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Lithium Chemicals Market is projected to experience substantial gains through 2024 to 2032, attributed to the rising demand for li-ion batteries in key application sectors, including EVs and consumer electronics. Globally, the adoption of EVs has picked up unprecedented pace over the past couple of years, fueled by strict emission regulations, environmental concerns, and favorable incentives by government agencies to promote vehicle purchases. Many automakers have been ramping up their efforts by actively focusing on establishing novel li-ion battery production capacities.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) report, 14 million EVs were expected to be sold by the end of 2023. Similarly, as per data from the Vahan website, in January 2024, the Indian electric two-wheeler market experienced a robust beginning, with sales witnessing a remarkable surge. Manufacturers collectively sold 81,344 units, marking a significant 26% year-on-year growth compared to January 2023's 64,694 units. This increasing rate of vehicular sales will escalate the demand for lithium chemicals for the manufacturing of EV batteries.
The market growth is also characterized by rising consumption of polymers and lubricants along with the strong use of high-performance, durable, and aesthetic ceramic and glass products, fueled by the ongoing expansion of residential and commercial sectors. However, supply chain disruptions, challenges in lithium extraction, and environmental concerns related to mining and processing operations may derail the industry growth to some extent.
The rising demand for energy storage systems (ESS) driven by the global transition towards sustainable energy solutions will play a key role in the industry growth. The emergence of new lithium-ion battery chemistries, such as solid-state batteries is leading to the growing use of lithium chemicals in pharmaceuticals and aerospace industries. Additionally, recent advancements in lithium extraction technologies, such as direct lithium extraction (DLE) methods are making way for enhanced production efficiency and sustainability The expanding adoption of lithium-ion batteries in consumer electronics and grid-scale storage applications will also positively influence the market outlook.
Based on type, the lithium carbonate segment in the lithium chemicals industry is estimated to reflect substantial growth from 2024 to 2032. The growth can be attributed to the rising demand for lithium-ion batteries in EVs and energy storage systems (ESS). Lithium carbonate is a key component in the production of these batteries as they are essential for the rapidly expanding EV sector. Additionally, the increasing investments in renewable energy projects and the growing popularity of portable electronics will fuel the product demand.
Lithium chemicals industry share from the medical end-use segment is projected to rise a substantial CAGR through 2032, owing to the increasing use of lithium compounds in pharmaceuticals and healthcare applications. Lithium salts, particularly lithium carbonate and lithium citrate, are utilized in the treatment of mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder and depression. The extensive usage of lithium-ion batteries in medical devices, portable diagnostic equipment, and implantable devices will further boost the segment growth.
Regionally, the North America lithium chemicals market is anticipated to witness robust growth between 2024 and 2032. This is due to the expanding demand for EVs and energy storage solutions. The surge in government initiatives is promoting the adoption of clean energy. Additionally, the robust manufacturing sector and technological advancements in lithium extraction and battery technologies are increasing the product appeal in the region. The surging investments in renewable energy projects and the growing adoption of lithium-ion batteries in various industries will help in the regional market expansion.
Leading manufacturers in the lithium chemicals industry are looking to increase their market presence by adopting various inorganic strategies, such as mergers & acquisitions, partnerships and R&D investments. For instance, Albemarle Corporation is a specialty chemicals manufacturer, specializing in the development, production, and sale of value-added products through capacity expansions and new product developments.
Some of the major lithium chemicals companies are: