Spherical Silicon Carbide Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Application (Filler Material, Coating), By Product (Below 30.0 Micrometre, Above 50.0 Micrometre), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Spherical Silicon Carbide Market Trends

The global spherical silicon carbide market size was estimated at USD 3.68 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.0% from 2024 to 2030. Silicon carbide’s exceptional properties, such as high thermal conductivity, high breakdown voltage, and superior efficiency at high temperatures, make it ideal for the electronics industry. The material is particularly suited for developing high-power devices like electric vehicle (EV) inverters, energy-efficient chips, and semiconductors. As industries push toward next-generation electronics, SiC is used in high-frequency and high-temperature applications. This supports the demand for more efficient electronic components in electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy systems, and data centers.

Silicon carbide (SiC) plays a crucial role in the renewable energy industry, particularly in solar inverters and wind turbines, where it significantly improves energy efficiency. Its ability to reduce power loss and increase energy conversion efficiency in photovoltaic systems and power grids has driven demand. As countries aim to meet stringent energy goals and reduce carbon footprints, using SiC in renewable energy technologies is expected to expand significantly.

The global shift toward EVs is another critical driver for SiC demand. In EV powertrains, silicon carbide offers higher efficiency than traditional silicon-based devices, leading to longer driving ranges and faster charging capabilities. With major automakers scaling up EV production, the demand for SiC-based semiconductors is expected to rise. In addition, SiC is used in automotive components such as braking systems and engine parts, further boosting its adoption.

Moreover, the aerospace industry is turning to silicon carbide for high-temperature, wear-resistant applications such as jet turbine blades and aerospace electronics. SiC’s ability to withstand extreme environments while maintaining its strength makes it a preferred material for producing critical components that must endure high pressures and temperatures. Furthermore, SiC is used in advanced defense systems for sensors and radars, where durability and performance are paramount.

The growing demand for specialty ceramics, especially in defense, aerospace, and electronics sectors, contributes to the rising need for silicon carbide. Its hardness and resistance to wear and corrosion make it ideal for producing durable ceramic components. Industries that require materials with high mechanical strength, such as the automotive and steel sectors, are also turning to SiC-based ceramics to enhance performance and reduce maintenance costs.

Silicon carbide is increasingly used in the steel industry to improve furnace operations and reduce emissions. SiC’s high thermal conductivity allows for more efficient energy use, thus enabling cleaner and faster steel production processes. This aligns with the global push towards reducing carbon emissions, particularly in heavy industries like steelmaking, which are traditionally energy-intensive.

Product Insights

Based on product, the below 30.0 μm particle size segment commands the highest demand due to its suitability for high precision and performance applications. The 30.0 μm particle size range is critical in electronics, particularly power electronics, semiconductors, and thermal interface materials (TIMs). Silicon carbide in this size range produces efficient, high-performance components like SiC-based power transistors, diodes, and other semiconductors. Fine SiC particles improve electrical conductivity and allow higher switching frequencies, which is essential for developing compact and efficient electronic devices like electric vehicle (EV) chargers and photovoltaic inverters.

Fine particles below 30.0 μm are widely used in applications that require effective heat dissipation, particularly in power-intensive industries. In TIMs used for high-power devices like processors, batteries, and energy systems, finer SiC particles help improve thermal conductivity, making the heat transfer process more efficient. This characteristic is essential in consumer electronics and industrial machinery, where overheating can cause significant performance loss.

While the below 30.0 μm segment has the highest demand, the 30.0-50.0 μm particle size range is expected to be the fastest-growing due to several factors. This segment balances performance and cost, which appeals to a wide range of industrial applications.

Application Insights

Based on application, ceramic materials hold the highest demand among silicon carbide (SiC) products due to their extensive use in high-performance applications across multiple industries. Ceramic materials made from silicon carbide are highly valued in aerospace and defense because of their ability to endure extreme conditions. SiC ceramics are used in turbine blades, nozzles, and armor plates, where their high strength, thermal stability, and resistance to wear and corrosion are crucial. These materials maintain structural integrity under high pressure and temperature, which is essential in jet engines and defense systems.

Moreover, in the rapidly advancing electronics sector, SiC ceramics are essential for components that require high thermal conductivity, such as substrates for semiconductor devices. The demand is particularly strong in power electronics, which require materials capable of operating at higher temperatures and voltages than traditional silicon. SiC-based ceramic materials help increase energy efficiency and improve the overall performance of power devices, particularly in EVs and renewable energy systems.

