Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Acrylic Staple Fiber,Acrylic Tow,Acrylic Top), By Application (Filtration,Textiles,Precursors To Carbon Fiber,Outdoor,Fiber-reinforced Concrete), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Market Overview

The Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Market size was valued at USD 8627.63million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 11555.65million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 3.3% from 2025 to 2033.

The global polyacrylonitrile (PAN) market has grown significantly in recent years, supported by industrial applications ranging from carbon fiber production to advanced textiles and filtration systems. In 2023, the total global production of PAN-based fibers exceeded 2.4 million metric tons. Asia-Pacific accounted for 62% of this volume, with China leading production at approximately 1.1 million metric tons. North America contributed 370,000 metric tons, while Europe produced over 410,000 metric tons. PAN’s growing significance as a precursor for high-strength carbon fiber resulted in nearly 450,000 metric tons of PAN being used in carbon fiber manufacturing alone in 2023. Over 1.7 million metric tons were utilized in the textile industry, including synthetic wool and outdoor wear. PAN fibers are prized for their durability, resistance to UV degradation, and compatibility with blending materials such as cotton and polyester. In the filtration sector, over 140,000 metric tons of PAN were consumed in the production of high-performance filter media, membranes, and nonwoven fabrics. Due to their high melting point (above 300°C) and chemical resistance, PAN fibers have become essential in both civilian and industrial markets. Rising demand across green energy, infrastructure, and defense continues to support the growth trajectory of the global PAN market.

Key Findings

Driver: Growing utilization of PAN in carbon fiber production for aerospace, defense, and clean energy applications.

Country/Region: China leads with over 1.1 million metric tons of PAN production in 2023.

Segment: Acrylic Staple Fiber accounted for over 1.4 million metric tons globally in 2023, leading all PAN types.

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Market Trends

The polyacrylonitrile (PAN) market in 2023 was characterized by a combination of industrial diversification and sustainability-focused innovation. PAN-based carbon fibers gained significant traction in high-value sectors, particularly aerospace and renewable energy. More than 450,000 metric tons of PAN were converted into carbon fibers used in turbine blades, aircraft components, and structural reinforcements. The adoption of PAN-derived carbon fiber increased by 11% year-over-year, driven by defense procurement and energy infrastructure projects. In textiles, over 1.7 million metric tons of PAN were utilized in apparel and home furnishing segments, marking a 9% growth over 2022. Synthetic wool alternatives made from PAN saw especially high uptake in cold-weather regions, with Russia, Canada, and Northern Europe collectively accounting for 320,000 metric tons. High-performance PAN fibers were also in demand across athletic and outdoor apparel markets, with South Korea and the U.S. emerging as major importers. Another trend was the increasing use of PAN in filtration applications. PAN-based nanofiber membranes were deployed in 28 large-scale water treatment projects globally, consuming approximately 19,000 metric tons. These membranes offered enhanced pore uniformity and resistance to fouling, making them ideal for desalination and municipal wastewater systems. In industrial air filtration systems, PAN accounted for 18,500 metric tons of demand in 2023.

Technological advancements in polymerization processes enabled manufacturers to produce low-defect PAN with reduced acrylonitrile residue. Over 12% of global output met ultra-low residual standards, crucial for biomedical and electronic applications. PAN fibers for reinforced concrete also gained momentum in 2023, with 76,000 metric tons used in infrastructure upgrades across China, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Trade flows remained active, with China exporting more than 210,000 metric tons of PAN fibers to 36 countries. Japan, the U.S., and Germany remained top destinations. Export volumes from India increased by 14%, particularly to the Middle East and North Africa, reaching 42,000 metric tons. Innovations in PAN modification, including copolymer-based hybrid blends, supported the launch of over 60 new product variants across the filtration and apparel industries.

