Himadri to build India's first carbon nanotube facility

Himadri Specialty Chemicals Ltd. has announced plans to establish India's first carbon nanotube (CNT) production facility at its integrated manufacturing complex in West Bengal. Expected to commence commercial production by the fourth quarter of FY2027, the facility will have an initial capacity of 200 tons per annum and require an investment of approximately Rs 70 crore. This development aims to enhance India's capabilities in producing high-performance CNTs, a critical component in lithium-ion batteries, electric vehicles, aerospace, semiconductors, and electronics.

Carbon nanotubes are renowned for their exceptional electrical conductivity, lightweight structure, and mechanical strength, making them indispensable in advanced industrial applications. Himadri's initiative seeks to reduce India's reliance on imported CNTs and meet the growing demand for advanced battery materials and next-generation technologies. The company anticipates that this investment will bolster India's position in the global market for specialized materials and chemicals.

In addition to the CNT project, Himadri plans to expand its super specialty carbon black (SSCB) business by upgrading existing manufacturing capacity. With an investment exceeding Rs 170 crore, this expansion is set to conclude by Q4 FY2028. SSCB products are utilized in lithium-ion batteries, engineered plastics, conductive polymers, fibers, and coatings. These investments reflect Himadri's strategy to support industries focused on electrification, clean energy, and sustainable manufacturing, while advancing towards high-value specialty chemicals.

The chemical industry is increasingly focusing on advanced materials that support electric mobility, clean energy, and high-performance applications. Carbon nanotubes, with their superior electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and thermal stability, are becoming essential for lithium-ion batteries, conductive polymers, and aerospace applications. Manufacturers are investing in research, innovation, and domestic production to meet the demand for lighter, stronger, and more sustainable materials.

Himadri's decision to establish the first commercial CNT manufacturing facility in India aligns with this industry trend. The investment is expected to strengthen India's specialized chemicals ecosystem by reducing dependence on imported nanomaterials and enhancing the availability of advanced carbon products for domestic manufacturers. Local production is anticipated to foster the development of high-value chemical products, improve supply chain resilience, and facilitate technology transfer.

Research indicates that innovation driven by research is gaining importance in the global chemical sector. The demand for advanced battery materials, semiconductors, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies is prompting manufacturers to increase investments in high-performance specialty chemicals. Initiatives like Himadri's CNT facility are expected to advance the commercialization of nanomaterials, enhance India's standing in the international specialty chemicals market, and create new opportunities for exports and sustainable industrial growth.

The global carbon nanotubes market is projected to grow from USD 4.85 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 15.81 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 14.04% from 2025 to 2035. This growth is driven by the need for superior conductivity materials in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, electronics, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing. Manufacturers are expanding CNT production capacity to meet the increasing global demand for high-performance products.

Himadri's investment in the CNT facility is expected to enhance India's CNT value chain, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure a steady supply of advanced materials. The availability of locally produced CNTs is anticipated to strengthen supply chain security for battery, electronics, and specialty chemical manufacturers. This initiative supports India's goal of becoming a global hub for clean technology and advanced materials production.

According to research, the commercialization of CNTs is expected to drive innovation across various industries by enabling the development of more efficient batteries, lightweight composites, conductive polymers, and high-performance electronic components. Himadri's entry into CNT production is likely to stimulate further investments in nanotechnology, R&D, and advanced materials production, thereby strengthening the global CNT industry and expanding its commercial applications.

The global battery materials market is forecasted to grow from USD 66.55 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 109.31 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 5.68% from 2026 to 2035. The demand for consumer electronics, renewable energy storage systems, and electric vehicles is driving this growth. Battery manufacturers are investing in advanced conductivity materials to improve battery efficiency, energy density, charging speed, and longevity.

Himadri's decision to establish India's first commercial CNT production facility is expected to bolster the country's battery materials ecosystem by ensuring a steady supply of high-performance conductive materials. Local CNT production is anticipated to enhance supply chain resilience, reduce import dependency, and support battery manufacturers in developing next-generation energy storage technologies. This project aligns with India's clean energy and electric mobility plans, which aim to boost domestic battery manufacturing.

Himadri Specialty Chemicals Ltd., a leading producer of specialty chemicals in India, focuses on carbon materials, coal tar derivatives, specialty carbon black, advanced battery materials, and clean energy solutions. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Kolkata, the company serves a diverse range of industries, including tires, aluminum, graphite, electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, plastics, coatings, and specialty chemicals. Himadri emphasizes research and development to create high-value products for both domestic and international markets.

To enhance its position in the global specialty chemicals market, Himadri continuously invests in advanced technology and sustainable production methods. The company is expanding its market share in next-generation materials, particularly those used in advanced industrial applications, electric transportation, and energy storage. Himadri's latest investment in India's first commercial CNT manufacturing facility and the expansion of its SSCB business demonstrate its long-term strategy of developing high-performance materials that support emerging technologies and reduce import reliance.