North America Phenolic Resin Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Novolac, Resol, Liquid Resol Resin, Solid Resol Resin), By Application (Wood Adhesives, Molding), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Market Size & Trends

The North America phenolic resin market size was valued at USD 3.55 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2024 to 2030. The market is expanding due to the construction industry's expansion, the automotive industry's push for lightweight and efficient vehicles, and the electronics sector's demand for high-performance materials. Phenolic resins' superior properties, including heat resistance, moldability, and flame retardancy, coupled with increasing sustainability focus, are driving market growth.

The revitalization of the automotive industry in the region has significantly boosted the demand for phenolic resins, particularly in applications such as automotive filters and components. According to American Chemistry Council, in 2023, an estimated 15.8 million passenger automobiles and light duty trucks were produced in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The increasing use of phenolic resins in insulation foams, laminates, and coatings for enhanced fire resistance, durability, and thermal insulation is another reason for market growth.

There is growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials and processes. Phenolic resins offer potential for sustainable applications, such as replacing traditional materials with bio-based alternatives. Lightweight, high thermal stability, and improved heat resistance make them attractive for marine, construction, and automotive applications. Chemical resistance and dimensional stability drive demand for phenolic resins in abrasive grinding wheels, friction linings, and refractory products.  

Product Insights

The novolac segment dominated the market and accounted for a share of 47.8% in 2023. Its high thermal stability, resistance to chemicals, and superior molding characteristics make it an ideal choice for various industries. The automotive sector is increasingly adopting novolac resins for brake linings and clutch components owing to their heat resistance and friction properties. The construction industry is leveraging novolac-based adhesives and binders for engineered wood products and insulation materials, driven by the need for durable and fire-resistant building materials.

The solid resol resin segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.0% during the forecast period. Its excellent adhesive properties make it a preferred choice for bonding wood, plywood, and particleboard in the construction industry. Moreover, the growing demand for insulation materials is driving the use of solid resol resins as binders for mineral wool and foam insulation.

Application Insights

Molding accounted for the largest market revenue share of 24.7% in 2023. The increase in the use of phenolic resins in molding applications is primarily driven by their superior thermal stability, mechanical strength, and resistance to chemical degradation. The electrical and electronics sectors are increasingly adopting phenolic resins for molding intricate components such as connectors, switches, and circuit breakers, benefiting from their excellent electrical insulation and flame retardancy.

The insulations segment is projected to grow at a significant CAGR of 6.1% over the forecast period. The growing emphasis on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability is significantly boosting the demand for phenolic resins in insulation applications.

Regional Insights

The North America phenolic resin market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period. The region's thriving economy, coupled with increasing infrastructure development and demand for energy-efficient buildings, is fueling the growth of phenolic resins for insulation and construction applications.

U.S. Phenolic Resin Market Trends

The U.S. phenolic resin market held a dominant position in 2023. The country's emphasis on renewable energy and sustainable building practices is driving demand for phenolic-based insulation materials.

Key North America Phenolic Resin Company Insights

Some key companies in the North America phenolic resin market include Entec Polymers, SHENGQUAN GROUP, Capital Resin Corporation, and others. Key companies are adopting several organic and inorganic growth strategies, such as expansion, mergers & acquisitions, and joint ventures, to maintain and expand their market share.

North America Phenolic Resin Market Report Scope

North America Phenolic Resin Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at regional and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the North America phenolic resin market report based on product, application, and region.

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, Volume in Kilotons, 2018 - 2030)

  • Novolac

  • Resol

  • Liquid Resol Resin

  • Solid Resol Resin

  • Others

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, Volume in Kilotons, 2018 - 2030)

  • Wood Adhesives

  • Molding

  • Insulations

  • Laminates

  • Paper Impregnation

  • Coatings

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, Volume in Kilotons, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico