PUBLISHER: Polaris Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1903820
PUBLISHER: Polaris Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1903820
The activated carbon market size is expected to reach USD 10.80 billion by 2034, according to a new study by Polaris Market Research. The report "Activated Carbon Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Analysis Report: By Product (Granular, Powdered, and Other Products), By Application, By Raw Material, By Distribution Channel, By End User, and By Region - Market Forecast, 2026-2034" gives a detailed insight into current market dynamics and provides analysis on future market growth.
Activated carbon is a highly porous form of carbon. It is used for adsorption and filtration in various applications. These range from industry to environmental and consumer uses. The activated carbon market has seen an accelerated demand due to its effectiveness in removing pollutants from air, water, and chemical effluent streams, as various industries are facing mounting demands from governments and regulatory authorities to adhere strictly to various environmental standards and bylaws. The enhancement of activated carbon applications in carbon footprint management is providing opportunities in the activated carbon market, as it is proven effective in removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mercury, and other pollutants in such industries. Additionally, a rise in demand for sustainable manufacturing practices is further fueling these uses.
In terms of end user, the water treatment segment accounted for the largest revenue share of the activated carbon market in 2025. This is due to its extensive use in both municipal and industrial water purification systems. Based on the distribution channel, the distributor networks segment is expected to grow the fastest in the coming years. Distributor networks are important for connecting manufacturers with smaller or regional buyers.
The increasing emphasis on product development for improved performance and versatility of application further adds to the growth prospects. Companies are working on R&D activities for creating innovative grades of activated carbon with optimized pore size distribution and compatibility with emerging technology applications. Such developments are making it possible for activated carbon to be used in a wide range of applications, including pharmaceutical, energy storage, and food applications. Thus, as end-users emphasize productivity and sustainability, applications of high-performance activated carbon are increasing, thereby enhancing market prospects.
A few global key market players include Boyce Carbon; Cabot Corporation; Carbon Activated Corporation; CarboTech AC GmbH; CarbPure Technologies; Donau Chemie AG; Evoqua Water Technologies LLC; Haycarb PLC; Jacobi Carbons Group; Kuraray Co.; Kureha Corporation; Osaka Gas Chemicals Co., Ltd.; Oxbow Activated Carbon LLC; and Tantech Holdings Ltd.
Where is the Activated Carbon Market Headed?
Advancement in carbon production and rising industrial air pollution control are driving the market expansion. Our geographic analysis reveals that the North America activated carbon market is expected to account for substantial growth. This is due to stringent environmental regulations and growing focus on water quality. Further, strategic investments and material innovations are expected to drive market demand.
What Does Activated Carbon Report Reveal?
What is the market size and CAGR for the market during 2026-2034?
Which factors are driving the expansion of the industry?
Who are the key industry participants? What is their relative position in terms of competitive positioning?
How do different distribution channels, such as distributor networks and retail channel, influence the market landscape?
How does the market differ in terms of product type, application, raw material, and end user? Which is the leading end user?
What are the opportunities in different regional markets, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa?
What are the emerging technologies and innovations in the market?
Polaris Market Research has segmented the market report on the basis of product type, application, raw material, distribution channel, end user, and region:
By Product Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021-2034)
Granular
Powdered
Other Products
By Application Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021-2034)
Liquid Phase
Gas Phase
By Raw Material Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021-2034)
Coal-Based
Coconut Shell
Hardwood-Based
Softwood-Based
Other Materials
By Distribution Channel Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021-2034)
Direct Wholesale to Manufacturers
Distributor Networks
Retail Channel
By End User Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021-2034)
Water Treatment
Air & Gas Purification
Food & Beverage Processing
Pharmaceutical
Mining & Metallurgy
Automotive & Transportation
Others
By Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021-2034)
North America
US
Canada
Europe
Germany
France
UK
Italy
Spain
Netherlands
Russia
Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific
China
Japan
India
Malaysia
South Korea
Indonesia
Australia
Vietnam
Rest of Asia Pacific
Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Israel
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa
Latin America
Mexico
Brazil
Argentina
Rest of Latin America