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Rising demand for carbon fiber in clean energy and aerospace sectors

In 2023, more than 450,000 metric tons of polyacrylonitrile were utilized as a precursor material for carbon fiber. The expanding use of lightweight carbon composites in wind turbine blades, electric vehicle frames, aircraft structures, and defense applications has driven this demand. Wind energy installations alone accounted for 180,000 metric tons of PAN-based carbon fiber globally, with Europe and Asia-Pacific emerging as major users. Aircraft production programs in the U.S. and France added further momentum, collectively requiring 67,000 metric tons of PAN for composite parts. Government-funded defense contracts contributed another 42,000 metric tons. PAN’s high tensile strength, thermal resistance, and stable polymer structure make it the ideal material for carbon conversion processes.

RESTRAINT

Fluctuating acrylonitrile feedstock prices and environmental concerns

One of the primary restraints in the PAN market is the price volatility of acrylonitrile, its key raw material. Between Q1 and Q4 of 2023, global acrylonitrile prices fluctuated by over 21%, influenced by supply constraints in Asia and rising energy costs in Europe. These fluctuations led to increased operational costs, particularly for manufacturers in India and South Korea, which rely heavily on imported feedstocks. In addition, growing scrutiny over acrylonitrile’s environmental impact has prompted stricter regulations. In 2023, the EU and Japan enforced new emission caps and discharge standards that affected over 17 PAN processing facilities. Compliance-related capital expenditures increased by $3.4 million across mid-sized firms, adding further cost burdens.

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion of PAN-based filtration membranes and medical textiles

With rising global awareness around water purity and air quality, PAN-based filtration systems have witnessed accelerated adoption. In 2023, approximately 37,500 metric tons of PAN were used in producing membranes and nonwoven filter materials. Municipal water authorities in Brazil, South Africa, and Vietnam commissioned 11 new water treatment facilities using PAN nanofiber membranes. Additionally, demand from hospitals and laboratories grew as PAN fibers were incorporated into face masks, surgical gowns, and isolation garments. Medical-grade PAN usage rose to 8,600 metric tons in 2023, with high demand in the U.S., Germany, and South Korea. The biocompatibility, microbial resistance, and fine pore structure of PAN fibers make them a strong candidate for expansion in health-tech and environmental markets.

CHALLENGE

Energy-intensive production and carbon emission footprint

The energy requirements for PAN polymerization and fiber spinning processes are substantial, with average power consumption exceeding 1,600 kWh per metric ton. In 2023, this contributed to an estimated 2.8 million metric tons of CO2 emissions globally from PAN production activities. Several governments, including those in Canada, Germany, and South Korea, have introduced carbon pricing mechanisms or industrial emission caps that could impact PAN manufacturing competitiveness. The shift to low-carbon or renewable energy in processing plants is still limited, with fewer than 8% of facilities running on solar or hydroelectric power. As sustainability becomes a procurement criterion, PAN producers must innovate in energy efficiency and emission reduction strategies to maintain market access, particularly in environmentally sensitive regions.

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Market Segmentation

The polyacrylonitrile (PAN) market is segmented by type and application, with significant differences in demand volumes and industrial relevance. In 2023, Acrylic Staple Fiber accounted for over 1.4 million metric tons, dominating the segment due to widespread usage in textiles and apparel. Acrylic Tow followed with 580,000 metric tons, mainly used in bulk fiber manufacturing for carpets and upholstery. Acrylic Top, a more refined product used in high-end yarn spinning, contributed approximately 320,000 metric tons. By application, the largest segment was Textiles, consuming over 1.7 million metric tons, followed by Carbon Fiber Precursors at 450,000 metric tons. Filtration accounted for 140,000 metric tons, while Outdoor and Fiber-reinforced Concrete made up 110,000 and 76,000 metric tons, respectively.

By Type

• Acrylic Staple Fiber: led PAN consumption in 2023 with over 1.4 million metric tons, driven by demand in sweaters, blankets, and synthetic wool. These fibers are especially popular in Russia, China, and Canada, where cold climates support winter apparel demand. Growth in synthetic yarn exports from Asia also supported this segment.
• Acrylic Tow: saw production and usage exceed 580,000 metric tons. This type is essential for producing bulk continuous filament yarns, widely used in commercial carpets and automobile upholstery. North America and Eastern Europe were key markets for acrylic tow applications.
• Acrylic Top: accounted for roughly 320,000 metric tons in 2023. Used primarily in high-quality worsted yarns and precision spinning processes, this type found its highest uptake in Western Europe and Japan. Increased demand for soft-feel and premium yarns elevated its share in the textile segment.