In addition, the automotive industry increasingly relies on SiC ceramics for parts that need to withstand mechanical stress, wear, and corrosion. For instance, SiC-based ceramic materials are used in braking systems, engine parts, and other components that need to maintain performance under extreme conditions. As the industry shifts toward EVs, the demand for SiC ceramics is expected to rise even further due to their role in powertrain components.

Regional Insights

The spherical silicon carbide market in North America, especially the United States, is growing significantly due to its technological innovation and advanced manufacturing leadership. The region’s semiconductor industry relies heavily on SiC materials for high-performance electronics in data centers, electric vehicles, and defense systems. As North America’s electric vehicle market grows, particularly with companies like Tesla at the forefront, spherical silicon carbide is increasingly in demand for EV components such as inverters and charging systems that enhance efficiency and performance. Furthermore, the U.S. government’s investment in green infrastructure, including EV charging networks and renewable energy projects, will continue to drive the adoption of spherical silicon carbide in the region.

U.S. Sprehical Silicon Carbide Market Trends

The rapid expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) industry in the U.S. has significantly boosted demand for high-performance materials like spherical silicon carbide. SiC is preferred over traditional silicon in power electronics because of its superior thermal conductivity, higher voltage tolerance, and energy efficiency. Spherical SiC's unique shape offers enhanced packing density and better thermal management, making it ideal for power modules, inverters, and battery management systems in EVs.

Asia Pacific Spherical Silicon Carbide Market Trends

The Asia Pacific region dominates the global spherical silicon carbide market, holding the largest share of 55.8% in 2023 due to its strong industrial base, rapid technological advancements, and high demand for SiC across multiple industries. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea are major hubs for electronics, semiconductors, and automotive manufacturing. The high demand for silicon carbide in power electronics, particularly EVs and renewable energy applications, has led to significant growth in this region. In addition, the region is heavily investing in renewable energy projects, with solar and wind energy seeing major growth. SiC’s role in energy-efficient power devices, such as solar inverters and power modules, further boosts the demand for SiC in Asia Pacific.

The spherical silicon carbide market in China plays a pivotal role in the global market, driven by its immense manufacturing capacity and demand across key industries like electronics, automotive, and renewable energy. The country’s robust electronics manufacturing sector is one of the primary consumers of spherical silicon carbide, particularly for power electronics and semiconductors. Silicon carbide’s ability to enhance power efficiency, especially in EVs and renewable energy applications, is crucial in China’s aggressive push toward electrification and sustainable energy. The government’s support through subsidies for EVs, incentives for renewable energy projects, and its leadership in semiconductor manufacturing further bolster demand for spherical silicon carbide in the region. China's competitive edge also comes from its cost-efficient production processes and access to raw materials, making it the largest market for SiC materials.

Europe Spherical Silicon Carbide Market Trends

The spherical silicon carbide market in Europe is rapidly emerging as a significant player, largely driven by its focus on green technologies and electric mobility. The region's automotive sector, with leading companies like Volkswagen and BMW, is quickly adopting SiC technology for electric vehicle powertrains to improve efficiency and extend driving range. Europe’s stringent environmental regulations and the European Green Deal have spurred investments in sustainable energy solutions, where spherical silicon carbide is essential in power devices like inverters for solar panels and wind turbines.

Key Spherical Silicon Carbide Company Insights

Some key players operating in the market include Fujimi Corporation and Shin-Etsu Chemical:

• Fujimi Corporation, founded in 1953 and headquartered in Japan, is a leading global manufacturer of precision abrasives and polishing products. It specializes in developing and supplying materials for semiconductors, optics, and surface finishing industries. Fujimi's products are critical for high-precision applications, including polishing and grinding processes in electronics, aerospace, and automotive manufacturing.

• Shin-Etsu Chemical is a major Japanese chemical company founded in 1926. It is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of silicon products. The company has a diverse portfolio, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rare earth magnets, semiconductor silicon, and silicon carbide materials. Shin-Etsu plays a vital role in electronics, chemicals, construction, and medical devices.

Spherical Silicon Carbide Market Report Scope 

Global Spherical Silicon Carbide Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional & country levels and provides an analysis of the industry trends in each of the segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global spherical silicon carbide market based on the product, application, and region:

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

  • Below 30.0 μm

  • 30.0-50.0 μm

  • Above 50.0 μm

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

  • Filler Material

  • Ceramic Material

  • Coating

  • Other

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

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • Japan

    • India

  • Central & South America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East & Africa

    • Saudi Arabia