The Indian composites materials market was valued at approximately USD 1.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 7.8%, reaching USD 2.8 billion by 2030. This burgeoning sector is driving innovation across industries, shaping India’s economic growth, and supporting its transition to sustainable and advanced technologies.
Composites, made by combining two or more materials with distinct physical and chemical properties, offer superior strength, lightweight characteristics, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. These advantages have made them indispensable in various sectors:
Renewable Energy
The renewable energy sector significantly benefits from composites, especially in wind and solar energy applications. Composites are used to create lightweight, durable wind turbine blades and solar panel structures, which are pivotal in India’s shift to sustainable energy. In 2024, India’s installed wind energy capacity stood at 48 GW, ranking fourth globally, with projections to reach 140 GW by 2030. This growth will further drive the demand for composites, as turbines are approximately 30% composite by weight. Additionally, lightweight high-pressure vessels made of composites are enabling efficient hydrogen storage, aiding the clean energy revolution.
Aerospace and Defence
In aerospace and defence, composites are crucial for manufacturing lighter, fuel-efficient aircraft, drones, and military vehicles. These materials enhance performance, reduce costs, and align with India’s vision of self-reliance in defence production. The HAL Tejas aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), extensively incorporates composites, while ISRO uses them for satellite structures and launch vehicles, improving mission efficiency and strengthening India’s position in global space technology.
Building and Construction
The building and construction industry accounts for the largest use of composites in India, contributing to 30% of total consumption. Applications range from roofing, facades, and light poles to decorative items, portable toilets, doors, and furniture. As India’s economy expands, the demand for composites in construction is expected to grow significantly.
Infrastructure Development
In infrastructure, composites are increasingly used in bridges, pipelines, and other construction projects due to their corrosion resistance and reduced maintenance costs. These attributes make them essential for India’s smart city initiatives.
Automotive and Railways
Composites are driving the development of lighter, fuel-efficient vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs) and high-speed trains, helping reduce carbon emissions. In the automotive sector, composites are used in buses, EVs, and rickshaws, as well as for high-voltage battery casings due to their excellent electrical insulation properties.
In railways, composites enhance durability and reduce weight in components such as luggage racks, toilet cabins, passenger seats, and window blinds. Government programs like the National Rail Plan (NRP) 2030, Make in India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat are accelerating the adoption of innovative materials like composites in modernizing India’s railway systems.
Challenges and Industry Milestones
India currently relies entirely on imports for carbon fibre, a critical component of advanced composites. However, events like the International Conference and Exhibition for Reinforced Plastics (ICERP), organized biennially by the FRP Institute, highlight the sector’s growth and innovation. The 11th edition of ICERP, scheduled for next week in Mumbai, will showcase cutting-edge advancements and underscore India’s growing prominence in the global composites industry.