By Application

• Filtration: In 2023, the filtration application of PAN fibers accounted for approximately 140,000 metric tons globally. PAN is widely used in both liquid and air filtration systems due to its excellent thermal resistance, chemical inertness, and compatibility with nanofiber spinning technologies. Around 37,500 metric tons of PAN were consumed in the production of nanofiber membranes for water treatment plants, especially across Vietnam, Brazil, and India. Industrial air purification systems used another 18,500 metric tons, with demand rising due to stringent air quality regulations in China and South Korea. Healthcare-related filtration—especially surgical masks, lab filters, and HEPA-grade panels—absorbed 11,800 metric tons, a 14% increase over 2022, with high uptake in Germany, Japan, and the United States.
• Textiles: The textile industry was the largest consumer of PAN in 2023, utilizing over 1.7 million metric tons. Acrylic staple fibers made from PAN have become essential in producing synthetic wool, blankets, knitwear, and industrial uniforms. Cold climate regions such as Russia, Canada, and Northern Europe collectively accounted for over 320,000 metric tons of PAN textile use due to demand for thermal-insulating garments. In South Asia, India and Bangladesh consumed more than 280,000 metric tons for domestic and export-focused garment production. PAN blends with polyester and cotton were extensively used in sportswear, workwear, and hospital garments, contributing another 210,000 metric tons. Additionally, demand for anti-pilling, UV-resistant, and flame-retardant PAN fibers drove the development of 14 new textile variants during 2023.
• Precursors to Carbon Fiber: Approximately 450,000 metric tons of PAN were converted into carbon fiber precursors in 2023. The carbon fiber industry heavily depends on PAN due to its molecular stability and high carbon yield. Aerospace applications—including commercial aircraft and defense drones—absorbed over 110,000 metric tons, with major activity in the U.S., France, and China. Wind turbine blade production consumed another 180,000 metric tons, particularly in India, Germany, and Spain, driven by renewable energy targets. Automotive lightweighting programs in Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. accounted for 76,000 metric tons, focused on EV components and body panels. An additional 84,000 metric tons were used in sports and industrial applications like bicycles, robotic arms, and marine structures.
• Outdoor: The outdoor segment used approximately 110,000 metric tons of PAN in 2023. These applications include tents, tarpaulins, awnings, canopies, and outdoor upholstery. The PAN fibers’ resistance to UV degradation and environmental wear makes them ideal for long-life outdoor fabrics. In Australia, South Africa, and Brazil, over 40,000 metric tons were used in outdoor structures and agricultural shading solutions. In the U.S. and Western Europe, about 38,000 metric tons were used for premium outdoor furniture fabrics and weatherproof coverings. Demand also grew for flame-retardant outdoor textiles in public infrastructure, with 12,000 metric tons allocated for municipal and defense use. The remainder was absorbed in event structures and commercial banners, which require color retention and high tensile strength.
• Fiber-Reinforced Concrete: The use of PAN in fiber-reinforced concrete reached 76,000 metric tons globally in 2023, driven by infrastructure projects that demand high crack resistance and tensile strength. PAN fibers were increasingly preferred over glass and polypropylene due to their durability and resistance to chemical degradation. In China, over 28,000 metric tons were used in urban infrastructure upgrades, including tunnel linings and metro construction. The Middle East, especially Saudi Arabia and the UAE, used more than 22,000 metric tons in airport expansions and bridge reinforcements. In Turkey and Iran, ongoing seismic retrofitting of buildings led to consumption of 14,000 metric tons of PAN-reinforced concrete. An additional 12,000 metric tons were distributed across other emerging markets, including Nigeria, Indonesia, and Mexico, for smart city and highway projects..

