Materials News

PC growth on upward trend

According to the study, world demand for PC is expected to grow at an average rate of slightly less than 5% during the next five years, reaching around 4.5 million tonnes by the end of 2016. US demand for the product was estimated at 360,000 tonnes in 2011.

Electrical and electronic applications are the largest end-use for PC, accounting for around one-fifth of global demand at around 720,000 tonnes in 2011. The key driver for this market will be the increased use of consumer electronics, such as tablet devices, flat screen televisions, mobile phones and office equipment, including printers.

Electronics, particularly consumer electronics, accounted for 20% of end-use of PC in 2011; while the sheet and film sector, which primarily serves the construction industry, represented 18%; optical media (CDs/DVDs) at 18% and appliances and automotive (non-window usage) at 12% each. Other uses include automotive glazing, medical equipment and instruments, sports, safety and recreational equipment and packaging.