Activated Carbon Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Analysis Report : By Product (Granular, Powdered, and Other Products), By Application, By Raw Material, By Distribution Channel, By End User, and By Region – Market Forecast, 2026–2034

The activated carbon market size is expected to reach USD 10.80 billion by 2034, according to a new study by Polaris Market Research. The report “Activated Carbon Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Analysis Report: By Product (Granular, Powdered, and Other Products), By Application, By Raw Material, By Distribution Channel, By End User, and By Region – Market Forecast, 2026–2034” gives a detailed insight into current market dynamics and provides analysis on future market growth.

Activated carbon is a highly porous form of carbon. It is used for adsorption and filtration in various applications. These range from industry to environmental and consumer uses. The activated carbon market has seen an accelerated demand due to its effectiveness in removing pollutants from air, water, and chemical effluent streams, as various industries are facing mounting demands from governments and regulatory authorities to adhere strictly to various environmental standards and bylaws. The enhancement of activated carbon applications in carbon footprint management is providing opportunities in the activated carbon market, as it is proven effective in removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mercury, and other pollutants in such industries. Additionally, a rise in demand for sustainable manufacturing practices is further fueling these uses.

In terms of end user, the water treatment segment accounted for the largest revenue share of the activated carbon market in 2025. This is due to its extensive use in both municipal and industrial water purification systems. Based on the distribution channel, the distributor networks segment is expected to grow the fastest in the coming years. Distributor networks are important for connecting manufacturers with smaller or regional buyers.

The increasing emphasis on product development for improved performance and versatility of application further adds to the growth prospects. Companies are working on R&D activities for creating innovative grades of activated carbon with optimized pore size distribution and compatibility with emerging technology applications. Such developments are making it possible for activated carbon to be used in a wide range of applications, including pharmaceutical, energy storage, and food applications. Thus, as end-users emphasize productivity and sustainability, applications of high-performance activated carbon are increasing, thereby enhancing market prospects.

A few global key market players include Boyce Carbon; Cabot Corporation; Carbon Activated Corporation; CarboTech AC GmbH; CarbPure Technologies; Donau Chemie AG; Evoqua Water Technologies LLC; Haycarb PLC; Jacobi Carbons Group; Kuraray Co.; Kureha Corporation; Osaka Gas Chemicals Co., Ltd.; Oxbow Activated Carbon LLC; and Tantech Holdings Ltd.

Where is the Activated Carbon Market Headed?

Advancement in carbon production and rising industrial air pollution control are driving the market expansion. Our geographic analysis reveals that the North America activated carbon market is expected to account for substantial growth. This is due to stringent environmental regulations and growing focus on water quality. Further, strategic investments and material innovations are expected to drive market demand.

What Does Activated Carbon Report Reveal?

What is the market size and CAGR for the market during 2026–2034?

Which factors are driving the expansion of the industry?

Who are the key industry participants? What is their relative position in terms of competitive positioning?

How do different distribution channels, such as distributor networks and retail channel, influence the market landscape?

How does the market differ in terms of product type, application, raw material, and end user? Which is the leading end user?

What are the opportunities in different regional markets, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa?

What are the emerging technologies and innovations in the market?

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Polaris Market Research has segmented the market report on the basis of product type, application, raw material, distribution channel, end user, and region:

By Product Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021–2034)

Granular

Powdered

Other Products

By Application Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021–2034)

Liquid Phase

Gas Phase

By Raw Material Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021–2034)

Coal-Based

Coconut Shell

Hardwood-Based

Softwood-Based

Other Materials

By Distribution Channel Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021–2034)

Direct Wholesale to Manufacturers

Distributor Networks

Retail Channel

By End User Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Billion, 2021–2034)

Water Treatment

Air & Gas Purification

Food & Beverage Processing

Pharmaceutical

Mining & Metallurgy

Automotive & Transportation

Others

By Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021–2034)

North America

US

Canada

Europe

Germany

France

UK

Italy

Spain

Netherlands

Russia

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

Malaysia

South Korea

Indonesia

Australia

Vietnam

Rest of Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Israel

South Africa

Rest of Middle East & Africa

Latin America

Mexico

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of Latin America Show more