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China Activated Carbon Market

ID: MRFR/CnM/43996-HCR
111 Pages
Chitranshi Jaiswal
February 2026

China Activated Carbon Market Research Report: By Product Type (Powdered, Granular, Others), By Raw Material (Coal, Coconut, Wood, Peat, Others), By Application (Liquid-Phase, Gas-Phase) andBy End User (Water Treatment, FoodBeverage Processing, PharmaceuticalMedical, Automotive, Air Purification, Mining, Textiles, Electronics, Others)- Forecast to 2035

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China Activated Carbon Market Summary

As per Market Research Future analysis, the Activated Carbon market Size was estimated at 615.6 USD Million in 2024. The activated carbon market is projected to grow from 662.39 USD Million in 2025 to 1378.26 USD Million by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7% during the forecast period 2025 - 2035

Key Market Trends & Highlights

The China activated carbon market is experiencing robust growth driven by increasing demand for water treatment and sustainable practices.

  • The largest segment in the China activated carbon market is water treatment, reflecting a rising demand for effective purification solutions.
  • Technological advancements in production processes are enhancing the efficiency and quality of activated carbon products.
  • The fastest-growing segment is air treatment, driven by heightened awareness of air quality issues and environmental concerns.
  • Key market drivers include increasing industrial applications and regulatory support for environmental standards, which are propelling market expansion.

Market Size & Forecast

2024 Market Size 615.6 (USD Million)
2035 Market Size 1378.26 (USD Million)
CAGR (2025 - 2035) 7.6%

Major Players

Calgon Carbon Corporation (US), Cabot Corporation (US), Kuraray Co Ltd (JP), Haycarb PLC (LK), Activated Carbon Technologies (US), Carbotech AC (DE), Carbon Resources LLC (US), Evoqua Water Technologies (US), Silcarbon Aktivkohle GmbH (DE)

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China Activated Carbon Market Trends

The activated carbon market is experiencing notable growth, driven by increasing environmental concerns and stringent regulations regarding air and water quality. In recent years, there has been a heightened awareness of the importance of clean air and safe drinking water, leading to a surge in demand for activated carbon products. This material is widely utilized in various applications, including water treatment, air purification, and industrial processes. The market appears to be evolving, with advancements in technology enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of activated carbon solutions. Furthermore, the rise of industries such as pharmaceuticals and food processing is likely to contribute to the expansion of this market, as these sectors increasingly rely on activated carbon for purification and filtration purposes. In addition, the activated carbon market is witnessing a shift towards sustainable practices. Manufacturers are exploring innovative methods to produce activated carbon from renewable resources, which may align with the growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendliness. This trend could potentially reshape the competitive landscape, as companies that adopt greener production techniques may gain a competitive edge. Overall, the activated carbon market is poised for continued growth, driven by both regulatory pressures and evolving consumer preferences for cleaner, safer products.

Rising Demand for Water Treatment Solutions

The activated carbon market is seeing a significant increase in demand for water treatment applications. This trend is largely influenced by the need for effective filtration systems to ensure safe drinking water. As urbanization continues to expand, the pressure on water resources intensifies, prompting investments in advanced purification technologies that utilize activated carbon.

Technological Advancements in Production

Innovations in the production processes of activated carbon are emerging as a key trend. Enhanced manufacturing techniques are likely to improve the quality and performance of activated carbon products. These advancements may also lead to cost reductions, making activated carbon more accessible for various applications across different industries.

Focus on Sustainable Practices

There is a growing emphasis on sustainability within the activated carbon market. Manufacturers are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, such as sourcing raw materials from renewable resources. This shift towards sustainability not only meets regulatory requirements but also aligns with consumer preferences for environmentally responsible products.

Market Segment Insights

By Application: Water Treatment (Largest) vs. Air Purification (Fastest-Growing)

In the China activated carbon market, Water Treatment holds the largest share, driven by the increasing demand for clean and safe drinking water. This segment dominates due to the widespread application of activated carbon in municipal and industrial water treatment plants. Air Purification is emerging rapidly, fueled by heightened air quality concerns and strict environmental regulations, making it the fastest-growing segment in this market. The growth trends in these segments are influenced by various factors. The need for efficient water treatment solutions is escalating due to urbanization and pollution, boosting demand for activated carbon. Conversely, Air Purification is growing faster due to rising awareness of air pollution’s health effects, leading to increased usage in residential and commercial applications. These trends signify evolving consumer preferences and regulatory pressures driving the market forward.

