Ultrafiltration Membrane Industry: Developments, Markets

Report Highlights

• The market for ultrafiltration will rise at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 9.7% from $458 million in 2002 to $727 million in 2007.
• Profitable new applications are developing in separations needed for neutraceuticals manufacture, a rapidly growing sector.
• The phase-out of reusable dialyzers, increased use of more expensive synthetic membranes and an expanding patient population should continue to grow the dialysis market.
• Potable water production potentially is a very large market for UF membranes Municipal wastewater recycling, using UF, is gaining attention for nonpotable reuse in irrigation and groundwater recharge; the notion that treated wastewater can be recycled as potable also is advancing.

INTRODUCTION

This BCC technical/marketing report provides an in-depth analysis of the technical and market drivers relating to ultrafiltration membranes. Though initially designed for industrial effluent treatment, the $428 million ultrafiltration market has found more lucrative arenas such as hemodialysis, food and beverage processing, pharmaceuticals manufacture, potable water production and industrial processes such as ultrapure water generation, electrocoat paint and recycle/recovery of water and raw materials. These applications are driving the market.

This comprehensive study evaluates the current worth of ultrafiltration membranes by application, and forecasts growth and trends in the various sectors over the next five years. The conclusions are illustrated with important statistical information on markets, applications, industry structure and dynamics, along with technological developments.

Because of the industry's fragmented nature, it is difficult to find studies that gather extensive data from diverse resources and analyze it in the context of a comprehensive document. This report contains a unique collection of membrane-related information and conclusions that are difficult to find elsewhere. The analysis, therefore, is intended for those who require a thorough study of the ultrafiltration membrane industry, i.e., one that traces significant developments, forecasts important trends, quantifies the various market sectors, and profiles companies active in those areas.

Senior marketing personnel, venture capitalists, executive planners, research directors, government officials and suppliers to the membrane industry who want to discover and exploit current or projected market niches should find the report of significant value.

SCOPE OF STUDY

This analysis provides coverage of the major applications of the technology:

• food and beverage processing
• biopharmaceuticals manufacture
• hemodialysis
• potable water production
• wastewater treatment
• industrial processes
• semiconductor fabrication.

The report also covers:

• industry structure and major company profiles
• pricing considerations and competitive technologies
• R&D and government regulations
• five-year projections for market activity and value.

METHODOLOGY

A comprehensive literature, patent, and Internet search was undertaken and key industry players were queried. News and current developments in the field are evaluated in BCC's monthly newsletters, Membrane & Separations Technology News, Water Technology News, and High Tech Separations News.

INFORMATION SOURCES

In addition to data from BCC's related monthly newsletters, other information in this report was gleaned from many different sources. SEC filings, annual reports, patent literature, , scientific and industry journals, government reports, census information, conference literature, patent documents, online resources, and industry participants have all been researched.