The report "Firestopping Materials Market by Type (Sealants, Mortar, Sheets, Putty & Putty Pads, Cast-in Devices), Application (Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing), End-Use (Commercial, Industrial, Residential), and Region - Global Forecast to 2026", published by MarketsAndMarkets, estimates that the firestopping materials market will reach 2.4 billion USD by 2026, at a CAGR of 11.6% from 1.4 billion USD in 2021.

Overview

The firestopping system is a fire protection system for sealing any openings to prevent fire, smoke, and heat from passing through multiple components.

They are generally used in warehouses, office complexes, commercial, and industrial buildings. Firestopping material components are made of fire-resistant and intumescent materials, as well as cement-based, silicone, and mineral fiber-based mortars and rubber compounds.

They are mainly used in electrical, plumbing, mechanical, construction, and building applications. A properly installed and tested firestopping system will prevent fire passage, ensure an effective smoke barrier, and delay heat transmission for a specified period.

These can be classified into eight types - mortars, sealants, cast-in devices, sheets, putty & putty pads, collars, wraps/tapes, and others. Sealants had a larger share in terms of value in 2020 compared to mortars and others.

Some of the prominent key players are:

Hilti Corporation (Liechtenstein)

3M (USA)

Etex Group (Belgium)

Knauf Insulation (USA)

Specified Technologies Inc (USA)

Sika AG (Switzerland)

RectorSeal Corporation (USA)

BASF SE (Germany)

RPM International Inc. (USA)

Opportunities: Development of Innovative Firestopping Systems

To enhance the performance of firestopping materials, global companies are innovating new technologies to improve their protective properties. Due to strict fire protection regulations by the government, the demand for firestopping materials is increasing.

Companies are coming up with innovative solutions that adhere to country codes and standards. Furthermore, they are focusing on solutions that are easy to install, user-friendly, and require low maintenance.

Global companies like 3M and Specified Technologies Inc. are focusing on developing innovative fire protection systems to effectively stop the spread of fire, smoke, and gases.

New Materials

Recently, Specified Technologies Inc launched E-Wrap Systems FP-3 and FP-4, specifically for protecting fuel oil pipes. The system complies with UL 1489 (Standard for Fire Tests of Fire-Resistive Pipe Systems carrying Combustible Liquids). 3M developed ventilation wrap for fire barrier dryer, especially for ventilation ducts passing through wood frame construction.

It has been tested according to ASTM E2816 Condition B. Companies are becoming aware of various standards and developing firestopping solutions that comply with these regulations.

Putty and Putty Pads are estimated to be the fastest-growing type in the firestopping materials market for the forecast period.

Putty is a high plasticity material, similar in texture to clay or dough, typically used to seal gaps during construction. Firestop putty is mainly used for electrical box installations, sealing pipe and cable insulation, construction joints, solid ceilings, and lightweight partition walls to increase fire resistance.

It provides complete protection against smoke and fire spread during a fire accident. It also offers excellent adhesion to construction substrates and penetrants, including plaster, metal, and plastic.

These properties are expected to drive demand for putty and putty pads during the forecast period.

North America Tops

North America is estimated to be the largest region in the firestopping materials market starting from 2020.

The North American market held the largest share globally. It is experiencing significant growth due to increased demand for these materials in new and existing buildings.

The major factors influencing the growth of this market are the growing construction industry, particularly the rise of skyscrapers in emerging economies.

Market growth in this region is primarily driven by stricter building codes and policies. (Photo: Freepik)