Construction, the largest nondisposables market, will post above-average gains, fueled by robust growth in residential construction. In particular, nonwovens used in house wrap will experience double-digit annual growth, a result of a projected acceleration in housing starts through 2013.
Spunmelt will remain the largest product segment, accounting for 57% by value as spunbonded nonwovens are the material of choice in major markets such as baby nappies. Meltblown nonwovens will benefit from greater use in the filtration market.
Advances for carded nonwovens will be reduced by declining demand for chemical and thermal bonded varieties, as these materials have largely been replaced by spunbonded types in major markets like diaper cover stock. However, demand for nonwoven fabrics bonded by the spunlacing process, almost all of which are carded webs, will increase at an above-average rate through 2013, providing some offsetting support.