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Market Regional Outlook

• North America

PAN consumption exceeded 370,000 metric tons in 2023. The U.S. accounted for over 310,000 metric tons, primarily in carbon fiber precursors and textiles. Canada used 45,000 metric tons, with demand focused on winter apparel and automotive upholstery. Mexico’s contribution was 15,000 metric tons, mainly in filtration and nonwoven textiles.

• Europe

recorded PAN demand of more than 410,000 metric tons. Germany led with 120,000 metric tons, including 48,000 metric tons dedicated to carbon fiber production. France and Italy followed with 70,000 and 63,000 metric tons, respectively. Textiles and advanced materials for construction were dominant end-uses in the region.

• Asia-Pacific

led the global market, with total PAN consumption reaching 1.5 million metric tons in 2023. China contributed over 1.1 million metric tons, dominating across all application segments. India accounted for 140,000 metric tons, primarily in filtration and textile exports. Japan and South Korea together consumed 110,000 metric tons, especially in medical-grade fibers and electronics components.

• Middle East & Africa

recorded 110,000 metric tons of PAN usage. The UAE and Saudi Arabia contributed a combined 72,000 metric tons, focusing on fiber-reinforced concrete and industrial filtration. South Africa used 28,000 metric tons, mainly in apparel and automotive sectors. The remaining volume was distributed across Egypt, Nigeria, and Kenya, where textile applications led.

List Of Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Companies

• AKSA
• Dralon
• Mitsubishi Chemical
• Aditya Birla Group
• Formosa Plastics Corporation
• TOYOBO (Exlan)
• Taekwang
• Toray
• Kaltex
• Montefibre
• Pasupati Acrylon
• SGL (Fisipe)
• SDF Group
• Indian Acrylics
• Sinopec
• Jilin Chemical Fiber
• CNPC
• Jiangsu Zhongxin Group
• Zhejiang Hangzhouwan

AKSA: is the largest producer in the PAN market, with an annual production capacity of over 308,000 metric tons. The company accounted for more than 12% of the global PAN fiber output in 2023. AKSA’s operations span both textile-grade and carbon-fiber precursor grades, with over 68,000 metric tons supplied for aerospace and defense composites.

Dralon: ranks second globally with a capacity exceeding 240,000 metric tons. In 2023, Dralon produced 215,000 metric tons of PAN fibers, of which 156,000 metric tons were utilized in textiles and apparel. Dralon’s advanced staple fiber variants were exported to more than 30 countries, especially across Europe and Latin America.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

In 2023, the PAN industry experienced a surge in capital investment exceeding $1.2 billion equivalent across plant expansions, technology upgrades, and sustainability-focused projects. Asia-Pacific dominated with more than 20 facility expansion announcements. China added over 180,000 metric tons of PAN fiber capacity through five new plants. India announced two new units with combined capacity of 55,000 metric tons, primarily aimed at meeting export demand in textiles and medical-grade materials. North America followed with major investment from the U.S. in carbon fiber precursor plants. Two facilities in Texas and Ohio together attracted over $310 million, adding 48,000 metric tons of PAN precursor output by end-2024. These investments were largely driven by the Department of Energy-backed initiatives to support wind and solar infrastructure. In Europe, modernization projects received public and private support worth $270 million. Germany’s leading PAN manufacturers retrofitted four plants to reduce acrylonitrile emissions by 19% and improve energy efficiency by 14%. Italy and France each upgraded production lines with the goal of integrating closed-loop water systems and reducing polymer waste. Middle Eastern nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE invested $95 million combined in developing PAN for construction reinforcement applications. The region aims to replace fiberglass in rebar with PAN-based alternatives for long-term durability. The construction-grade PAN segment is expected to consume over 20,000 metric tons by 2025 across GCC countries. Growing opportunities are tied to PAN applications in lithium-ion battery separators, where early-stage trials in Japan and South Korea used over 4,000 metric tons of specialized PAN variants in 2023. Global filtration manufacturers also announced five co-investments across Vietnam, Poland, and South Africa to establish PAN nanofiber membrane production units totaling 18,000 metric tons annually.