Water Treatment (Dominant) vs. Food and Beverage Processing (Emerging)

Water Treatment is the dominant segment in the China activated carbon market, primarily due to its critical role in ensuring potable water quality. This segment leverages activated carbon's excellent adsorption capabilities to remove impurities, making it essential for both municipal and industrial applications. In contrast, Food and Beverage Processing is an emerging segment that utilizes activated carbon for decolorization, purification, and flavor enhancement, particularly in the production of beverages and processed foods. As consumers demand higher quality and safer food products, this emerging segment is poised to grow significantly, reflecting a broader trend towards health and sustainability in the China activated carbon market.

By Type: Granular Activated Carbon (Largest) vs. Powdered Activated Carbon (Fastest-Growing)

In the China activated carbon market, the segmentation by type reveals that Granular Activated Carbon holds the largest share, attributed to its extensive use in air and water filtration applications. Meanwhile, Powdered Activated Carbon is emerging rapidly, gaining traction in industrial processes due to its superior adsorption characteristics, thus presenting a significant shift in market dynamics. Looking at growth trends, Powdered Activated Carbon's demand is being driven by the increasing regulatory focus on pollution control and the need for high-efficiency solutions in wastewater treatment. Furthermore, Extruded Activated Carbon is also gaining recognition for its robustness and efficiency in specialized applications, contributing to an overall upward trajectory in the segment, driven by innovation and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Granular Activated Carbon (Dominant) vs. Powdered Activated Carbon (Emerging)

Granular Activated Carbon is characterized by its larger particle size, making it ideal for applications requiring high flow rates and durability. This segment dominates the market due to its effectiveness in adsorption for both gaseous and liquid contaminants. Conversely, Powdered Activated Carbon features a fine particle size, providing a much larger surface area for adsorption, and is gaining popularity in diverse industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and air treatment systems. This shift towards finer grades marks an evolutionary trend in the industry, with environmental regulations further propelling its growth.

By End-use: Industrial (Largest) vs. Residential (Fastest-Growing)

In the China activated carbon market, the industrial segment holds the largest share, driven primarily by its extensive application in various manufacturing processes. The industrial end-use accounts for a significant portion of the total market, reflecting the demand from sectors such as water treatment, air purification, and others where activated carbon plays a critical role. On the other hand, the residential segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment, fueled by rising consumer awareness regarding air quality and the increasing adoption of air purifiers in households. This growth is also supported by government initiatives promoting clean air and the growing trend towards sustainable living, making activated carbon a preferred choice in residential applications.

Industrial (Dominant) vs. Residential (Emerging)

The industrial end-use of activated carbon is characterized by its dominance in the market, largely due to its critical role in various applications, including water treatment, air filtration, and industrial processes. As industries continuously seek to improve environmental standards and adhere to regulations, the demand for effective filtration solutions remains robust. Conversely, the residential segment, which is rapidly emerging, is witnessing growth driven by heightened consumer awareness of indoor air quality and health concerns. This segment is capitalizing on trends such as the surge in air purifier sales, making activated carbon a popular choice for consumers looking for efficient air-cleaning solutions in their homes.

By Production Method: Physical Activation (Largest) vs. Chemical Activation (Fastest-Growing)

In the China activated carbon market, the production method segment is primarily dominated by Physical Activation, which holds a significant share due to its extensive application in air and water purification systems. This method is preferred for its effectiveness in producing high-quality activated carbon while maintaining cost efficiency. On the other hand, Chemical Activation has been gaining traction, especially in niche applications requiring specific characteristics of activated carbon. This shift in preference towards Chemical Activation reflects a growing demand for customized solutions in various industrial sectors. The growth trends within this segment indicate a robust expansion trajectory for both methods, with Chemical Activation identified as the fastest-growing segment. Factors driving this growth include an increase in environmental regulations and a rising demand for water treatment technologies. Additionally, the versatility of Chemical Activation in producing activated carbon with tailored properties contributes to its popularity among manufacturers and end-users alike, positioning it as a key player in the market dynamics.

