Enhanced Comfort Offered by Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials Drives Use in Textiles and Mattresses
Product differentiation by innovation, alliances, and co-branding will be major competitive factors
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Dec. 9, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The trend towards smart textiles and the need for comfortable temperature regulation in fabrics drive use of microencapsulated phase change materials (MPCM) in clothes and mattresses. The availability of MPCMs in slurry and powder forms complying with a wide range of melting points further boosts adoption in diverse applications.
New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, Global Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials (MPCM) Market in Textile and Mattress—Outlook and Trends, finds that the market earned revenues of $45.1 million in 2013 and estimates this to reach $99.0 million in 2018. The study covers MPCM incorporated in textile and mattress components such as fibers, yarns, fabrics, foams, and gels.
For complimentary access to more information on this research, please visit: http://bit.ly/1pBMBhJ.
"An overarching growth driver for MPCM is that they provide a passive thermal regulation system," said Frost & Sullivan Chemicals, Materials and Food Principal Analyst Raghu Tantry. "This means that no active energy or thermal regulation such as electricity or power from any source is needed to decrease or increase temperature."
New PCM microcapsules that are highly flame-resistant or non-flammable are being researched and developed. Bio-based PCMs are also becoming important, especially in North America, due to reduced risk of flammability and better biodegradability than paraffin-based PCM.
Nevertheless, the pace of market growth will primarily depend on the suitability of these technologies for commercialization. For example, encapsulation in polymeric shells is expected to be a superior method for incorporating MPCMs in garments. However, such applications add dead weight to existing material and affect overall comfort.
Deficiencies in testing standards and measurements add to the challenge. The development of better testing methods will likely take time, thereby delaying the commercialization of some textiles and mattress products. The need for intense R&D further slows down time-to-market.
"Collaboration and co-branding among textile manufacturers and MPCM providers will be necessary for this market to flourish," recommended Tantry. "In addition, product specifications must be established according to end applications in order to meet the diverse needs of the global market."
Global Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials (MPCM) Market in Textile and Mattress—Outlook and Trends is a Market Insight that is part of the Chemicals & Materials Growth Partnership Service program. This market insight offers in-depth value chain and competitive analysis, technology highlights as well as market forecasts.
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Global Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials (MPCM) Market in Textile and Mattress—Outlook and Trends
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SOURCE Frost & Sullivan
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