Cellulose Films Market Analysis, Market Size, Application Analysis, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies And Forecasts, 2014 To 2020

Global increase in production of sustainable products derived from renewable sources is expected to remain a key factor for cellulose films market growth over the next six years. Wood and cotton fibers are important raw material sources for manufacturing cellulose films. Global increase in price for petrochemical products coupled with depletion of fossil fuel reserves is expected to significantly augment cellulose films market growth over the forecast period. Cellulose films are expected to provide renewable and cost effective alternative to existing petrochemical based products. Petrochemical based polymers are non-renewable and non-biodegradable, non-recyclable and are hazardous to the environment. Increasing government regulations on account of environmental concerns is expected to fuel cellulose film demand. Increasing production of bio polylactic acid (PLA) is expected to have a negative impact on demand for cellulose films. Bio based PLA derived from chemical treatment starch and sugar have excellent mechanical properties in comparison to cellulose films. Increasing R&D investments for product development in niche applications is expected to provide a key opportunity for industry players. Cellulose polymer has high tensile strength & elongation and it is necessary to plasticize and blend with other polymers to improve thermal & mechanical properties. Cellulose film applications include packaging, mulch films, containers, adhesives and textile sizing agents

Different cellulose polymers such as cellulose ester, cellulose ether and regenerated cellulose are produced using chemical modification techniques. Cellulose ester includes cellulose nitrates and cellulose acetate is particularly developed for fiber & film applications. Cellulose ethers include hydroxyethyl cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose mainly used in infrastructure, personal care, pharmaceutical, food and paints. Regenerated cellulose owing to high thermal stability are widely used in hygienic disposables, home furnishings and textiles.

Cellulose film industry is highly consolidated and includes key participants such as Innovia Films, Eastman Chemical, FkuR and Sateri. Major demand is expected from emerging economies such as Asia Pacific and South America. Counties in these regions scuh as China, India, Mexico and Brazil are expected to witness higher growth rates owing to population expansion and increase in middle class disposable incomes.  Other significant demand is expected from matured market of Europe owing to increasing government legislation to reduce green house gas (GNG) effect. Following Europe, North America is expected to witness a steady increase in demand over the next six years.