Production Method: Physical Activation (Dominant) vs. Chemical Activation (Emerging)

Physical Activation is recognized as the dominant production method in the China activated carbon market, favored for its reliable performance and cost-effectiveness in producing activated carbon suitable for various purification applications. It utilizes heat and steam to activate carbon, ensuring a porous structure that enhances adsorption efficiency. In contrast, Chemical Activation is emerging rapidly due to its ability to produce activated carbon with specific physical and chemical properties tailored for particular applications, such as in the chemical industry or specialized environmental solutions. This method involves treating raw materials with chemical agents before activation, allowing for a significant reduction in energy consumption and more versatile product offerings, thus appealing to a growing segment of the market.

Get more detailed insights about China Activated Carbon Market

Key Players and Competitive Insights

The activated carbon market in China is characterized by a dynamic competitive landscape, driven by increasing demand across various sectors such as water treatment, air purification, and industrial processes. Key players are actively pursuing strategies that emphasize innovation, sustainability, and regional expansion. For instance, Calgon Carbon Corporation (US) has positioned itself as a leader in the market by focusing on advanced manufacturing techniques and product development, which enhances its competitive edge. Similarly, Kuraray Co Ltd (JP) is leveraging its strong R&D capabilities to introduce high-performance activated carbon products, thereby catering to the growing needs of diverse applications. These strategic initiatives collectively contribute to a competitive environment that is increasingly focused on technological advancement and customer-centric solutions.In terms of business tactics, companies are localizing manufacturing to reduce costs and improve supply chain efficiency. This approach is particularly relevant in a moderately fragmented market where several players vie for market share. The collective influence of major companies, such as Cabot Corporation (US) and Haycarb PLC (LK), is shaping the market structure, as they optimize their operations to enhance service delivery and product availability. The emphasis on supply chain optimization is crucial, especially in a landscape where timely delivery and quality assurance are paramount.

In October Cabot Corporation (US) announced a strategic partnership with a leading Chinese water treatment firm to enhance its market presence in the region. This collaboration is expected to facilitate the development of innovative solutions tailored to local needs, thereby strengthening Cabot's foothold in the activated carbon sector. The strategic importance of this partnership lies in its potential to leverage local expertise and resources, which could significantly enhance product offerings and customer engagement.

In September Haycarb PLC (LK) launched a new line of sustainable activated carbon products aimed at reducing environmental impact. This initiative aligns with global trends towards sustainability and positions Haycarb as a forward-thinking player in the market. The introduction of eco-friendly products not only meets regulatory demands but also appeals to environmentally conscious consumers, thereby expanding the company's market reach.

In November Evoqua Water Technologies (US) unveiled a digital platform designed to optimize the performance of activated carbon systems in water treatment applications. This technological advancement reflects a broader trend towards digitalization within the industry, enabling real-time monitoring and management of carbon usage. The strategic significance of this development lies in its potential to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs for end-users, thereby solidifying Evoqua's competitive position.

As of November the activated carbon market is witnessing trends that emphasize digitalization, sustainability, and the integration of advanced technologies such as AI. Strategic alliances are increasingly shaping the competitive landscape, allowing companies to pool resources and expertise to drive innovation. The shift from price-based competition to a focus on technological differentiation and supply chain reliability is becoming evident. Moving forward, companies that prioritize innovation and sustainability are likely to emerge as leaders in this evolving market.

Key Companies in the China Activated Carbon Market include

Industry Developments

In recent months, the China Activated Carbon Market has seen various developments and noteworthy events. As of October 2023, Sanstar Group has achieved significant growth in production capacity owing to increasing domestic demand for air and water purification solutions. Shanxi Fucheng Activated Carbon Co Ltd reported enhancements in their production processes to improve product quality and sustainability, while Ningxia Huahui Activated Carbon Co Ltd has expanded its export activities, tapping into international markets.

