Demand for industrial rubber products in the US will rise from $15.2bn (£8.1bn) last year to $17.5bn in 2010, according to new research.
The market will increase by 2.9% annually over the next four years as the economy recovers from a slump in 2001, the Freedonia Group’s report says.
An improved outlook for the automotive sector will boost demand for mechanical rubber products including bushings, boots, body seals and wiper blades. In 2005, such products made up half the market for industrial rubber goods.
More expensive components are also being used by industry due to changes in equipment design, including the use of higher operating temperatures in engines. Rubber roofing membranes are expected to see the fastest increases over the next four years, supported by strong growth in non-residential refurbishments.
Demand for rubber goods will also be bolstered by the aerospace market, where there is an increasing number of planes in service.
