With increasing demand for their unique properties in various high-tech industries, advanced ceramics are experiencing market growth with a focus on materials that support the development of electric vehicles and renewable energies.

Key players, such as Kyocera, CoorsTek, 3M on the manufacturing side, and Tesla, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin as end users, have propelled the global advanced ceramics market to a staggering estimated $100+ billion USD market.

Some examples of typical uses in sustainable energy systems include:

• Silicon Carbide – Used in on-board chargers and inverters due to its high thermal conductivity
• Wind Turbines – Silicon nitride bearings are used for their durability and ability to handle high loads.
• Solar Power – Alumina substrates are used in solar cells for their electrical insulation and thermal stability
• Geothermal Energy – Silicon carbide heat exchangers are used due to their resistance to high temperatures and corrosion
• Silicon Nitride – Used in engine components for its high-temperature performance and wear resistance
• Alumina – Used in substrates for power electronics due to its electrical insulation properties

Increased Demand for High-Performance Materials

Specific properties like high strength, wear resistance, high-temperature tolerance, and good electrical conductivity also lend themselves to play a significant role in defence applications. These materials are utilised in a wide range of military equipment and systems, including:

• Armor Systems: Advanced ceramics like boron carbide (B4C) and alumina (Al2O3) are used in body armour, vehicle armour, and protective inserts due to their ability to withstand ballistic impacts.
• Missile Systems: Ceramics are employed in missile components such as radomes, heat shields, and insulating materials, where they provide thermal protection and structural integrity.
• Aerospace Applications: Ceramics find use in aircraft engine components, turbine blades, and heat exchangers, contributing to improved performance, fuel efficiency, and durability.
• Electronic Warfare Systems: Ceramics are used in electronic components and substrates for radar systems, communication devices, and electronic countermeasure systems, where they provide electrical insulation and thermal management.

Operational Energy Consumption and Carbon Emissions

Whilst some end uses of advanced ceramics can help reduce net life-cycle carbon emissions, the production of advanced ceramics typically involves high-temperature processes such as sintering, firing and forming, leading to significant energy consumption. This translates to high carbon emissions when fossil fuels are the primary energy source during manufacturing. Advanced Ceramics have recently been added as its own new product to Sustainable Platform database of 30,000 companies, allowing users to find the companies involved in its supply chain, as well as the sustainability impact of companies involved in its provision and use.

For more information, access to SP data or a copy of the full research report, please contact info@sustainableplatform.com.