Top 10 Companies in the Global Silica Sand Market, Supported by Heightened Demand in Glass Industry

SCR-Sibelco N.V., Mitsubishi Corporation, Chongqing Changjiang River Moulding Material (Group) Co., Ltd., U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc., Quarzwerke GmbH, JFE Mineral & Alloy Company, Mangal Minerals, Badger Mining Corporation, Euroquarz GmbH, and Covia Holdings LLC, among others, are the major players in the global silica sand market. 

The global silica sand market reached a value of about USD 22.85 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach around USD 37.95 by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by the increased demand in the glass industry.

Silica sand, often termed industrial sand, is a prevalent sand variety globally, primarily composed of silica or silicon dioxide alongside impurities like metal oxides and lime. Its high silica content and inert properties render it indispensable in numerous everyday goods. In the oil industry, it's dubbed frac sand due to its crucial role in hydraulic fracturing. Its purity and hardness make it ideal for withstanding corrosive environments and enhancing oil flow rates in deep wells. Frac sand facilitates the extraction of natural resources like gas and oil from challenging reservoirs like shale.

The glass industry's rising demand for silica sand is driving silica sand market growth, fuelled by its expanded use in various sectors, including solar panel manufacturing. As governments prioritise solar energy deployment, the demand for silica sand, a crucial component in glass production, is expected to surge. This trend underscores the material's pivotal role in supporting key industries and aligns with broader initiatives to promote renewable energy sources like solar power.

Global inclination towards natural shale gas to reduce dependence on crude oil is expected to drive silica sand market growth. Hydraulic drilling, utilising silica sand, extracts shale gas. Additionally, rising investments in infrastructure projects globally are projected to support silica sand demand. This trend reflects a strategic shift towards alternative energy sources and underscores the pivotal role of silica sand in supporting energy production and infrastructure development initiatives on a global scale.

In July 2022, Sibelco announced the acquisition of Echasa S.A., a mining company engaged in silica sand extraction from the Laminoria quarry near Vitoria in the Basque Country, Northern Spain, located 160 kilometres away from Sibelco’s nearest silica quarry in Arija. This acquisition was aligned with Sibelco's 2025 strategy and its vision to become the global leader in silica sand. It expanded Sibelco’s customer base in the glass, foundry, and construction markets in northern Spain, while extending its silica sand reserves and resources in Western Europe. At the time of acquisition, Echasa S.A. employed 51 people.

Top 10 Silica Sand Companies in the World:

SCR-Sibelco N.V.

Sibelco, a global leader in material solutions, specialises in industrial minerals such as silica, clays, and olivine, and excels in glass recycling. Established in 1872, the company operates in 30 countries, offering tailored solutions for industries ranging from glass and ceramics to construction and water purification. Committed to sustainability, Sibelco integrates environmental stewardship into its operations while prioritising employee health and safety and fostering diversity. With a workforce of over 5,000, Sibelco contributes significantly to 12 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting its dedication to societal progress.

Mitsubishi Corporation

Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), Japan's largest general trading company, operates globally with a network of around 1,700 group companies spanning 80 countries. With 10 Business Groups covering diverse sectors such as natural gas, automotive, and urban development, MC's activities extend beyond traditional trading to include project development and manufacturing operations. Additionally, its Industry Digital Transformation and Next-Generation Energy Business Groups reflect its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Employing approximately 60,000 people worldwide, MC has established longstanding partnerships across industries, including energy, metals, machinery, and food.

Chongqing Changjiang River Moulding Material (Group) Co., Ltd.

Chongqing Changjiang River Moulding Material Group Co., Ltd. specialises in resin-coated sand production, foundry sand reclamation, and manufacturing auxiliary materials for the foundry industry. With an annual production capacity exceeding one million tons, the company operates 42 state-of-the-art production lines across multiple locations in China. Its Tongliao facility, recognised as a leading manufacturing base for foundry sand, offers standard production capabilities, including silica sand mining. Serving over 500 customers nationwide, CCRMM is a prominent supplier to various industries, providing essential products and services, including proppants for the oil and gas sector.

