Recovered Carbon Black Market
By Type;
Primary Carbon Black and Inorganic AshBy Application;
Plastics, Tire, Ink, Coatings, Non-Tire Rubber and OthersBy End-Use Industry;
Transportation, Building & Construction, Printing, Packaging and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Recovered Carbon Black Market Overview
Recovered Carbon Black Market (USD Million)
Recovered Carbon Black Market was valued at USD 441.03 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 6,699.08 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 47.5%.
Recovered Carbon Black Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 47.5 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 47.5 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 441.03 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 6,699.08 Million |
| Market Concentration | Low |
| Report Pages | 372 |
Major Players
- Pyrolyx
- Black Bear Carbon
- Scandinavian Enviro Systems AB (Enviro)
- Bolder Industries
- Alpha Carbone
- Bolder Industries
- Pyrum Innovations AG
- Continental AG and Pyrum Innovations AG
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Recovered Carbon Black Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Recovered Carbon Black (rCB) Market is experiencing strong growth as industries emphasize circular economy solutions and sustainable materials. Approximately 55% of rubber producers have incorporated rCB into their processes, underscoring its role in reducing reliance on virgin carbon black and minimizing environmental impact.
Environmental Benefits Driving Adoption
Sustainability goals are accelerating rCB adoption, with nearly 48% of industries prioritizing eco-friendly inputs. By recycling carbon from discarded tires, companies are reducing emissions and promoting green manufacturing practices, making rCB a key enabler of cleaner production systems.
Cost Efficiency Supporting Growth
The market is also expanding due to rCB’s cost-saving advantage and economic advantages, as manufacturers report up to 35% cost savings compared to traditional carbon black. Rising raw material costs have further strengthened its position as a strategic substitute, offering dual benefits of financial efficiency and ecological responsibility.
Technological Innovations Enhancing Quality
Innovation is improving rCB performance, with about 40% of technological innovations targeting better particle consistency, high purity, and improved performance. These advancements are broadening rCB’s applications, ensuring compatibility with high-demand industries such as automotive applications and the construction industry.
Future Market Outlook
The Recovered Carbon Black Market is set for significant expansion, supported by growing industrial investment. Nearly 50% of leading manufacturers are increasing integration of rCB in their supply chains, reflecting its pivotal role in sustainable resource management and future-ready industrial practices.
Recovered Carbon Black Market Key Takeaways
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Recovered Carbon Black (rCB) is gaining traction as a sustainable alternative to virgin carbon black, derived from end-of-life tires through pyrolysis, aligning with circular economy principles and reducing environmental impact.
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North America leads the market, accounting for 39.5% of the global share in 2024, driven by stringent environmental regulations and robust demand from the automotive sector.
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Europe follows closely, with a 51% share in 2024, supported by mature recycling ecosystems and strong automotive and manufacturing sectors.
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Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the highest growth rate, propelled by rapid industrialization, expanding automotive production, and increasing environmental regulations promoting sustainable material use.
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Pyrolysis technology dominates rCB production, holding a 90% revenue share in 2024, and is projected to expand at a 22% CAGR during 2025–2030.
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Tires remain the largest application segment, accounting for 71% of the market in 2024, with a projected 20.83% CAGR through 2030.
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Specialty grades of rCB, such as conductive types, are experiencing rapid adoption, expected to grow at a 22.5% CAGR, driven by demand in high-performance applications like inks and coatings.
Recovered Carbon Black Market Recent Developments
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In May 2022, Pyrum Innovations AG began testing a new pelletizer to enhance transportability of recovered carbon black from the pyrolysis process and expedite further processing.
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In April 2022, Continental AG and Pyrum Innovations AG expanded their collaboration to improve pyrolysis recycling of used tyres and produce high-quality recovered carbon black (rCB) for tyre manufacturing.
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In April 2022, Bolder Industries received ISCC PLUS accreditation for circular carbon black and pyrolysis oil, enabling supply of authorized circular products to the market.
Recovered Carbon Black Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Recovered Carbon Black Market has been segmented by Type, Application, End-Use Industry, and Geography.
Recovered Carbon Black Market, Segmentation by Type
The Type segmentation reflects material purity, reinforcement potential, and processing economics that influence downstream performance. Key drivers include circularity targets, tire recycling scale-up, and cost competitiveness versus virgin grades, while challenges involve ash control, surface activity tuning, and consistent particle morphology. Strategic partnerships between pyrolysis operators, refiners, and compounders are expanding qualification pipelines and improving supply assurance across transportation and industrial applications.
Primary Carbon Black
Primary Carbon Black in this context denotes higher-purity recovered fractions with favorable structure and surface area for reinforcement. Buyers value predictable dispersion, stable tint strength, and tighter specs that reduce formulation rework. To overcome challenges like batch variability and odour residues, suppliers invest in post-treatment, pelletization quality, and analytics that map feedstock characteristics to end-use performance.
