SAN ANTONIO, June 7, 2005 -- The U.S. microfiltration membrane markets are rapidly growing with the continuous expansion and rising product sophistication in key end-user industries such as biopharmaceutical, water and wastewater treatment and other industrial applications.
New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, U.S. Microfiltration Membrane Markets, reveals that revenue in this market totaled $791.8 million in 2004 and projects to reach $1302.7 million in 2011.
What trends propel positive growth in this market?
-- Continuous expansion and product sophistication of key end-user industries
-- Continuous Improvement in Membrane Technology and Pricing
-- Increasing use of microfiltration for secondary effluent polishing
-- Heightened public awareness of drinking water quality enhance market growth
-- Aversion to chemical water treatment stimulate sales of membrane water treatment equipment
"While these factors push expansion, the key drivers of this market are increasing demand for filtration products in new generation biotherapeutic products and the growing trend of microfiltration applications as RO pretreatment," observes Frost & Sullivan research analyst Renee Chu.
Of course, there are hindrances. Among challenges facing this market, a key factor is variability in the growth patterns of major end-user industries.
Although industries such as biopharmceuticals and microelectronics manufacturing are typically considered high growth markets that present profitable opportunities for microfiltration membrane suppliers, these markets experience fluctuations that are not always predictable. As a result, market downturn and other obstacles that may hinder the development of new products create uncertainties for membrane suppliers that cater specifically to these industries.
With these challenges, who can succeed?
There are opportunities for manufacturers with diversified product and service capabilities to serve a broad range of end markets. Microfiltration membrane manufacturers with such extended capacities may leverage on this competitive advantage and maintain their market positions despite market fluctuations.
Frost & Sullivan (www.environment.frost.com), a global growth consulting company, has been partnering with clients to support the development of innovative strategies for more than 40 years. The company's industry expertise integrates growth consulting, growth partnership services, and corporate management training to identify and develop opportunities. Frost & Sullivan serves an extensive clientele that includes Global 1,000 companies, emerging companies, and the investment community by providing comprehensive industry coverage that combines ongoing analysis of markets, technologies, econometrics, and demographics.
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