Battery Separator Market Size, Share, Industry, Forecast and outlook (2024-2031)

Global Battery Separators Market is segmented By Material (Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Absorber Glass Mat (AGM), Others), By Thickness (Below 20 micrometers (µm), 20 µm to 50 µm, 50 µm to 100 µm, Above 100 µm), By Layer (Single-Layer, Multilayer, Microporous, Others), By Battery Type (Lithium-ion, Lead-Acid, Others), By Technology (Dry, Wet), By Application (Industrial, Electronics, Automotive, Others) and By Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa) – Size, Share Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2024-2031

Battery Separators Market Size

Global Battery Separator Market reached US$ 10.6 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 38.1 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 17.4% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Globally, the use of energy storage systems (ESS) for grid stabilization and integration of renewable energy is growing. To provide effective energy transfer and storage in these systems, battery separators are crucial parts. Huge energy storage projects are being funded by utilities and governments to promote renewable energy sources like wind and solar energy.

The global market for battery separators is expected to increase at a significant rate due to the growing popularity of electric cars. Since EVs depend on innovative battery technology, high-performance separators are necessary to guarantee longevity, safety, and efficiency. The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is rising as governments impose higher pollution laws and consumers want cleaner modes of transportation.

Asia-Pacific is among the growing regions in the global battery separator market covering more than 1/3rd of the market. Growing production facilities for Lithium-Ion battery separators in Japan, China, and India. For Instance, in 2021, Leading LIB separator manufacturer Asahi Kasei planned to expand the Hipore Lithium-Ion battery separator production capacity at its Miyazaki, Japan, facility. The firm has been aggressively concentrating on growing its LIB separator business, with wet-process production facilities in Japan.

Market Summary

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Market Dynamics

Rising Usage of Battery Separators in Electric Vehicles and Growing Demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs)

The global market for battery separators is being driven mostly by the rising use of electric cars. For EV batteries to provide maximum performance, lifespan, and safety, separators need to be strong and long-lasting. The market for EVs is still growing as long as governments and consumers continue to place a high priority on sustainability and lower carbon emissions.

The growing demand for innovative battery technology, such as separators with better thermal stability, increased energy density, and longer cycle life, is a direct result of this trend. To satisfy the demanding requirements of electric vehicle applications, manufacturers are making significant investments in the development of next-generation separators. The need propels technical breakthroughs and innovation in separator materials and production techniques, in addition to driving market expansion.

For Instance, in 2024, Honda Motor launched a C$15 billion ($11 billion) investment plan for new EV and battery production plants in Ontario, its largest-ever commitment in Canada. The initiative, announced alongside Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, underscores Honda's response to rising North American demand for EVs. Like its Japanese counterparts, Honda, which entered the EV market relatively late, is now ramping up efforts to compete more effectively against dynamic Chinese rivals. The development is set to drive growth in the global battery separator market.

Technological Development in Battery Materials and Battery Technology

The development of battery technology and materials is a key factor propelling the global market for battery separators. The efficiency, functionality, and safety of batteries used in various industries are constantly being improved by these developments. Higher energy densities and longer battery life result from advancements in cathode, anode, and electrolyte material science.

The data demands the development of sophisticated battery separators that can support ideal ion transport and temperature control. Better materials also support battery safety and dependability, which is important for uses with strict safety regulations, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and grid-scale energy storage systems.

For Instance, in 2024, 24M unveiled a new battery separator, 24M Impervio, designed to enhance safety in lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries used in EVs, energy storage systems, and consumer applications. The technology aims to prevent issues such as metallic dendrite formation and electrode misalignments, which can lead to fires and recalls.

Stringent Regulatory Requirements

Battery separator materials are subject to strict regulations imposed by regulatory systems globally. Performance requirements, safety, and the environment are frequently the main topics of these rules. For example, rules can require a certain degree of mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability. The cost of production and the time needed to produce new items are increased by adhering to these restrictions.

To comply with these changing regulations, businesses must spend money on research and development, which might impede innovation and market entrance. Moreover, for firms that operate globally, differences in regulatory standards across different areas add to the complexity. The restriction affects the market's flexibility and profitability by requiring constant adaptation and investment in compliance initiatives. 

Volatile Prices of Raw Materials

The low heat resistance and operating safety of batteries, along with other security concerns, are impeding the growth of this industry. The market is further hampered by the imbalances and variations in the supply and demand of the raw materials needed to produce these goods and solutions for the battery separator.

The producers also have to deal with issues like ensuring that the materials used to make battery separators are of consistent quality. The is an additional market constraint. Furthermore, the problems with used battery transportation and storage impede market expansion. During the projected period, the expansion of the lithium-ion battery market is anticipated to be hindered by its high cost when compared to other battery types like lead-acid, nickel-metal-hydride, and sodium-sulfur.

Market Segment Analysis

The global battery separator market is segmented based on material, thickness, layer, battery type, technology, application, and region.

Increasing Demand for Lithium-Ion Battery Separators for Electric Vehicles Application

The automotive segment is among the growing regions in the global battery separator market covering more than 1/3rd of the market. The rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is a primary catalyst fueling the growth of the global battery separator market, which is mostly driven by the rise of lithium-ion (Lithium-Ion) batteries. The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has increased as governments throughout the world impose stricter pollution laws and encourage greener mobility.

For Instance, in 2024, Asahi Kasei planned to build an integrated plant in Ontario, Canada, for manufacturing and coating Hipore wet-process lithium-ion battery separators. It has a basic agreement with Honda Motor Co., Ltd. for potential joint investments. The Development Bank of Japan Inc. (DBJ) will fund Asahi Kasei Battery Separator Corp.2, set to launch in October 2024, through preferred shares. Additional financial support is anticipated from both the federal and provincial governments of Canada.

