By Material:
- Ceramics: Ceramics are a popular piezoelectric material due to their high electromechanical coupling coefficient and excellent thermal stability. These materials are extensively used in various applications such as sensors, transducers, actuators, and energy harvesting devices. Sub-Segment: Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT).
Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) is a widely used ceramic material in the piezoelectric industry. It offers high stiffness, exceptional piezoelectric properties, and a wide range of compositions that can be tailored to specific applications. PZT is commonly used in ultrasonic transducers for medical imaging, sonar systems, industrial sensors, and high-performance piezoelectric actuators.
By Application:
- Sensors: Piezoelectric sensors are crucial components in various industries including automotive, medical, aerospace, and consumer electronics. These sensors convert mechanical vibrations or pressures into electrical signals, enabling precise measurements. Sub-Segment: Pressure Sensors.
Pressure sensors, a sub-segment of piezoelectric sensors, are extensively used in applications that require accurate pressure measurements. These sensors find applications in industrial processes, automotive systems, HVAC systems, and aircraft flight controls. They offer numerous advantages such as high sensitivity, wide operating temperature range, and resistance to harsh environments.
By End-Use Industry:
- Automotive: The automotive industry utilizes piezoelectric materials in various applications to enhance safety, comfort, and energy efficiency. These materials are used in tire pressure monitoring systems, fuel injectors, ignition systems, and adaptive suspension systems. Sub-Segment: Energy Harvesting.
Energy harvesting, a sub-segment of piezoelectric applications in the automotive industry, involves converting mechanical energy, such as vibrations or shocks, into electrical energy. Piezoelectric materials integrated into the vehicle's suspension or body can capture wasted mechanical energy and convert it into usable electrical power for charging batteries or powering low-energy electronic components.
The piezoelectric materials market is highly competitive with the presence of several global and regional players. Key market players include:
- APC International Ltd.
- CeramTec GmbH
- Exelis Inc.
- MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
- PiezoKinetics, Inc.
- PIEZO Systems, Inc.
- PI Ceramic GmbH
- ULTRAMETAL, Inc.
- US EuroTek, Inc.
- Morgan Advanced Materials
These players focus on research and development activities, strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to enhance their market presence and expand their product offerings. Growing demand for piezoelectric materials in various industries drives competition among market players to provide innovative solutions and maintain a competitive edge.