth USD 265.3 million
17 to 2022 5%

South Korea also holds the reputation of having a colossal nanotechnology market. Manufacturers across sectors are using nanotechnology as it helps reduce costs and reduce carbon footprints. Thus, there is an increase in the number of laboratories dedicated to nanotechnology applications.

Get the data you need at a Fraction of the cost

Personalize your report by choosing insights you need
and save 40%!

Category-wise Insights

Segment Application
Attributes Glass Container
CAGR (2017 to 2022) 4.6%
CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.1%
Segment Purity
Attributes High Purity
CAGR (2017 to 2022) 4.6%
CAGR (2023 to 2033) 4.3%

Which is expected to be a Key Application for Silica Sand for Glass Making?

The glass container segment is expected to hold the dominant market share. However, the flat glass segment is projected to be lucrative in the long run, owing to significantly high market growth of the automotive and construction industries. Consumption of flat glass is anticipated to account for almost 30.4% of global consumption by 2033.

Sectors such as, construction, automotive, and food & beverages are expected to fuel the demand for flat as well as glass containers during the forecast period. The scientific & specialty glass segment is expected to create more opportunities as compared to other segments, owing to higher density and customized end-use applications.

How is Construction Sector Growth affecting the Market?

Globally, the construction industry has been experiencing rapid growth over the past few years, driven primarily by the real estate sector. This in turn, is driven by demand for housing and retail construction. Across the world, various types of glass are used in the construction industry for applications such as, glazing, aesthetic appearance, windows, etc. From last couple of decades, heightened focus on bettering aesthetics in commercial as well as residential complexes is seen.

Buildings account for more than 40% of primary energy consumption, which has further fueled the growth of silica sand for glass. As per an article published by European Glass Association, “European Union was the largest producer of flat glass until a couple of years. However, the scenario has changed and this position is now held by China as it accounts for a key share of the market for flat glass alone.”

What is the Growth Outlook for High Purity Glass Segment?

Robust growth in research and development activities, demand for scientific and instrumental glass is expected to drive the growth of high purity glass segment. Growing demand for high purity silica sand for production of quality glasses for industrial applications are boosting the growth rate of the segment.

The high purity glass offers high chemical resistance and strong thermal resistance which makes it highly suitable for industrial purpose. The ability to offer resistance from high radiation and high thermal shock resistance is also expected to bolster the growth of this segment.

Start-ups Work on Manufacturing Sustainable Glass Products

The start-ups that adopting zero-waste policy have been manufacturing sustainable glass products. These are prepared using locally sourced waste glass. The vegetable oil convertors reuse the spent cooking oil as a fuel for glass manufacturing machinery.

iQ Renew: This Australian start-up manufactures recycled glass sand to support construction and civil engineering. The smooth surface and angular shape provide unique benefits over sand alternatives, and make them a suitable drainage medium as well. The engineered silica which is patented by the start-up is a plant nutrient and is used for enhancing the soil.

In February 2019, iQ Renew merged with ‘Stop Waste’ to create a new force in Australian recycling. The merger would be one of the first companies to combine physical and chemical recycling.

Manufacturers look into Smoother Ways for Energy Transition

The manufacturers are tapping into the benefits offered by lithium projects. The lithium hydroxide projects would allow more than 30,000 tons of lithium to be produced annually by 2030. This would certainly play a key role in improving the industrial sovereignty and assist in creating an integrated battery production sector as well.

In October 2022, Imerys further contributed to this development by launching a project to mine Lithium in France.

Key developments in the market are:

  • In May 2022, Imerys launched a transparent and understandable approach to sustainable minerals. The SustainAgility framework provides a clear approach to mineral sustainability.
  • In December 2022, Sibelco acquired Bassanetti Group to strengthen its position in the Southern Europe.

