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Based on type, the market is segmented into radon, xenon, krypton, argon, neon and helium. Argon held the dominant market share of USD 962.6 million in 2023 and is expected to grow significantly at a CAGR of 6.2% till 2032. Argon emerges as the dominant force in the market, propelled by its diverse applications. It plays a pivotal role in metal fabrication and welding, acting as a crucial inert shielding gas. The surge in global manufacturing and construction activities further fuels argon's demand.
Moreover, the semiconductor sector relies on argon to create inert atmospheres during chip production. Beyond this, its utility extends to 3D printing, plasma displays, and energy-efficient lighting. The medical field also embraces argon, employing it in cryosurgery and laser treatments. Argon's prevalence in the atmosphere, coupled with its cost-effective production, enhances its accessibility for industrial applications. Its chemical inertness and thermal insulation properties further bolster its appeal, ensuring a steady growth trajectory in the market.
Based on function, the rare gas market is segmented into illumination, insulation, scanning, anesthesia, semiconductors and satellites. Semiconductors accounted for major market share in 2023 is projected to grow through 2032 at a CAGR of 7.6%. This dominance is fueled by the semiconductor industry's surging demand for high-purity rare gases in chip manufacturing. Technological advancements necessitate more refined production techniques, further boosting this demand. The illumination segment is witnessing steady growth, driven by the adoption of rare gases in energy-efficient lighting. Meanwhile, the insulation segment benefits from rising usage in energy-saving window production. Scanning applications, notably in medical imaging, are expanding the market's footprint in the healthcare sector. The anaesthesia segment maintains a steady demand for medical procedures, and the satellites segment is poised for growth, given the rising number of satellites launches for communication and earth observation.
Based on end use industry, the market is categorized into healthcare, lighting, electronics and semiconductors, manufacturing and fabrication, energy and power, aerospace and aviation. Electronics and semiconductors hold the forefront with 24.6% of the market share in 2023. The surge in demand for advanced semiconductors, driven by 5G, AI, and IoT technologies, propels this sector's growth. Healthcare, on the other hand, leverages rare gases for medical imaging and treatments. In the realm of lighting, there's a notable shift towards energy-efficient solutions. Meanwhile, in manufacturing and fabrication, rare gases find applications in welding and metal production. The energy and power sector utilizes them for insulation and in nuclear applications. Aerospace and aviation sectors heavily rely on rare gases for propulsion and life support systems. Research institutions also find these gases indispensable for a range of scientific studies. While electronics and semiconductors take the lead, all sectors are witnessing growth, thanks to technological advancements and their widening applications across industries.
North America dominated the rare gas market in 2023 with revenue of over USD 955.9 million in 2023. North America's lead is due to its strong semiconductor industry, advanced healthcare, and significant aerospace and defense sectors. The region's focus on technological innovation and research further increases the demand for high-purity rare gases. Europe follows closely, focusing on green technologies and medical advancements. The Asia-Pacific region is growing the fastest, driven by rapid industrialization, a growing electronics sector, and increasing healthcare investments, especially in China, Japan, and South Korea. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa, though smaller markets, are steadily growing due to rising industrial activities and healthcare sector developments.