Additionally, in September 2023, Jiangsu Beter Environmental Technology Co Ltd announced a strategic partnership with Haycarb PLC to collaborate on innovative carbon filtration technologies, marking an important step in the sector. The overall market valuation within the activated carbon industry has seen a favorable increase, driven by rising environmental regulations necessitating cleaner technologies and products. Over the past couple of years, cities across China have intensified their efforts to enhance air quality, spurring higher demand for activated carbon products.

Notably, Fuan Zhonglin Activated Carbon Co Ltd has started diversifying its product line to cater to the evolving market needs, further signaling a robust growth trajectory in this sector as companies adapt to competitive environmental markets.

Future Outlook

China Activated Carbon Market Future Outlook

The activated carbon market in China is projected to grow at a 7.6% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, driven by increasing environmental regulations and demand for air and water purification.

New opportunities lie in:

  • Development of advanced filtration systems for industrial applications.
  • Expansion into emerging markets with tailored activated carbon solutions.
  • Investment in R&D for innovative carbon capture technologies.

By 2035, the activated carbon market is expected to achieve substantial growth and innovation.

Market Segmentation

China Activated Carbon Market Type Outlook

  • Granular Activated Carbon
  • Powdered Activated Carbon
  • Extruded Activated Carbon

China Activated Carbon Market End-use Outlook

  • Industrial
  • Residential
  • Commercial

China Activated Carbon Market Application Outlook

  • Water Treatment
  • Air Purification
  • Food and Beverage Processing
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Gold Recovery

China Activated Carbon Market Production Method Outlook

  • Physical Activation
  • Chemical Activation

Report Scope

MARKET SIZE 2024 615.6(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2025 662.39(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2035 1378.26(USD Million)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) 7.6% (2025 - 2035)
REPORT COVERAGE Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
BASE YEAR 2024
Market Forecast Period 2025 - 2035
Historical Data 2019 - 2024
Market Forecast Units USD Million
Key Companies Profiled Calgon Carbon Corporation (US), Cabot Corporation (US), Kuraray Co Ltd (JP), Haycarb PLC (LK), Activated Carbon Technologies (US), Carbotech AC (DE), Carbon Resources LLC (US), Evoqua Water Technologies (US), Silcarbon Aktivkohle GmbH (DE)
Segments Covered Application, Type, End-use, Production Method
Key Market Opportunities Growing demand for sustainable water treatment solutions drives innovation in the activated carbon market.
Key Market Dynamics Rising demand for air and water purification drives innovation and competition in the activated carbon market.
Countries Covered China
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FAQs

What is the expected market size of the China Activated Carbon Market in 2024?

The China Activated Carbon Market is expected to be valued at 1.06 USD Billion in 2024.

How much is the China Activated Carbon Market projected to grow by 2035?

By 2035, the market is projected to reach a value of 2.43 USD Billion.

What is the expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the China Activated Carbon Market from 2025 to 2035?

The expected CAGR for the market from 2025 to 2035 is 7.859%.

What are the key players operating in the China Activated Carbon Market?

Major players include Sanstar Group, Shanxi Fucheng Activated Carbon Co Ltd, and Calgon Carbon Corporation among others.

What is the market size for powdered activated carbon in 2024?

The market size for powdered activated carbon is expected to be 0.42 USD Billion in 2024.

What is the market size for granular activated carbon in 2024?

Granular activated carbon is expected to have a market size of 0.52 USD Billion in 2024.

How much is the market size for the 'others' segment in the China Activated Carbon Market in 2024?

The 'others' segment is expected to be valued at 0.12 USD Billion in 2024.

What opportunities exist for growth in the China Activated Carbon Market?

There are opportunities driven by increasing demand in water treatment and air purification applications.

What impact do current global scenarios have on the China Activated Carbon Market?

Global scenarios may influence supply chains and pricing strategies within the activated carbon market.

Which product segment of the China Activated Carbon Market is expected to experience significant growth?

Both powdered and granular activated carbon segments are expected to show substantial growth by 2035.

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