1 Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Insight Analysis
The global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon market is expected to be valued at USD 262.44 million in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 11.66% from 2025 to 2033.
Supercapacitor Activated Carbon is a premium-grade material specifically designed for use in supercapacitors. It is characterized by a high specific surface area, typically exceeding 1500 m²/g, and low impurity levels. This material is essential for enhancing the performance of supercapacitors, which are devices that store energy through electrostatic fields rather than chemical reactions. SAC provides superior energy density, power density, and cycle life, making it ideal for applications ranging from consumer electronics to industrial energy storage systems.
Figure Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2025-2033)
2 Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
The driving factors of the growth of the supercapacitor activated carbon market are mainly reflected in the demand of downstream industries and policy promotion. From the perspective of downstream industries, as electronic devices continue to develop towards miniaturization and portability, the demand for micro supercapacitors has surged. Due to its unique properties, activated carbon has obvious advantages in micro supercapacitor electrode materials. It can be compounded with a variety of materials to improve performance, meet the demand for high-capacity and high-power density capacitors of electronic products, and effectively promote market growth.
In the fields of new energy vehicles, renewable energy power generation, etc., supercapacitors are important energy storage components, and the demand is also growing rapidly. Activated carbon has low cost, good conductivity, and mature manufacturing technology, making it the first choice for supercapacitor electrode materials, which in turn drives the development of the activated carbon market. From the perspective of policy promotion, countries are paying more and more attention to renewable energy, and have introduced policies to encourage its development.
Supercapacitors play an important role in the storage and conversion of renewable energy, and can effectively solve the intermittent problems of wind and solar power generation. In the electric vehicle industry, supercapacitors can assist battery systems and improve vehicle performance. The development of these application areas has further expanded the demand for supercapacitor activated carbon under policy promotion.
However, the growth of this market also faces many limiting factors. From the perspective of substitution threats, other high-performance carbon materials are developing rapidly and pose a competition to activated carbon. Materials such as onion-like carbon, carbon nanotubes, and graphene have large theoretical specific surface areas and excellent performance in specific application scenarios. Although activated carbon currently occupies a dominant position due to its cost advantage, its market share may be impacted as the preparation technology of other materials advances and the cost decreases.
Supercapacitors also have their own defects, such as low energy density, and the energy stored per unit weight is much lower than that of lithium-ion batteries; the self-discharge rate is high and is not suitable for long-term energy storage; the operating voltage is low and needs to be used in series, which increases the complexity and cost of the circuit. These shortcomings limit the scope of application of supercapacitors, which in turn affects the market demand for activated carbon.
Activated carbon also has problems in terms of cycle performance. There is a gap between laboratory research and actual application, and it is difficult to fully meet the long cycle life requirements of commercial supercapacitors. When improving the specific capacitance of activated carbon, it is often necessary to compound with other materials, but this may sacrifice its power density and cycle stability, limit the further improvement of activated carbon performance, and have an adverse impact on market growth.
3 Technological Innovations in the Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market
In the supercapacitor activated carbon market, technological innovation is one of the core driving forces for the development of the industry. On the one hand, technological innovations aimed at improving the performance of activated carbon itself continue to emerge. Researchers are committed to developing new activated carbon preparation technologies to increase its specific surface area and optimize its pore structure, thereby improving the performance of supercapacitors. For example, the use of biomass to prepare activated carbon has become a new trend.
This method is not only environmentally friendly, but also reduces costs. The resulting activated carbon has a unique microstructure and rich doping, which can effectively improve the electrochemical performance. On the other hand, there are also many innovations in the composite technology of activated carbon and other materials. The composite of activated carbon with materials such as graphene and carbon nanotubes can significantly improve the conductivity and mechanical properties of electrode materials, meet the special needs of supercapacitors in different application scenarios, and broaden the application scope of activated carbon in the field of supercapacitors.
4 Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Size by Type
Under 1500 m²/g: This type of Supercapacitor Activated Carbon (SAC) is characterized by its lower specific surface area, making it suitable for general-purpose applications where cost-effectiveness is a priority. With a projected market revenue of 48.04 million USD in 2025, it holds a market share of 18.31%. Its stability in the market is attributed to its widespread use in standard Electric Double-layer Capacitors (EDLCs), though its growth may be relatively limited compared to higher-performance types.
