The Australia silica market reached a value of nearly USD 58.80 Million in 2024. The market is assessed to grow at a CAGR of 6.50% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to attain a value of around USD 110.38 Million by 2034. The market growth can be attributed to rising construction activities, increasing water and wastewater treatment activities, the surging use of silica in novel applications, the growing interest in silicate-based cement, and the increasing emphasis on sustainability.
Base Year
Historical Year
Forecast Year
Silica plays a crucial role in water treatment processes, particularly in filtration, where it is used as a filter media in sand filters and ion-exchange resins. The latest data from the International Trade Administration indicates that Australia's expenditure on water and wastewater treatment services amounts to around US$6 billion annually. Hence, the growing water and wastewater treatment activities are surging the demand for high-quality silica-based filtration materials.
Silica is critical in the construction of pipelines, storage tanks, and refining plants, which are essential in natural gas production and transportation. Geoscience Australia reported that in 2021, Australia ranked as the seventh-largest gas producer globally, with its LNG exports reaching an all-time high of 83.2 million tonnes (Mt) in 2021–22, solidifying its position as the leading LNG exporter worldwide. With Australia solidifying its position as a major LNG exporter, silica producers are expanding their offerings to the LNG industry, potentially creating partnerships with companies involved in LNG exploration, production, and transportation.
Shale oil extraction heavily relies on hydraulic fracturing, a process that requires large amounts of silica sand. Geoscience Australia reported in 2023 that Australia possesses a substantial untapped shale oil resource of 131,600 petajoules (22,390 million barrels), which, if economic and environmental obstacles are addressed, has the potential to contribute to future oil supply. Hence, the increasing exploration and development of shale oil resources are leading to the rising demand for silica in the construction of extraction infrastructure, including processing facilities, pipelines, and drilling rigs. Moreover, Australian silica producers are investing in in new technologies to create specialised silica products for the oil and gas sector, ensuring that they meet the specific requirements of fracking operations.
Value in USD Million
2025-2034
Australia Silica Market Outlook
*this image is indicative*
Australia houses significant high-quality silica sand resources, with deposits in Western Australia and Queensland. The country is one of the major exporters of silica sand, and it accounts for around 1% of global silica sand production. Companies in the country such as Australian Silica Quartz Group (ASX: ASQ), Metallica Minerals (ASX: MLM), Diatreme Resources (ASX: DRX), and VRX Silica (ASX: VRX), among others, boast several silica sand projects.
The Australia silica market value is increasing amid the rising use of silica in novel applications such as 3D printing, nanotechnology, and smart coatings, among others. With advancements in nanotechnology, key players are developing silica nanoparticles in drug delivery systems to enhance the bioavailability of medications while reducing side effects and improving targeted delivery. They are also utilising silica in coatings to develop self-cleaning surfaces due to its hydrophobic properties that repel contaminants and dirt. Furthermore, in 3D printing technology, the application of silica to manufacture high-quality and performance inks is anticipated to surge in the forecast period.
The increasing adoption of 3D printing technologies is surging the usage of silica in the production of 3D printing filaments, particularly for sectors such as automotive, healthcare, and aerospace. Due to their high-temperature resistance and enhanced durability, silica-based materials are ideal for use in additive manufacturing components.
The Australia silica market development is being aided by the rising interest in silicate-based cement, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional Portland cement. As silicate-based cement lowers carbon emissions during production, the increasing emphasis on green building practices is bolstering the market. In the forecast period, the introduction of various initiatives by the Australian government to promote the adoption of green building solutions, especially in commercial and residential construction projects, is expected to surge the demand for sustainable construction materials, including silicate-based cement.
Rising construction activities; increasing emphasis on sustainability; novel applications of silica; and technological advancements in silica development are favouring the Australia silica market expansion.
The Australia construction sector generates around USD 360 billion in revenue per year and represents 9% of the country's GDP. Residential and building infrastructure represented 80% of the construction work in the country. Factors such as rapid population growth, infrastructural development, and urbanisation are boosting construction activities in the country. As per the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the population in Australia is projected to reach 30 million between 2029 and 2033. The increasing investments by the Australian government in residential, commercial, and industrial construction activities are further driving the Australia silica market growth. For instance, the South Australian government is investing USD 80 million in Prospect Corner, delivering 108 affordable townhouses to residents. In Q2 2024, the value of residential construction in South Australia increased by 7.5% to reach USD 1.1 billion, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Hence, the rising demand for construction materials such as concrete, glass, and bricks, among others, which require silica, is boosting the Australia silica industry revenue.
The growing commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible resource management is shaping the Australia silica market trends and dynamics. Key players are increasingly adopting sustainable methods for silica extraction that can lower environmental disruptions such as erosion control and land clearance. For instance, VRX Silica uses the VDT mining method, in which it uses a custom-designed and purpose-built front-end loader spade that lifts in-tact a 40cm-deep, 3x3m sod of topsoil from the area to be mined and transfers it directly to the previously mined area. With the growing emphasis on sustainability in sectors like construction and manufacturing, end-users are utilising recycled silica that can reduce the need for virgin materials and lower the environmental impact associated with mining, transporting, and processing new silica. Increasing research and development activities aimed at creating sustainable silica-based materials are expected to propel the growth of the silica market in Australia in the coming years.