Inorganic Ash
Inorganic Ash indicates the mineral content co-produced during recovery, which can influence hardness, abrasion, and color. Market strategies focus on ash minimization, beneficiation, and controlled use in applications tolerant to fillers. Addressing challenges around processing wear and surface reactivity, producers optimize reactor conditions and separation steps, aligning grade families to specific compound windows and sustainability claims.
Recovered Carbon Black Market, Segmentation by Application
The Application view highlights performance and aesthetic requirements across polymer and elastomer systems. Adoption is propelled by drivers such as recycled content targets, volatile feedstock costs, and durability needs, balanced by challenges including dispersion sensitivity, colour uniformity, and regulatory documentation. Suppliers differentiate via surface chemistry control, pellet integrity, and technical service that accelerates reformulation and quality assurance.
Plastics
Plastics incorporate recovered carbon black (rCB) for pigmentation, UV stabilization, and conductivity in films, pipes, and molded parts. Converters value opacity, processability, and stable rheology under extrusion and injection conditions. To address challenges like gel formation and shade drift, vendors deliver narrow-cut grades, filtration guidance, and masterbatch options that improve dispersion and line efficiency.
Tire
Tire applications leverage rCB in inner liners, sidewalls, or non-critical compounds where reinforcement and cost balance matter. OEM and retread programs are motivated by drivers such as circular economy goals and localized recycling ecosystems. Suppliers mitigate challenges around compound variability by offering consistent pellets, detailed certificates of analysis, and co-development to meet dynamic mechanical targets.
Ink
Ink uses rCB for black coloration in printing and packaging systems requiring stable jetness and viscosity windows. Formulators prioritize dispersion speed, low grit, and reliable undertone across substrates. Addressing challenges related to fines and filterability, producers refine milling curves and particle size distributions, enabling predictable press performance and reduced downtime.
Coatings
Coatings demand color depth, UV screening, and abrasion resistance for protective and decorative layers. Market traction grows where rCB’s sustainability profile aligns with customer branding and compliance. To overcome challenges like gloss control and surface defects, suppliers tailor surface chemistry and offer let-down vehicles that harmonize with common resin systems.
Non-Tire Rubber
Non-Tire Rubber includes hoses, seals, mats, and vibration parts where reinforcement, fatigue resistance, and cost are critical. Buyers value stable curing behavior and compression set performance across varying temperatures. Vendors address challenges in filler–polymer interaction through optimized structure, controlled moisture, and formulation playbooks that shorten qualification cycles.
Others
Others comprise niche uses such as conductive compounds, batteries, and civil engineering where rCB imparts function at attractive economics. Growth depends on application engineering, safety data, and reliable pellet handling. To manage challenges around specification diversity, suppliers segment portfolios by conductivity, surface area, and ash levels, aligning grades to clearly defined performance envelopes.
Recovered Carbon Black Market, Segmentation by End-Use Industry
The End-Use Industry segmentation maps rCB attributes to sector-specific standards, processing speeds, and sustainability KPIs. Core drivers include recycled content mandates, total cost of ownership, and supply chain resilience, while challenges span regulatory approvals, aesthetic requirements, and long-term durability. Ecosystem collaboration across recyclers, compounders, and brand owners supports scale, qualification, and traceability.
Transportation
Transportation relies on consistent reinforcement and fatigue resistance for tires, rubber goods, and components exposed to dynamic loads. Procurement emphasizes quality documentation and stable pellet properties for high-throughput mixing. Addressing challenges like wear targets and heat build-up, suppliers tune structure and surface activity while aligning testing protocols with industry norms.
Building & Construction
Building & Construction uses rCB in membranes, pipes, profiles, and coatings where UV protection, colour stability, and longevity are critical. Project drivers include lifecycle assessments and cost predictability, countered by challenges such as gloss control and stringent weathering benchmarks. Vendor guidance on dispersion and loading levels helps maintain mechanical integrity and surface quality.
Printing
Printing applications require fast dispersion, stable viscosity, and clean filtration to support high-speed presses. Buyers prioritize jetness and tone consistency across paper and film substrates. To overcome challenges like nozzle clogging or screen fouling, suppliers deliver tightly controlled particle size, low grit content, and support for press-specific rheology.
Packaging
Packaging benefits from opacity, UV shielding, and brandable sustainability attributes when incorporating rCB masterbatches. Converters seek predictable melt flow, consistent shade, and food-contact aligned documentation where applicable. Addressing challenges around odor and contamination risk, producers enhance purification steps, traceability, and QC protocols that meet converter audits.
Others
Others span industrial goods and specialty polymers where conductivity, antistatic properties, or cost-down measures are prioritized. Market momentum is driven by application fit and reliable supply, while challenges include heterogeneous specs and small-lot customization. Suppliers respond with modular grade families, technical data packages, and pilot support that derisk adoption.
