Report Highlights
The global market for thin film materials increased from $6.9 billion in 2009 to nearly $8.4 billion in 2010 and it is estimated to be valued at nearly $9.3 billion in 2011. BCC projects this market to reach nearly $14.9 billion by 2016 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10%.
Report Scope
This study provides an updated review of thin film technologies, including materials and production processes, and it identifies current and emerging applications for these technologies.
BCC Research determines the current market status for thin film materials, defines trends and presents forecasts of growth over the next five years. The thin film material industry is also analyzed on a worldwide basis from the standpoint of both manufacturing and consumption. In addition, technological issues, including the latest process developments and events, are discussed.
More specifically, BCC’s market analysis is divided into six main parts. In the first part, a historical review of thin film technology is provided, including an outline of recent events. The report also supplies a description of current and emerging applications for thin and ultrathin films.
The second part of the study provides a technological review of thin film deposition processes, free-standing thin films and materials used to manufacture thin and ultrathin films. Each of the three sections concludes with an analysis of the most important technological developments and improvements since 2009, including examples of significant patents recently issued or applied for. This part of the study also offers a brief discussion of the most relevant technological trends related to the materials used for thin film deposition.
The third part of the report entails a global market analysis of materials for thin and ultrathin films. Global revenues (sales data in millions of dollars) are presented by application, deposition technology, film thickness and region, with actual data referring to the years 2009 and 2010, and estimates for 2011.
This section concludes with a presentation of market growth trends, based on industry growth, technological trends and regional trends. Projected revenues are reported, with forecast compound annual growth rates (CAGR) for the period 2011 through 2016.
Next, six optional sections are offered. These sections provide a more focused discussion of the thin film materials market for the six main sectors in which thin films are typically applied (specifically: electronics, optoelectronics, mechanical/chemical, energy, optical coatings and life sciences and others). In these optional sections, additional details by sector on current market conditions and key trends and developments are provided, in addition to market growth projections for each sector.
In the next part of the study that covers global industry structure, the report offers a list of the leading manufacturers of thin film materials, together with a description of their products. The analysis includes a description of the geographical distribution of these suppliers and an evaluation of thin film material production versus consumption, always from a geographical standpoint. Detailed company profiles of the top industry players are also provided.
The final part of the report includes an extensive U.S. patent analysis, with a summary of patents related to thin film materials, deposition methods and applications issued in 2011. Patent analysis is performed by region, country, assignee, patent category and deposition process.
Analyst Credentials
Margareth Gagliardi, Chief Research Analyst in Advanced Materials for BCC Research, has more than 30 years of experience in the field of advanced materials, specializing in ceramic formulations, materials processing, and new product development. After receiving her degrees in Chemical and Ceramic Engineering, she worked in both manufacturing and R&D holding senior management positions within U.S. and European firms producing electronic, mechanical, chemical, and structural components.
She is currently focusing on market intelligence and advanced technologies analysis for organizations and research institutions that operate within a range of high-tech industries.
Related Reports
Fiber Optic Sensors: Global Markets
The global market value for fiber optic sensors is projected to increase in 2011 to more than $1.2 billion. In 2012, global market value is forecast to be more than $1.5 billion. Given a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5%, the global market value is calculated to increase to more than $2.5 billion in 2017.
Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs): Technologies and Global Markets
Total organic light-emitting diode market shipments reached $3 billion approximately in 2010 and will increase to more than $3 billion by 2011. And this market is estimated to reach to $5.2 billion at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.6%.
Sputtering Targets and Sputtered Films: Technology and Markets
The global market for sputtering targets is estimated to reach $3.3 billion in 2011 and further to reach $5.9 billion by 2016 with a CAGR of 12.3% over the five year period.
MEMS: Biosensors and Nanosensors
BCC estimates the global market for microsensors at nearly $5.2 billion in 2010, increasing to nearly $5.9 billion in 2011 and $12 billion in 2016, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.3% between 2011 and 2016.
Track the Latest Global Tariff Developments
In today's fast-paced global economy, tariffs are no longer static—they are dynamic levers shaped by geopolitical realignments, supply chain vulnerabilities, inflationary pressures, and sustainability-driven trade reforms. As governments worldwide recalibrate their trade strategies, businesses are left to navigate a maze of shifting rules, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainty.