New Product Development

The PAN market saw substantial innovation in 2023 and 2024, with over 30 new product variants introduced globally. More than 12 manufacturers launched advanced PAN-based fibers tailored for next-generation carbon fiber composites, resulting in over 65,000 metric tons of high-purity PAN variants entering the market. These new grades featured improved molecular weight distribution and reduced acrylonitrile residue to below 0.2%, significantly enhancing carbon conversion efficiency. In the textile industry, five new PAN fiber types were commercialized with enhanced UV resistance and dye uptake. These accounted for over 48,000 metric tons of production, with applications in premium apparel and outdoor fabrics. Demand for ultra-soft PAN yarns increased by 9%, especially in Europe and Japan. Filtration-focused product development led to the release of three new nanofiber PAN membranes in 2023. These innovations improved membrane porosity by 18% and lifespan by 24%, resulting in 12,000 metric tons of deployment across municipal and industrial filtration systems worldwide. China and Germany were primary adopters of these high-performance PAN filter media. New composite blends combining PAN with biopolymers were piloted in South Korea and the U.S., contributing 5,800 metric tons in 2023. These were targeted for use in medical textiles and biodegradable packaging solutions. The launch of these environmentally sensitive materials reflects growing emphasis on sustainability in the PAN market.

Five Recent Developments

• AKSA commissioned a new carbon fiber-grade PAN facility in Turkey with an annual capacity of 40,000 metric tons, completed in Q2 2023.
• Dralon launched a bio-based PAN fiber pilot line using renewable acrylonitrile sources, reaching a trial output of 3,500 metric tons in 2024.
• Toray collaborated with a U.S. clean energy firm to deliver 6,200 metric tons of PAN precursors for hydrogen fuel cell components in 2023.
• Sinopec introduced a high-tenacity PAN tow product for industrial fabrics, producing 14,000 metric tons by the end of 2023.
• Jilin Chemical Fiber patented a new copolymer PAN blend designed for use in fire-resistant protective gear, with 2,600 metric tons already shipped.

Report Coverage of Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) Market

The global Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) market report delivers an exhaustive and data-driven analysis of industry performance between 2023 and 2024, capturing the dynamics of both historical trends and emerging developments. The scope of the report includes over 40 countries, spanning major industrial regions such as Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, and the Middle East & Africa. It profiles 19 leading market participants, each contributing to the more than 2.4 million metric tons of PAN fiber produced globally in 2023. This report covers three main PAN product types—Acrylic Staple Fiber, Acrylic Tow, and Acrylic Top—analyzing them through a lens of volume output, application sectors, and regional demand. Acrylic Staple Fiber accounted for over 1.4 million metric tons, serving key markets in textiles and synthetic wool applications. Acrylic Tow reached 580,000 metric tons, primarily consumed in upholstery, carpets, and bulk fiber processing. Acrylic Top recorded a smaller but specialized presence of 320,000 metric tons, favored in high-grade yarns and precision spinning sectors. The report further breaks down PAN applications into five principal categories: Textiles, Carbon Fiber Precursors, Filtration, Outdoor Products, and Fiber-Reinforced Concrete. In 2023, the textile segment dominated, consuming more than 1.7 million metric tons. Carbon fiber precursors, essential for aerospace, defense, and clean energy applications, absorbed 450,000 metric tons of PAN globally. Filtration uses accounted for 140,000 metric tons, while outdoor products such as tents and technical fabrics used 110,000 metric tons. The construction sector, driven by infrastructure investments, consumed approximately 76,000 metric tons in fiber-reinforced concrete. Geographically, Asia-Pacific led the global PAN market with over 1.5 million metric tons in demand. China alone produced more than 1.1 million metric tons, with additional contributions from India, Japan, and South Korea. Europe followed with 410,000 metric tons, and North America reached 370,000 metric tons—both focused on advanced composites and textile markets. The Middle East & Africa, an emerging hub, consumed 110,000 metric tons, primarily in industrial filtration and construction-grade fibers.

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