1500-1900 m²/g: This segment of SAC offers a balanced combination of surface area and cost, making it versatile for a variety of applications. Projected to generate 77.50 million USD in revenue in 2025, it holds a market share of 29.53%. Its moderate performance characteristics make it ideal for mid-range supercapacitors used in consumer electronics and industrial equipment, driving a slight increase in market share as demand for energy-efficient devices grows.
2000-2200 m²/g: Representing a high-performance category, this type of SAC is projected to bring in 81.19 million USD in revenue in 2025, accounting for 30.94% of the market. Its high specific surface area enables superior energy storage capabilities, making it particularly suitable for applications requiring rapid charge and discharge cycles, such as hybrid vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. This segment is expected to see a notable increase in market share due to the growing demand for high-capacity energy storage solutions.
Above 2200 m²/g: This segment is at the forefront of SAC technology, with a projected revenue of 55.70 million USD in 2025 and a market share of 21.23%. Its ultra-high specific surface area makes it ideal for specialized applications in advanced research, aerospace, and defense. Although its high cost and specialized nature limit its overall market size, its importance in high-end markets ensures steady growth as technological advancements drive the need for ultra-high-performance materials.
Table Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Size and Share by Type in 2025
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2025 | Market Share 2025 |
|---|---|---|
Under 1500 m2/g | 48.04 | 18.31% |
1500-1900 m2/g | 77.50 | 29.53% |
2000-2200 m2/g | 81.19 | 30.94% |
Above 2200 m2/g | 55.70 | 21.23% |
5 Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Size by Application
In 2025, the electric double – layer capacitors (EDLCs) application segment dominates the global supercapacitor activated carbon market. As depicted in the table, the market size for EDLCs in terms of revenue reaches 255.88 million US dollars. This substantial figure accounts for a remarkable 97.50% of the total market share. EDLCs are widely used in numerous fields due to their fast charging and discharging capabilities, long cycle life, and high power density. They are commonly found in consumer electronics, such as smartphones and laptops, where quick energy replenishment is essential. Additionally, in industrial applications like renewable energy systems and electric vehicles, EDLCs can provide rapid power support and help in load leveling.
On the other hand, the lithium – ion capacitors (LICs) application segment has a much smaller footprint in the supercapacitor activated carbon market in 2025. The market size for LICs is only 6.55 million US dollars, which corresponds to a market share of 2.50%. LICs combine the characteristics of lithium – ion batteries and supercapacitors, offering higher energy density compared to traditional EDLCs but with relatively lower power density. Although they have the potential to be applied in areas where a balance between energy and power density is required, such as in some portable power tools and certain types of backup power systems, their market penetration has been limited so far.
Table Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Size and Share by Application in 2025
Application | Market Size (M USD) 2025 | Market Share 2025 |
|---|---|---|
Electric Double-layer Capacitors (EDLCs) | 255.88 | 97.50% |
Lithium-ion Capacitors (LICs) | 6.55 | 2.50% |
6 Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Size by Region
In 2025, North America is projected to have a supercapacitor activated carbon market revenue of 46.29 million US dollars. This region has a well – established technological infrastructure and a strong presence of industries that rely on advanced energy storage solutions. The growth in North America can be attributed to the continuous investment in research and development, as well as the increasing adoption of supercapacitors in applications such as electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. Major companies in the region are actively involved in product innovation and market expansion, driving the demand for activated carbon in supercapacitors.
Europe is forecasted to achieve a market revenue of 49.76 million US dollars in 2025. Europe has been at the forefront of environmental initiatives, which has spurred the growth of the supercapacitor activated carbon market. The region’s focus on sustainable energy solutions, including the development of smart grids and the promotion of electric mobility, has led to a rising demand for supercapacitors. Additionally, European research institutions and industries are collaborating closely to enhance the performance and efficiency of supercapacitors, thereby contributing to the market’s growth.
The Asia Pacific region stands out as a dominant force in the global supercapacitor activated carbon market in 2025, with a projected revenue of 160.96 million US dollars. This region benefits from a large manufacturing base, rapid industrialization, and a high demand for consumer electronics and electric vehicles. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea are leading the charge in terms of production and consumption of supercapacitor – related products. The growing investment in renewable energy projects, especially in solar and wind power, has also significantly boosted the demand for supercapacitors in the Asia Pacific region, as they are crucial for energy storage and grid stabilization.