The shift towards renewable energy sources and the rising demand for solar panels globally is surging the demand for silica. Silicon, the primary component of solar panels, is derived from the processing of high-purity silica. Silica sand facilitates the conversion of sunlight into electricity while enhancing the efficiency and durability of solar panels. Increasing research activities aimed at developing nano-engineered silica sand with improved durability and light transmission to enhance the efficiency of solar panels are further likely to shape the Australia silica market landscape. In 2022, solar PV investments in capacity additions surged by 20%, surpassing USD 320 billion, while accounting for 45% of overall global electricity generation investments. In Australia alone, over 3.72 million solar panel systems were installed on rooftops, as of 2024. In August 2024, the Victoria government launched a plan to add 6.3 GW of rooftop solar, 3 GW of utility-scale solar, and 1.2 GW of large distributed solar within the next decade amid the rising electrification needs.
Technological advancements in silica production are expected to revolutionise the Australia silica market dynamics. There is a growing adoption of advanced technologies such as hydraulic fracturing and in-situ leaching aimed at optimising the purity and quality of silica while reducing the use of resources such as water. Key players are also adopting technologies such as robotics and automation technologies to streamline transport and extraction, surge production efficiency, reduce human labour costs, and minimise operational costs, making the overall process more cost-effective. Moreover, innovations in silica refining technologies aimed at leading to more effective purity processes and improving the quality of silica are driving the market.
The Australian construction sector is thriving, generating approximately USD 360 billion annually, which accounts for 9% of the nation's GDP. With residential and infrastructure projects making up 80% of this activity, factors such as rapid population growth and urbanisation are boosting the demand for silica due to increased demand for materials like concrete and glass.
There is a growing emphasis on sustainability within the Australia silica market. Companies are adopting eco-friendly extraction methods to minimise environmental disruption. The use of recycled silica is becoming more prevalent, reducing reliance on virgin materials. Furthermore, the rising demand for solar panels—where high-purity silica is a key component—supports the market growth. In 2022, global solar PV investments surged by 20%, and with over 3.72 million solar systems installed in Australia by 2024; such initiatives to expand solar capacity further propel the market development in the forecast period.
Mining and processing of silica can lead to habitat loss and destruction, cause soil erosion and degradation, and increase sedimentation in water bodies. Silica mining can also result in the leaching of contaminants into surface water and groundwater, contribute to air quality issues, and lead to the depletion of high-quality reserves.
The demand for silica is highly volatile as it is dependent on economic conditions and several end-use sectors, particularly construction and manufacturing. Besides, the health risks associated with crystalline silica exposure can lead to stringent workplace safety measures, impacting the operational efficiency of key players.
The EMR’s report titled “Australia Silica Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Type
Market Breakup by Application
Market Breakup by End Use
Market Breakup by Region
By Type Insights
Crystalline silica, comprising forms like quartz, tridymite, and cristobalite, boasts an ordered and well-defined structure and is found in natural deposits such as quartzite, sandstone, and granite, among others. High-quality quartz plays an essential role in manufacturing optical glass, fibreglass, and glass containers, among others. The rising use of crystalline silica in the construction and mining sectors is aiding the Australia silica sand demand forecast.
Amorphous silica, meanwhile, can be derived from natural resources such as diatomaceous earth or produced synthetically. It is typically used as a coagulant and filtration aid in water treatment and as an anti-caking agent in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. It can also enhance flowability and reduce clumping in powdered materials while enhancing their processing during manufacturing.
By Application Insights
In paints, silica enhances flow, reduces mud cracking, controls rheology, improves opacity, prevents settling, enhances UV resistance, and boosts barrier properties, providing enhanced durability and protection against environmental factors. Key manufacturers also use silica sand in their formulations to achieve desired effects such as increased adhesion, improved texture, and enhanced resistance to abrasion and weathering. Moreover, the rising use of silica to improve the coverage and colour retention, abrasion resistance, and durability of paints to enhance their usage in high-traffic areas is fuelling the Australia silica market expansion.
Meanwhile, silica plays a crucial role in providing various functionalities and benefits, including improved mechanical properties and rheological control, to coatings. It also improves the mechanical strength, tensile strength, hardness, and impact and UV resistance of coatings, enhancing their durability.
By End Use Insights
Glass manufacturing represents the largest share of the market as silica (silicon dioxide) comprises 70%-75% of the glass composition. High-quality silica lowers the melting point of glass, enhances its weathering and chemical resistance, improves its clearing and transparency, and increases its resilience and mechanical strength, boosting its usage in various applications. The increasing glass manufacturing and remanufacturing activities in the country are positively influencing the Australia silica sand market development. In October 2022, Visy broke ground on its glass recycling and remanufacturing factory outside Brisbane.