U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc.

U.S. Silica, a global leader in industrial minerals and logistics, specialises in mining, processing, and material science to deliver over 1,500 products across diverse industries. With a focus on innovation, the company collaborates with clients to develop tailored solutions for various sectors, including oil and gas, construction, and recreation. As a member of the Russell 2000, U.S. Silica Holdings Inc. boasts over a century of expertise in producing commercial silica. Its subsidiaries, EP Minerals and SandBox Logistics™, further enhance its capabilities in diatomaceous earth and proppant logistics, respectively. Based in Katy, Texas, the company operates 27 facilities nationwide.

Quarzwerke GmbH

With 140 years of experience, Quarzwerke Group is a family-owned business specialising in mining and refining industrial minerals like quartz, kaolin, and feldspar. Operating primarily in Germany and Central Europe, the company focuses on product innovation and sustainability. Its diverse portfolio includes raw materials and refined products used in glassmaking, foundries, ceramics, construction chemicals, and more. With over 700 tailored products, including high-performance fillers, Quarzwerke strive to be a reliable partner, delivering value to customers while upholding social and ecological responsibility.

JFE Mineral & Alloy Company

JFE Mineral Co. Ltd. is a diversified company operating in the iron and steel industries. It mines, processes, and distributes various ores, produces steel slag products, and manufactures nickel ultrafine powder and cathode materials. Through its divisions, JFE Mineral contributes to society's formation and protection. Recently, it merged with Mizushima Ferroalloy and JFE Material, expanding its management resources and enhancing long-term sustainable growth prospects. JFE Steel, a subsidiary, is a leading steelmaker known for its innovative technology and commitment to environmental protection through reduced-impact ironmaking processes and high-performance steel materials.

Mangal Minerals

Mangal Minerals, Kutch's leading manufacturer and supplier of China Clay and Silica Sand, strives for global prominence under the guidance of Mr. Brijesh H. Gohil. Established in 2009, the company, a sister concern of Shree Ram Minerals, maintains international quality standards across its product range. With a manufacturing unit in Gujarat spanning 8 hectares and an application laboratory for tailored product development, Mangal Minerals prioritises customer satisfaction. 

Badger Mining Corporation

Badger Mining Corporation (BMC) prioritises high standard silica sand products, environmental responsibility, and community well-being. Serving diverse markets like oil and gas, construction, and recreation, BMC operates with family values since its inception in 1949. With origins in Fairwater, Wisconsin, BMC now boasts three sand mines and a coating facility across Wisconsin and Texas. The company's commitment to excellence extends to its merger with Atlas Resin Proppants in 2015, enhancing its product range. With about 200 associates, BMC remains dedicated to stakeholder satisfaction and continuous improvement.

Euroquarz GmbH

Originating in 1897, EUROQUARZ Group has evolved through successful collaborations, supplying silica-based products globally. From enamelled bathtubs to semiconductor circuit boards, their offerings cater to diverse industries. Renowned projects like London's Millennium Dome and the Neanderthal Museum feature their coloured quartz. EUROQUARZ GmbH, founded in Dorsten, Germany, operates subsidiaries in Ottendorf-Okrilla, Essen, and Hünxe, with a focus on silica gravel extraction and processing. Acquired by the Possehl Group in 2010, EUROQUARZ continues to expand its footprint in the specialised construction sector while retaining its autonomy.

Covia Holdings LLC

Covia, driven by market intelligence, delivers innovative, sustainable solutions tailored to customer needs. With expertise in mine planning and logistics, the company offers customised programs and a wide product range across various industries. The company’s commitment to lasting partnerships and responsible business practices ensures prosperity for communities and safety for all stakeholders. As a leading provider in the industrial and energy sectors, Covia offers high-quality products, technical expertise, and an extensive distribution network. The company excels through collaboration, attracting top talent and driving innovation for mutual success.