The global conductive textiles market was valued at USD 1.02 billion in 2016 and is projected to reach USD 2.11 billion by 2021, at a CAGR of 15.6% from 2016 to 2021. Growing awareness regarding the advantages of conductive textiles, growing smart fabrics market, and high demand from the military & defense sector are major factors driving the growth of the global conductive textiles market.
Conductive textiles are widely used in functions, such as heating, conduction, or electromagnetic interface shielding, and prevention of static charge build-up. Cotton, polyester, and nylon are the most widely used types of fabrics for conductive textiles. The type of conductive textile is selected based on the type of metal and the requirement of end-use industry. Copper and nickel are majorly used in conductive textiles.
Depending upon the requirement of conductive textiles by varied end-use industries, these textiles can be woven, knitted, braided, sewn, or cut. Among types, the woven textile segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2016 to 2021. Woven conductive textile is lightweight and offers durable shielding. It also provides high standard performance in shielding and conductivity, and is widely preferred by varied end users.
Key players operating in the conductive textiles market include Parker Chomerics (U.S.), Toray Industries, Inc. (Japan), Laird PLC (U.K.), and Bekaert (Belgium), among others.