Recovered Carbon Black Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Recovered Carbon Black Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America features mature tire collection programs, evolving Extended Producer Responsibility frameworks, and advanced pyrolysis projects. Regional drivers include recycled content commitments and supply-chain localization, while challenges span permitting timelines and inter-state specification differences. Partnerships between recyclers, compounders, and OEMs are accelerating qualification for tires, plastics, and construction products.
Europe
Europe benefits from strong regulatory signals on circularity and end-of-waste criteria that support rCB integration. Market drivers include stringent sustainability disclosures and robust logistics for end-of-life tires, countered by challenges such as tight quality thresholds and complex multi-country compliance. Collaborative pilots with brand owners and tire makers are expanding certified use cases and cross-border supply.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific combines large tire manufacturing bases with growing recycling capacity and resin conversion. Key drivers include cost optimization, rising environmental standards, and proximity to demand centers, while challenges involve feedstock variability and technology scale-up. Localized processing hubs and technical centers support faster reformulation cycles and stable quality for export and domestic markets.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa shows selective adoption aligned to infrastructure growth, industrial rubber, and coatings where durability and UV performance are vital. Procurement drivers include circular economy initiatives and waste-to-value programs, balanced by challenges such as logistics spans and skills availability. Emerging partnerships with integrators and public entities are building capabilities for consistent grade supply.
Latin America
Latin America is advancing tire collection and local compounding, enabling rCB use in packaging, footwear compounds, and non-tire rubber. Important drivers are cost stability and sustainability differentiation for brands, while challenges include regulatory heterogeneity and currency volatility. Strengthening distributor networks and quality labs improves predictability, documentation, and service for converters across the region.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Recovered Carbon Black Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
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Cost-effectiveness
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Growing automotive production
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Increasing tire manufacturing
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Rising demand for eco-friendly products -The global market for recovered carbon black (rCB) is experiencing significant growth, driven largely by increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Recovered carbon black, derived from the recycling of end-of-life tires, offers a sustainable alternative to virgin carbon black traditionally sourced from fossil fuels. This sustainability factor is particularly appealing to industries seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and meet stringent regulatory standards.
The rising adoption of recovered carbon black can be attributed to its comparable performance to virgin carbon black in various applications, including automotive tires, plastics, and coatings. Manufacturers are increasingly integrating rCB into their production processes as a means to achieve both cost savings and environmental sustainability goals. This shift is not only driven by regulatory pressures but also by consumer preferences for products that align with their values of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The expanding infrastructure for tire recycling and advancements in technology have bolstered the availability and quality of recovered carbon black, making it a viable and attractive option for industries globally. Market participants are investing in research and development to further enhance the properties and applications of rCB, thereby widening its scope in existing and emerging markets.
The emphasis on sustainability continues to grow across industries, the global recovered carbon black market is poised for continued expansion. Companies that embrace this trend early stand to gain a competitive edge by offering products that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and meet evolving regulatory requirements. The convergence of economic viability and environmental stewardship positions recovered carbon black as a cornerstone of sustainable manufacturing practices in the years to come.
Restraints:
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Quality variations in recovered carbon black
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Limited awareness and acceptance
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Competition from traditional carbon black
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Uncertainty in feedstock availability -The global recovered carbon black (rCB) market is experiencing significant growth driven by increasing environmental awareness and the push towards sustainable practices in industries traditionally reliant on carbon black. Recovered carbon black, derived from recycled tires or other rubber products, offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional carbon black produced from fossil fuels. This shift is particularly crucial amid concerns over greenhouse gas emissions and the finite nature of fossil resources.
One of the major challenges faced by the recovered carbon black market is the uncertainty in feedstock availability. The quality and quantity of recycled tires and rubber products suitable for producing rCB can vary significantly, impacting the reliability and scalability of production. This uncertainty poses a barrier to widespread adoption and investment in the recovered carbon black sector, as stakeholders navigate the complexities of sourcing consistent and high-quality feedstock.
Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to improve feedstock collection and processing technologies, aiming to enhance the efficiency and reliability of rCB production. Innovations in tire recycling technologies and partnerships across the supply chain are critical in addressing feedstock availability issues and driving the sustainable growth of the recovered carbon black market.
In conclusion, while the recovered carbon black market holds promise as a sustainable alternative to traditional carbon black, the industry must overcome feedstock uncertainties through continued innovation and collaboration across sectors. Addressing these challenges effectively will be key to unlocking the full potential of recovered carbon black in contributing to a more sustainable future.