Market Geographical Share

Increasing Usage of Battery Separators in the Electronics Industry and Growing Investments in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific has been a dominant force in the global Battery Separator Market. The market for battery separators is expected to be impacted by the rising demand for various electronic gadgets as well as technical developments. Moreover, the industry is growing as a result of the rising output of consumer electronics in emerging nations like China, Japan, South Korea, India, and others. The market is growing because of the significant concentration of EV and consumer electronics manufacturers.

For Instance, in 2022, Hollingsworth & Vose (H&V) is making a strategic investment in its Mysuru plant in India, aimed at doubling its manufacturing capacity for battery separators to cater to both South Asian and global markets. The expansion will significantly increase H&V's ability to serve the international market, presenting an exciting opportunity to enhance its local presence in India. The growth initiative aligns with H&V's commitment to supporting the global shift towards clean and sustainable energy storage solutions.

The Asia-Pacific market is expected to have continuous potential due to the rise of the automotive sector. With the increasing investment in research and development in the sector, countries like China, Japan, and India are predicted to expand at a significant rate. Additionally, the market is being driven by the growing use of lithium-ion batteries, particularly in the automobile industry.

For Instance, in 2023, INV New Material Technology (M) Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of China's Shenzhen Senior Technology Material Co Ltd, launched its first plant in Malaysia with an RM3.2 billion investment. As a leading company in the global lithium battery separator industry, this new facility in Penang Technology Park will produce 1.3 billion square meters of wet-process and coated separators annually. It is the first such facility in Southeast Asia, as highlighted by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and INV.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

The global market for battery separators was greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, mainly because of supply chain interruptions and a decline in demand in some industries. Due to the global lockdowns and limitations, the automobile and energy storage industries which are big users of batteries and, by extension, battery separators had production halts and limited operations.

Additionally, Significant delays and shortages were brought on by the decline in industrial activity and disruptions in the flow of raw materials and completed items, which had an impact on the expansion of the market as a whole. In addition to these difficulties, it is anticipated that the market for battery separators will return and expand in the post-pandemic era due to rising demand for EVs and renewable energy storage options.

The popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) has increased due to the transition towards cleaner energy sources and the increased focus on lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It has also increased the demand for lithium-ion batteries. The battery separator market is expected to increase significantly in the upcoming years as nations adopt laws and efforts that favor electric transportation.

Furthermore, the pandemic has shown how crucial technical developments and corporate resilience are. Businesses in the battery separator industry are putting more of an emphasis on strategic planning and innovation to take advantage of new possibilities and manage uncertainty. It is anticipated that increased manufacturing efficiency and the creation of battery separators with higher efficiency would boost market competitiveness.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis

The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has had a substantial impact on supply chains, manufacturing prices, and market dynamics in the battery separator industry globally. The main effect is supply chain disruption, especially for raw materials needed to produce battery separators.

The conflict has resulted in shortages of supplies, higher costs, and logistical difficulties. Russia and Ukraine are important suppliers of several resources. Increased production costs and supply chain delays have resulted from this disturbance in the availability of polypropylene and polyethylene, which are essential for the production of battery separators. 

Furthermore, a climate of uncertainty influenced by geopolitical unrest has an impact on market expansion and investment choices. Concerns over energy security have increased as a result of the conflict, leading nations to hasten the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy sources in their long-term energy plans.

It has increased demand for battery separators, especially in the EV industry, as countries look to become more energy-independent and less dependent on fossil fuels. Despite the short-term difficulties brought on by the conflict, innovation and development in the battery separator market are anticipated due to the rising focus on sustainable energy solutions.

Key Developments

• On April 25, 2024,  Honda Motor launched a C$15 billion ($11 billion) investment plan for new EV and battery production plants in Ontario, its largest-ever commitment in Canada. The initiative, announced alongside Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, underscores Honda's response to rising North American demand for EVs. Like its Japanese counterparts, Honda, which entered the EV market relatively late, is now ramping up efforts to compete more effectively against dynamic Chinese rivals. The development is set to drive growth in the global battery separator market.
• On December 01, 2023, INV New Material Technology (M) Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of China's Shenzhen Senior Technology Material Co Ltd, launched its first plant in Malaysia with an RM3.2 billion investment. As a leading company in the global lithium battery separator industry, this new facility in Penang Technology Park will produce 1.3 billion square meters of wet-process and coated separators annually. It is the first such facility in Southeast Asia, as highlighted by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and INV.
• On March 15, 2022, Hollingsworth & Vose (H&V) is making a strategic investment in its Mysuru plant in India, aimed at doubling its manufacturing capacity for battery separators to cater to both South Asian and global markets. The expansion will significantly increase H&V's ability to serve the international market, presenting an exciting opportunity to enhance its local presence in India. The growth initiative aligns with H&V's commitment to supporting the global shift towards clean and sustainable energy storage solutions.

Market Key Players

The major global players in the market include Asahi Kasei, Toray Industry, Freudenberg, SK Innovation, Entek International, Sumitomo Chemical, Ube Industries, Bernard Dumas, Dreamweaver International, and W-Scope Industries.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global battery separator market segmentation based on material, thickness, layer, battery type, technology, application, and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development. 
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of battery separator market-level with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as Excel consisting of key products of all the major players. 

The global battery separator market report would provide approximately 86 tables, 85 figures, and 224 Pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies