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2.1.2 OVERVIEW OF THE GLOBAL CARBON INDUSTRY
Globally, the carbon manufacturing industry plays a central role in industrial and
environmental sustainability. Major producers include China, India, the United States, Japan,
and European nations, which supply a wide range of carbon materials for different applications.
The activated carbon market, in particular, has grown rapidly due to rising concerns
about water pollution, air purification, and industrial emissions. Similarly, carbon black is
extensively used in tire and rubber production, while graphite is essential in batteries,
lubricants, and electrical applications.
The global activated carbon market was valued at over USD 4.6 billion in 2024 and is
projected to grow steadily due to industrialization and stricter environmental laws. The carbon
black market is estimated to exceed USD 15 billion by 2030, driven by the automotive sector’s
growth.
Modern carbon industries are moving toward energy-efficient, low-emission
manufacturing systems, using renewable carbon sources and recycling waste by-products.
Continuous R&D investments are being made to develop graphene-based materials, which hold
immense potential in electronics, energy storage, and nanotechnology.
Despite global challenges like raw material cost fluctuations and trade restrictions, the
carbon industry remains a cornerstone of industrial growth, providing solutions for cleaner
environments and sustainable technologies.
2.1.3 CARBON INDUSTRY IN INDIA
The carbon industry in India is one of the country’s most important industrial sectors,
supporting several other industries such as steel, water purification, chemicals, and energy.
India is among the leading producers and exporters of carbon-based materials like activated
carbon, carbon black, graphite, and industrial charcoal. The country benefits from the
availability of natural raw materials such as coconut shells, coal, and wood, along with a large
pool of skilled and semi-skilled workers.
In India, the southern states -especially Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh play
a key role in activated carbon production because of their access to raw materials like coconut
shells.