3D Printing Filament Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Material Type (Plastics, Metals, Ceramics, Composites), By Plastic Type (Polylactic Acid (PLA), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG), Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA), Others), By Diameter (Standard Diameter (1.75mm), Large Diameter (2.85mm - 3mm)), By Applications (Aerospace and Defense, Automotive, Medical and Dental, Electronics, Other Applications) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2025-2033

3D Printing Filament Market Size

The global 3D printing filament market size was valued at USD 1,605.75 million in 2024. It is projected to reach from USD 1,984.07 million to USD 13,782.06 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 27.41% during the forecast period (2025-2033).

3D printing filament is a thermoplastic feedstock material used in fused deposition modeling (FDM), one of the most common 3D printing technologies. These filaments are melted and extruded layer by layer to create three-dimensional objects.

Available in various materials, such as PLA (Polylactic Acid), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), and PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol), each filament type offers distinct properties like flexibility, strength, and temperature resistance. The choice of filament depends on the application, with specific materials favored for prototypes, functional parts, and specialized industries like healthcare, automotive, and aerospace.

The increasing adoption of 3D printing across the manufacturing, healthcare, and automotive sectors, along with advancements in filament material properties, is significantly driving market growth. Prototyping and the production of functional parts now require lightweight, eco-friendly, and durable materials such as PLA (Polylactic Acid) and PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol), further boosting demand. The COVID-19 pandemic notably accelerated the use of 3D printing in healthcare, creating new revenue streams for industry leaders like BASF, Stratasys, and DuPont through their healthcare-specific filament solutions.

• For example, BASF's Ultrafuse filament gained widespread use for printing essential medical supplies, such as face shields and ventilator components, in 2020 and 2021. This surge in demand has spurred continuous innovation in filament material development, ensuring that market players maintain momentum even as the pandemic's immediate impacts subside, setting the stage for future growth in a variety of industries.

Source: Protolabs Network Survey, March 2024

3D Printing Filament Market Trends

Rising demand for sustainable and bio-based filaments

A growing trend in the 3D printing industry is the increasing demand for sustainable, bio-based filaments like PLA (Polylactic Acid), which is derived from renewable resources such as cornstarch. This shift toward eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum-based products presents a win-win scenario by reducing the carbon footprint of manufacturing processes while maintaining high performance.

Companies like NatureWorks and 3D-Fuel are leading the way by heavily investing in next-generation biodegradable filaments, which are becoming more widely used in both industrial applications and by consumers.

• For instance, in March 2023, NatureWorks launched Ingeo PLA, a high-performance filament specifically designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable manufacturing and 3D printing needs. This trend aligns with broader sustainability goals, reinforcing the market’s focus on environmentally friendly innovations.

Growing adoption of electric monorail systems

The adoption of electric propulsion systems is a significant trend in the monorail industry, driven by the need for low-emission, energy-efficient transportation solutions in urban areas. Electric monorails are gaining prominence due to their efficiency in energy usage and lower operational costs, making them a key component in achieving sustainability targets for cities worldwide.

• For example, in June 2023, Chongqing completed its sixth expansion of what is now the world's largest electric monorail system. The system operates with minimal energy costs while contributing to China's efforts to reduce urban air pollution, underscoring the growing focus on sustainable urban transport solutions.

3D Printing Filament Market Growth Factors / Drivers

Increasing adoption in healthcare and medical devices

The healthcare industry is a significant growth driver for the 3D printing filament market, where customized solutions such as prosthetics, implants, and surgical models are increasingly being utilized. Filaments like PLA, ABS, and TPU are preferred for these applications due to their biocompatibility and flexibility.

• For example, Materialise NV has developed medical-grade filaments specifically designed to create patient-specific models for surgical planning. This innovation has proven crucial in enhancing precision and improving surgical outcomes, further highlighting the importance of 3D printing in advancing healthcare technologies.

Advancements in filament materials

The continuous development of filament material technology, particularly the rising use of engineering-grade and high-temperature-resistant filaments, is fueling market expansion. Materials such as PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) and PEI (Polyetherimide, known as Ultem) are becoming essential for demanding applications in aerospace, automotive, and industrial sectors, where superior mechanical properties and thermal stability are required.

• In 2023, Evonik launched its VESTAKEEP PEEK filaments, optimized for high-performance 3D printing applications. These advancements enable manufacturers to create lightweight yet highly resilient components, thereby broadening the scope of 3D printing in high-performance industries.

Restraining Factors

High cost of advanced filament materials

One significant limitation in the growth of the 3D printing filament market is the high cost of advanced filament materials, such as PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) and carbon-fiber composites. These materials are considerably more expensive than standard filaments like PLA (Polylactic Acid) or ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), restricting their application primarily to specialized industries.

• For instance, carbon-fiber reinforced nylon can be 10 to 20 times the cost of standard filaments, making it economically unfeasible for many small businesses or educational institutions looking to incorporate 3D printing into their programs. This high cost can limit innovation and experimentation, particularly among smaller entities that may not have the budget to invest in such premium materials.

