It is projected to reach 5,424.9 KT, by 2026, at a CAGR of 6.40% by volume. This growth is fueled by the increasing requirement of plastic pipes in the solar industry, and the low cost, easy installation, and flexibility of cross-linked polyethylene over traditional materials, and the significant growth in the automotive industry.

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE): The largest cross-linked polyethylene market, by agent

The market for high density cross-linked polyethylene is the largest in the global cross-linked polyethylene market followed by low density cross-linked polyethylene. The demand for high density cross-linked polyethylene is mainly driven due to its effective and substantial usage in the production of pipes and tubings in residential and commercial sectors. The high density based cross-linked polyethylene provides high tensile strength due to its intensive cross-linking and is resistant to corrosion, cracks, abrasion, and stress. Low density cross-linked polyethylene is generally used for wires & cables due to the high insulation properties that it imparts.

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) was the largest type of cross-linked polyethylene in 2015, due to the high tensile strength and excellent resistance to abrasive wear. HDPE is cost-effective and its ability to endure variable temperature conditions makes it preferred for use in the manufacture of pipes.

Plumbing: The largest application market for cross-linked polyethylene

Plumbing is currently the largest application of cross-linked polyethylene. Cross-linked polyethylene is largely used in the construction of sewer systems and water transmission systems. Steady growth in construction spending and the numerous water infrastructure projects being undertaken in emerging countries are also expected to drive market growth

Asia-Pacific: The largest market for cross-linked polyethylene

The Asia-Pacific region was the largest market for cross-linked polyethylene, in terms of value and volume, in 2015. Steady growth in the construction spending in emerging countries such as, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand, increased investments in industrial and public infrastructure and the use of HDPE pipes in natural gas distribution are the key factors driving the Asia-Pacific region market.