Dominant Players in the Market

Company Description
Sibelco Over the past century and a half, Sibelco has grown from local silica sand company to a global provider of material solutions. Environment and Social Responsibility are central to the company’s vision, strategy, and day-to-day business. The company has clearly set sustainability priorities and targets, developed via comprehensive process. Sibelco reaffirms its support of the ten principals of the United Nations Global Compact in the areas of Human Rights, Labor, Environment, and Anti-corruption.
Imerys As the world’s leading supplier of specialty solutions for the industries based on mineral or advanced materials, Imerys contributes to a wide range of products. The company is all about creating high value-added, functional solutions, ranging from process manufacturing to consumer goods. Imerys has been succeeding through strong business model and value proposition. The company has always worked on delivering unrivaled technological and industrial processes, solutions, and leading positions in the market.
Tochu Corporation Tochu Corporation have always worked on the motto of responsibility, sincerity, and mutual understanding and cooperation. Tochu has believed in keeping harmony with natural environment, and produce valuable products. The company has gained credibility from customers by performing projects with responsibility, sincere mutual understanding, and cooperation. Tochu has been developing and expanding business through the synergy in its group of companies.

Other key players profiled: USA Silica, Euroquarz GmbH.

Silica Sand for Glass Making Market Segmentation

By Application:

  • Flat Glass
  • Fiber Glass
  • Glass Container (Colored, Colorless)
  • Special & Technical
  • Tableware Glass
  • Others

By Purity:

  • High Purity
  • Ultra-high Purity

By End Use:

  • Food & Beverage Packaging
  • Industrial
  • Pharmaceutical
  • Scientific Instrument & Analytical Research
  • Construction
  • Automotive
  • Cookware & Utensils

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • East Asia
  • South Asia
  • Oceania
  • The Middle East and Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

How Big is the Silica Sand for Glass Making Market Going to be by 2033?

The market is valued to attain USD 8.5 billion by 2033.

What is the Growth Forecast for Market?

The market is forecast to record a CAGR of 4.1% through 2033.

What is Current Market Valuation?

The market is estimated to secure a valuation of USD 5.7 billion in 2023.

What is the Market CAGR for United States?

The United States market to thrive at a CAGR of 4.7% through 2033.

Which Application Sector Leads the Market?

The glass container segment dominates evolving at a CAGR of 4.1% through 2033.

Which Purity Sector Takes Precedence in the Market?

The high purity segment leads thriving at a CAGR of 4.3% through 2033.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Market Background
	4. Global Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	5. Global Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Application
		5.1. Flat Glass
		5.2. Fiber Glass
		5.3. Glass Container
			5.3.1. Colored
			5.3.2. Colorless
		5.4. Special & Technical
		5.5. Tableware Glass
		5.6. Others
	6. Global Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Purity
		6.1. High Purity
		6.2. Ultra-High Purity
	7. Global Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End Use
		7.1. Food & Beverage Packaging
		7.2. Industrial
		7.3. Pharmaceutical
		7.4. Scientific Instrument & Analytical Research
		7.5. Construction
		7.6. Automotive
		7.7. Cookware & Utensils
	8. Global Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region
		8.1. North America
		8.2. Latin America
		8.3. Europe
		8.4. East Asia
		8.5. South Asia
		8.6. Oceania
		8.7. MEA
	9. North America Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	10. Latin America Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	11. Europe Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	12. East Asia Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	13. South Asia Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	14. Oceania Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	15. MEA Market Analysis 2017 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	16. Key Countries Market Analysis
	17. Market Structure Analysis
	18. Competition Analysis
		18.1. US Silica
		18.2. Tochu Corporation
		18.3. Imerys Refractory Minerals
		18.4. Euroquarz GmbH
		18.5. Sibelco
		18.6. ASAMCO Albermale
		18.7. AGSCO Corp
		18.8. G3 Enterprises
		18.9. Fairmount Santrol
		18.10. Badger Mining
		18.11. JLD Minerals
		18.12. Uma Group of Kaolin
	19. Assumptions & Acronyms Used
	20. Research Methodology
Recommendations

Chemicals & Materials

Polymeric Sand Market

February 2024

REP-GB-6178

315 pages

Chemicals & Materials

Europe Silica Sand for Glass Making Market

June 2023

REP-GB-15410

324 pages

Explore Chemicals & Materials Insights

View Reports
Future Market Insights

Silica Sand for Glass Making Market

Schedule a Call