U.S. Materials Demand to Grow

U.S. demand for materials used in the production of batteries and fuel cells will rise 3.9% per year to $3.7 billion in 2011 predicts Battery & Fuel Cell Materials by The Freedonia Group Inc.

Gains will be driven by increasing production of high-performance battery products, especially lithium and nickel metal hydride types, due to enormous popularity of high-drain portable electronic devices. Additionally, demand for fuel cell materials will rise nearly fivefold from a small base, as fuel cell products begin to enjoy commercial success. According to the report, gains will be limited by a less favorable outlook for lead-acid-zinc carbon and nickel-cadmium chemistries.