South America is expected to have a relatively smaller market revenue of 2.49 million US dollars in 2025. While the region has potential in sectors such as mining and renewable energy, the development of the supercapacitor activated carbon market has been slower compared to other regions. Limited infrastructure and investment in advanced energy storage technologies are some of the factors contributing to its smaller market size. However, with increasing awareness of the importance of energy storage and potential government incentives in the future, there is room for growth.
The Middle East & Africa region is projected to have a market revenue of 2.94 million US dollars in 2025. This region has been gradually exploring the use of supercapacitors in various applications, mainly driven by the need to diversify its energy sources and improve energy efficiency. Although the market is currently small, the presence of large – scale renewable energy projects in some countries in the region could potentially lead to an increase in the demand for supercapacitor activated carbon in the coming years.
Figure Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2025
7 Global Supercapacitor Activated Carbon Market Analysis by Major Players
Kuraray
Company Profile:
Kuraray, a Japanese company founded in 1926, is a global leader in the production of Supercapacitor Activated Carbon (SAC). With its headquarters in Tokyo, Kuraray has a strong presence in Europe, North America, and Asia. The company is renowned for its advanced manufacturing technologies and high-quality products. Kuraray’s SAC products are widely used in various applications, including electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) and lithium-ion capacitors (LICs).
Business Overview:
Kuraray’s business spans multiple industries, including fibers, resins, and chemicals. The company’s SAC products are characterized by their high specific surface area and low impurity levels, making them ideal for high-performance energy storage applications. Kuraray’s commitment to innovation and quality has solidified its position as a market leader, with a revenue market share of 54.74% in 2022.
Product Offered:
Kuraray offers a range of SAC products tailored for supercapacitor applications. These products include fine powder activated carbon and electric double-layer capacitor electrode materials (YP), which are known for their high performance, reliability, and stable quality. Kuraray’s SAC products are designed to meet the stringent requirements of modern energy storage systems, ensuring efficient and long-lasting performance.
Haycarb
Company Profile:
Haycarb, established in 1973, is a leading supplier of high-performance coconut shell activated carbon. With production facilities in Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Indonesia, Haycarb has a global sales network that reaches customers worldwide. The company is known for its extensive research and development capabilities, which have led to the creation of innovative SAC products.
Business Overview:
Haycarb’s business focuses on the production of activated carbon for various applications, including supercapacitors, water purification, and air filtration. The company’s SAC products are characterized by their high specific surface area and low internal resistance, making them suitable for high-efficiency energy storage solutions. Haycarb’s strong R&D capabilities and commitment to quality have earned it a market share of 9.32% in 2022.
Product Offered:
Haycarb’s SAC products include the Haycarb Activated Carbon Energy series, which is specifically designed for supercapacitor applications. These products feature a highly controlled pore structure and particle size distribution, ensuring high capacitance and long cycle life. Haycarb’s SAC products are also known for their environmental friendliness and superior performance, making them a preferred choice for many supercapacitor manufacturers.
Beihai Sence Carbon Material
Company Profile:
Beihai Sence Carbon Material, founded in 2014, is a leading Chinese manufacturer of high-performance activated carbon products. The company is headquartered in Beihai, Guangxi, and has quickly established itself as a major player in the SAC market. Beihai Sence Carbon Material is known for its advanced production technologies and strong R&D capabilities.
Business Overview:
Beihai Sence Carbon Material’s business is centered around the research and production of activated carbon materials, particularly those used in supercapacitors. The company’s products are characterized by their high purity, high specific surface area, and excellent electrochemical performance. Beihai Sence Carbon Material has built a strong brand reputation and has achieved a market share of 5.93% in 2022, driven by its innovative products and robust business model.
Product Offered:
Beihai Sence Carbon Material offers a range of SAC products, including SE-Ⅰ and SE-Ⅱ series, which are designed for different supercapacitor applications. These products feature high specific capacitance, low resistivity, and excellent cycle stability. Beihai Sence Carbon Material’s SAC products are widely used in EDLCs and LICs, providing reliable and efficient energy storage solutions for various industries.