As a result, the potential for widespread adoption of advanced 3D printing technologies is curtailed, particularly in sectors where budget constraints are a significant concern.

Market Opportunities

Expansion into emerging markets

The global 3D printing filament market offers substantial growth opportunities through expansion into emerging markets, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America. These areas are experiencing rapid industrialization and technological advancement, leading to increased demand for innovative manufacturing solutions. For example, in India, the government’s "Make in India" initiative promotes the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies, including 3D printing.

Companies like Stratasys and Materialise are actively targeting this market by establishing local partnerships and providing tailored 3D printing solutions to industries such as automotive and healthcare. By offering affordable, high-quality filament products and leveraging regional manufacturing capabilities, businesses can tap into the growing market potential, drive innovation, and enhance their competitive advantage in these rapidly developing economies.

As local businesses seek to modernize their production processes, the demand for 3D printing filaments is expected to surge, creating new avenues for growth.

Market Regional Insights

North america: dominant region

North America emerged as the largest market for 3D printing filaments in 2024, driven by the rapid adoption of 3D printing technologies across key industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and automotive. The United States leads the global market, with companies like MakerBot and Stratasys at the forefront of innovation in filament production and usage. The region's dominance is attributed to its robust manufacturing capabilities and a strong aerospace sector.

• For instance, in January 2023, Braskem S.A. finalized its acquisition of taulman3D, a prominent player known for its advanced filaments, including nylon and PETG. This acquisition allowed Braskem to expand its product offerings, focusing on high-end industrial applications essential for the aerospace, automotive, and healthcare sectors.

Moreover, MakerBot’s carbon fiber filament, launched in 2020 for its METHOD series, provides superior strength and precision, making it ideal for manufacturing tools, jigs, and fixtures used in automotive and aerospace applications.

Asia-pacific: fastest growing region

The Asia-Pacific region is projected to register the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) during the forecast period, largely due to the burgeoning manufacturing sector and increased investment in 3D printing technologies in countries like China and Japan. A significant factor driving this growth is the focus on sustainable manufacturing practices, which is expected to boost the demand for bio-based filaments, such as PLA.

China is rapidly increasing its capacity for 3D printing, particularly in the advanced filaments segment for industrial applications. For instance, in July 2023, Polish company Zortrax released a flame-resistant PPSU filament, specifically approved for use in the railway industry, highlighting the growing sophistication of materials available in the region.

Following closely is Japan, which is making strides in biocompatible filament development, which is crucial for medical and dental applications. In February 2023, researchers in Japan developed a new biocompatible filament for customized prosthetics and medical devices, showcasing the country’s commitment to advancing healthcare technologies through innovative 3D printing solutions.

Country insights

• U.S.:The United States dominates the global 3D printing filament market, largely due to its advanced manufacturing sectors and significant investments in aerospace and healthcare. The growth of 3D printing technologies is strongly supported by industry giants like Stratasys, DuPont, and 3D Systems, which drive innovations in filament production.

• For instance, 3D printing has significantly reduced production time and costs for lightweight components tailored to aerospace applications. Moreover, Braskem’s acquisition of taulman3D in 2023 bolstered its portfolio of industrial-grade filaments, such as nylon and PETG.Likewise, U.S. defense projects utilize 3D printing for rapid prototyping in military applications, thereby increasing the demand for high-performance filaments.

• China:China is quickly establishing itself as a powerhouse in the 3D printing filament industry, propelled by its vast industrial sector and government-backed innovations. The market witnessed remarkable growth from 2020 to 2023, with sales increasing by over 20%.Moreover, the demand is particularly strong in the aerospace, automotive, and consumer electronics sectors. Zortrax's flame-resistant PPSU filament, designed for extreme environments, exemplifies China's commitment to producing robust and diverse materials.

• Japan:Japan, known as the birthplace of 3D printing, excels in the medical field, particularly in creating biocompatible filaments for prosthetics, implants, and surgical instruments. The government's focus on personalized healthcare is propelling the 3D printing market forward.Recent advancements in 2023 saw new research dedicated to developing high-strength filaments for medical applications. Moreover, there is a growing market for lightweight automotive components made from advanced filaments, reflecting Japan's innovative spirit.

• Germany:Germany's strong industrial and automotive manufacturing base positions it as a key player in the 3D printing filament industry. German companies have pioneered the development of advanced metal and composite filaments, which are essential for high-precision components in the aerospace and automotive industries. Sustainability also plays a significant role in filament development, with a focus on eco-friendly production methods. Germany's robust manufacturing landscape is expected to drive rapid growth in its 3D printing market.

• South Korea:South Korea is enthusiastically increasing its adoption of 3D printing filaments, especially in the electronics and healthcare sectors. The Incheon Airport Maglev project exemplifies the country’s commitment to integrating high-tech solutions like 3D printing into infrastructure. South Korean companies are focusing on developing smart materials and biocompatible filaments for medical devices and electronics. Substantial investments in research are pushing the boundaries of advanced filaments suitable for cutting-edge applications.