Opportunities:
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Expansion in emerging markets
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Collaborations and partnerships
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Innovation in product formulations
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Consumer shift towards sustainable practices -The global market for recovered carbon black (rCB) is experiencing notable growth as consumers increasingly prioritize sustainable practices. This shift is driven by rising awareness of environmental impact across industries traditionally reliant on carbon black, a petroleum-derived product extensively used in rubber, plastics, and coatings. Recovered carbon black offers a sustainable alternative by utilizing post-consumer rubber waste, such as from tires, and applying processes that reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional carbon black production.
One of the primary factors boosting the adoption of recovered carbon black is its ability to maintain performance standards comparable to virgin carbon black, while also contributing to circular economy initiatives. This resonates strongly with industries seeking to enhance their sustainability profiles and comply with stringent environmental regulations. Manufacturers are increasingly integrating rCB into their product lines, driven not only by regulatory pressures but also by consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
The economic advantages of recovered carbon black, such as cost savings and reduced dependence on fossil fuels, further incentivize its uptake. Companies across the supply chain are investing in research and development to optimize production processes and expand the application areas of rCB. This innovation is crucial in addressing challenges related to consistency and quality, ensuring that recovered carbon black can meet the diverse needs of various end-user industries.
The global recovered carbon black market is poised for continued expansion, driven by ongoing sustainability trends and technological advancements. As businesses and consumers alike prioritize environmental stewardship, the demand for sustainable alternatives like rCB is expected to grow, transforming industries towards a more circular and environmentally responsible future.
Recovered Carbon Black Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Recovered Carbon Black (rCB) Market is gaining momentum as industries emphasize sustainability and cost efficiency in tire, automotive, and plastic applications. Companies are adopting strategies such as collaboration, merger, and partnerships to expand recycling capabilities. Over 60% of producers prioritize eco-friendly solutions, while nearly 45% focus on reinforcing performance and durability for long-term growth.
Market Structure and Concentration
The rCB market exhibits moderate concentration, with leading players holding above 50% of the share, while emerging firms contribute around 35% with specialized recycling technologies. Innovation in pyrolysis and refining methods shapes competitiveness. Strong expansion into tire recycling and plastics industries, coupled with evolving strategies, is redefining market balance across both established and new entrants.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Manufacturers are strengthening brand visibility by deploying multi-tier channel strategies. More than 65% of companies rely on direct supply agreements with tire and rubber manufacturers, while others focus on distributor partnerships to extend reach. Emphasis on consistent branding, sustainability commitments, and quality assurance continues to support growth and credibility in competitive markets.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Over 70% of participants invest in technological advancements such as advanced pyrolysis, surface treatment, and improved purification techniques. Continuous innovation enhances material performance, creating alternatives to virgin carbon black. Strong collaboration with tire manufacturers and research institutions drives adoption, fueling growth and reinforcing competitive positions across global manufacturing sectors.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Europe accounts for over 40% of demand due to strict sustainability regulations, while Asia-Pacific holds above 35% owing to rising industrial activity. Companies are pursuing expansion through localized plants, recycling networks, and regional partnerships. These strategies ensure steady growth while aligning with circular economy initiatives and regional regulatory frameworks.
Future Outlook
The Recovered Carbon Black Market is positioned for strong growth, with more than 65% of producers expecting higher adoption in tires, plastics, and coatings. Continued innovation, sustainability-driven collaboration, and cross-industry partnerships will shape competition. Emphasis on closed-loop recycling, performance optimization, and regional expansion will define the market’s long-term trajectory.
Key players in Recovered Carbon Black Market include.
- Pyrolyx
- Black Bear Carbon
- Scandinavian Enviro Systems AB (Enviro)
- Bolder Industries
- Alpha Carbone
- Bolder Industries
- Pyrum Innovations AG
- Continental AG and Pyrum Innovations AG
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By End-Use Industry
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Recovered Carbon Black Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Cost-effectiveness
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Growing automotive production
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Increasing tire manufacturing
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Rising demand for eco-friendly products
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- Restraints
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Quality variations in recovered carbon black
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Limited awareness and acceptance
-
Competition from traditional carbon black
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Uncertainty in feedstock availability
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- Opportunities
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Expansion in emerging markets
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Collaborations and partnerships
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Innovation in product formulations
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Consumer shift towards sustainable practices
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Recovered Carbon Black Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Primary Carbon Black
- Inorganic Ash
- Recovered Carbon Black Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Plastics
- Tire
- Ink
- Coatings
- Non-Tire Rubber
- Others
- Recovered Carbon Black Market, By End-Use Industry, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Transportation
- Building & Construction
- Printing
- Packaging
- Others
- Recovered Carbon Black Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Recovered Carbon Black Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Pyrolyx
- Black Bear Carbon
- Scandinavian Enviro Systems AB (Enviro)
- Bolder Industries
- Alpha Carbone
- Bolder Industries
- Pyrum Innovations AG
- Continental AG and Pyrum Innovations AG
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