Our analysis empowers you with real-time updates and in-depth expert analysis on all facets of global tariff activity. From new trade agreements and sanctions to abrupt tariff hikes and retaliatory duties, we monitor developments across borders, sectors, and industries—so you don't have to.
Whether it's the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics, the evolving EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), or the emerging policies in India, ASEAN, and Latin America, we provide full-spectrum coverage. We also track multilateral trade negotiations, World Trade Organization (WTO) rulings, and sector-specific duty structures—ensuring you are always ahead of global trade shifts.
With our analysis, you can stay informed, identify risks, and confidently respond to tariff changes—no matter where you operate.
Ready to see what tariff means for your business?
Consult with our experts or request your custom Tariff Impact Brife today
Stay Informed, Stay Competitive
In today's interconnected and unpredictable global economy, staying ahead of tariff shifts is not just important—it's essential. BCC Research provides decision-makers with trusted, research-driven insights that turn uncertainty into opportunity.
Our in-depth market analysis and trade intelligence help you decode how tariff changes impact your specific sector—manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, or energy. We break down complex data into actionable knowledge through comprehensive reports, expert commentaries, and sector-focused forecasts.
Our analysis includes:
- Thorough breakdowns of current and proposed tariff policies and how they affect regional and global trade flows.
- Sector-specific implications, helping you understand the strategic impact on sourcing, pricing, and competitiveness.
- Forward-looking insights to support risk management, planning, and response strategies for evolving trade conditions.
With BCC Research, you gain more than just information—you gain clarity and confidence to make well-informed decisions in a volatile trade environment.
Don't let tariffs catch you off guard—let our insights guide your strategy.
Recent Reports
Semiconductor Devices for High-Temperature Applications: Market Opportunities
The global market for semiconductor devices for high-temperature applications is estimated to increase from $11.8 billion in 2024 to reach $18.5 billion by 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4% from 2024 through 2029.
2024 Semiconductor Manufacturing Research Review
This 2024 Research Review of the Semiconductor Manufacturing provides a sampling of the type of quantitative market information, analysis, and guidance that BCC Research has been developing since its inception in 1971 to help its customers make informed business decisions.
Global Markets for Roll-to-Roll Technologies for Flexible Devices
The global market for R2R technologies for flexible devices is expected to grow from $40.4 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $69.8 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.5% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029.
Thermal Interface Materials: Technologies, Applications and Global Markets
The global market for thermal interface materials (TIMs) is expected to grow from $4.4 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $7.5 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.5% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029.
2023 Semiconductor Manufacturing Research Review
It is expected to grow steadily, owing to the contribution from emerging semiconductor industry segments like 5G communication, flexible displays, artificial intelligence (AI), connected cars, driverless cars, data centers and storages, Internet of Things (IoT), among others.
Report Highlights
-
The worldwide market for thin film raw materials is estimated at $7.1 billion in 2004 and is projected to reach $13.5 billion by 2009, rising at a healthy AAGR (average annual growth rate) of 13.7%.
-
Chemical processes accounted for more than 70% of the market, driven by sales of plating chemicals. Materials for chemical processes are expected to rise at an AAGR of 12.9% to $9.3 billion by 2009.
-
Raw materials for physical processes were a $2 billion market in 2004 and will expand at an AAGR of 15.7% to $4.2 billion by 2009.
-
Market drivers include technical advancements and versatility, miniaturization, material and equipment availability and increasing penetration in developing countries.
Become A Member
BCC Research offers a comprehensive library of reports, granting members unlimited access to data, insights, and market intelligence for informed business decisions, while actively supporting members in their evolving journeys and prioritizing high-quality, relevant topics based on continuous engagement with the research community.
Find Out MoreCustom Consulting
BCC Research emphasizes the importance of organizations leveraging highly customized market insights aligned with specific strategic business objectives through direct engagement with primary sources and proprietary forecasting models for profitable decision-making in maximizing growth opportunities and minimizing risks.
Customize NowScorecard
The Venture Scorecard provides commercialization offices and decision makers with expert analysis, offering strategic insights crucial for aligning objectives with market realities at various stages of commercializing new products or evaluating investment opportunities, from opportunity assessment to growth planning.
Find Out MoreInnovation Spotlight
Our industry experts offer strategic guidance to maximize the market potential of commercialized products, patents, and IP by providing insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and effective positioning, using the Innovation Spotlight service for enhanced exposure to thought leaders and the wider community.
Find Out More