• India:India's 3D printing landscape is rapidly evolving, particularly within the automotive and healthcare industries. Government initiatives like "Make in India" and collaborations with international 3D printing firms are boosting the popularity of additive manufacturing. Currently, PLA and ABS filaments are central to India’s 3D printing efforts, focusing on cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions, particularly for lightweight components in prosthetics and automotive parts. Moreover, Indian companies are partnering with global firms to import superior materials for the local market.

• United Arab Emirates (UAE):The UAE is embracing 3D printing as part of its ambitious Dubai 3D Printing Strategy, aiming to position Dubai as a global hub for 3D printing by 2030. The construction sector is a major focus, utilizing composite and concrete filaments to enhance resource efficiency and minimize waste in building projects. The healthcare sector is also benefiting from custom prosthetics and implants, which drive the demand for specially designed filaments. Sustainability in the UAE serves as a benchmark for developing eco-friendly 3D printing solutions.

• Brazil: Brazil's automotive and healthcare sectors are increasingly adopting 3D printing, primarily using PLA and ABS filaments for prototyping and medical applications. The government promotes innovation in manufacturing through various initiatives aimed at enhancing production efficiency. With one of the largest automotive industries in Latin America, Brazil is beginning to leverage 3D printing to reduce lead times and costs. Organizations like Embrapa are also exploring the development of filaments from biological sources, positioning Brazil to embrace alternative, sustainable materials.

Segmentation Analysis

By material type

Plastics Segment Dominates the Market

The 3D printing filament market is primarily dominated by the plastics segment, known for its versatility, ease of use, and affordability. Plastics like PLA (Polylactic Acid), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), and PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) are widely utilized across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and healthcare. The advantages of plastics—such as lower weight, ease of manufacturing, and suitability for rapid prototyping—make them ideal for both prototyping and end-use 3D printing products.

By plastic type

Polylactic Acid (PLA) Segment Leads the Market

The PLA segment is poised to lead the plastic category due to its biodegradability and eco-friendly nature. This characteristic makes PLA highly appealing for applications in prototyping, education, and DIY projects. Its flexibility and affordability further contribute to its widespread adoption, making it a preferred choice among users looking for sustainable yet effective printing solutions.

By diameter

Standard Diameter (1.75mm) Leads the Market

The 1.75mm diameter filament is the most widely adopted in the market, favored by both 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals. This standard size is compatible with a majority of desktop and industrial 3D printers, ensuring a consistent flow that enhances print quality and reliability. Its prevalence in the market underscores the importance of standardization in 3D printing technology.

By applications

Aerospace and Defense Segment is the Fastest Growing

The aerospace and defense sector is the fastest-growing segment in the 3D printing filament market, driven by the demand for lightweight, high-performance components tailored to specific applications. The ability of 3D printing to produce complex geometries and parts with shorter lead times significantly enhances operational efficiency in these industries. High-performance filaments are essential for manufacturing critical components, such as engine parts, airframes, and satellites, supporting innovation and performance in aerospace and defense applications.

Company Market Share

Key players in the 3D printing filament market are focusing on material innovations and partnerships to expand their product offerings and market presence.

Hatchbox: An Emerging Player in the Consumer Filament Market

Hatchbox is a good-quality manufacturer that specializes in producing high-quality PLA and ABS filaments, mainly targeting consumer and educational markets. The filaments are very affordable and reliable and have gained much popularity among 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals.

Recent Developments at Hatchbox include:

In August 2023, Hatchbox launched a new line of eco-friendly PLA filaments infused with recycled materials, targeting sustainability-conscious consumers

Recent Developments

• June 2024- BigRep, a leading German industrial additive manufacturing company, unveiled its latest innovation: the VIIO 250, a giant-sized, industrial-grade Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D printer. Designed to produce complex parts with high accuracy, the VIIO 250 can work with both engineering-grade and fiber-reinforced materials. This advanced printer enhances automation, simplifies processes, and significantly boosts productivity.
• April 2024- Anycubic launched an innovative home 3D printing initiative as part of its new 2024 product matrix. This exciting lineup features three highly anticipated products from the Kobra and Photon series: the Kobra 3 Combo, a multi-color FDM printer; the Photon Mono M7 Pro, boasting an impressive 14K precision; and an array of intelligent assisting features designed to enhance the user experience.

Analyst Opinion

As per our analyst, the 3D printing filament market is poised for significant growth, driven by advancements in material science and the increasing adoption of 3D printing technologies across various industries. Companies that prioritize investments in high-performance engineering filaments, sustainable materials, and medical-grade filaments are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Additionally, the continuous demand from the healthcare, automotive, and aerospace sectors will propel ongoing innovation in filament technology. The Asia-Pacific region, in particular, is experiencing an exponential rise in 3D printing adoption, further contributing to this upward trajectory and shaping the future of the industry.