Meanwhile, silica sand, due to its effective shape and size, is typically used as a filtration material for effective removal of pathogens and suspended solids in water and wastewater treatment plants. It also supports coagulation processes, helps maintain the pH balance of treated water, and prevents the formation of scale in equipment and pipes. The increasing investments in the expansion of water and wastewater treatment are propelling the Australia silica sand demand growth. In June 2024, the North West Treatment Hub Growth Program, with an investment of more than USD 1.5 billion, was announced. The programme includes upgrades to Riverstone, Castle Hill, and Rouse Hill Wastewater Resource Recovery Facilities.
Silica sand also serves as a key ingredient in the production of mortar, concrete, glass, and asphalt, widely used in the construction and building sector. The increasing residential, commercial, and industrial construction activities in Australia are aiding the segment’s growth. Meanwhile, in the shale oil and gas sector, silica sand is used as a proppant to keep fractures open in the rock formation process, enabling oil and gas to flow more freely.
New South Wales Silica Market Trends
New South Wales (NSW) is home to high-quality hard rock silica deposits, pure silica sand deposits, and extensive friable stones ideal for processed silica sand. Major geological associations for quartz and silica sand resources include Leached Pleistocene barriers (fine to medium grain deposits), natural dunes (fine-grained silica sand), Holocene coastal dunes (processed and unprocessed silica sand), and Cenozoic alluvial deposits (high-purity quartz and coarse silica). In the region, silica with a purity of 99.5% is widely used in the glass and foundry industries.
Victoria Silica Market Analysis
The robust growth of the construction sector in Victoria is boosting the Australia silica market revenue. As per the Victorian state government in 2021, the construction sector was one of the region's largest industries, contributing USD 21.6 billion to the Victorian economy and employing 9% of the total workforce. This, coupled with increasing infrastructural development activities, is driving the demand for high-quality silica as it is a vital raw material in the production of concrete and glass.
Queensland Silica Market Overview
In Queensland, prospective and current large-scale mining operations for silica sand are located in or close to Cape Flattery, approximately 40 km north of Cooktown. The average content of silica sand produced in the region is 99.93% SiO2 and 0.01% (100 ppm) Fe2O3, one of the highest grades globally available. The presence of prominent silica sand miners in Queensland such as Cape Flattery Silica Mines Pty Ltd, Mitsubishi Corporation, Diatreme Resources Ltd, and Metallica Minerals Ltd. also provides lucrative Australia silica market opportunities.
Australia Capital Territory Silica Market Outlook
Continued infrastructure development activities in the Australia Capital Territory are surging the demand for silica as a crucial ingredient in concrete and building materials. With the growing focus on renewable energy and the growing adoption of solar energy in the region, the demand for silica is increasing. With the rising focus on sustainability across different sectors, silica producers in the region are adopting more eco-conscious and efficient extraction practices.
Opportunities in the Western Australia Silica Market
Western Australia is renowned for its abundance of mineral resources, including high-purity silica and silica sand. This is creating lucrative opportunities for advanced extraction techniques and new silica mining projects. Innovations in sustainable mining practices aimed at reducing environmental impact are driving the Western Australia silica market expansion. Growing concerns regarding water scarcity and quality are boosting the demand for silica-based filtration technologies. In addition, the growing interest in speciality silica for use in applications such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and automotive manufacturing, among others, is further fuelling the market.
Key Australia silica market players are investing in expanding their extraction and processing facilities to capitalise on the rising demand for silica, especially from the glass and construction sectors. Australia silica companies are also incorporating sustainable mining and processing practices to promote circular economy practices and land rehabilitation post-mining.
Australian Silica Quartz Group Limited, headquartered in Perth, Western Australia, is a mining and exploration company that is focused on producing high-quality quartz and silica products. The company is committed to sustainable mining practices and emphasises community engagement and environmental responsibility. It actively invests in research and development (R&D) activities and innovations to explore new applications for silica products and meet the evolving demands of different sectors.
Simcoa Operations Pty Ltd., established in the late 1970s, is an Australian company that specialises in the manufacturing of high-quality silicon metal, serving sectors such as aluminium, solar energy, and chemicals. The company invests in research and development (R&D) activities to develop novel applications of silicon metals and improve its production processes to ensure its competitive advantage in the evolving market.
Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd. is a prominent supplier of construction solutions and materials in Australia. Some of its product offerings include concrete, cement, environmentally sustainable solutions, and aggregates. It is one of the largest construction material companies in Australia and plays a significant role in supporting construction activities and urban development in Australia.
*Please note that this is only a partial list; the complete list of key players is available in the full report. Additionally, the list of key players can be customized to better suit your needs.*
Other key market players include Diatreme Resources Limited, New Directions Australia Pty Ltd., and Mitsubishi Corporation, among others.
*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.50% between 2025 and 2034.
The silica market is categorised according to the types, which include crystalline and amorphous.
The key players are Australian Silica Quartz Group Limited, Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd., Simcoa Operations Pty Ltd., Diatreme Resources Limited, New Directions Australia Pty Ltd., and Mitsubishi Corporation among others.
Based on the silica applications, the market is divided into coatings, paints, and others.
The market is broken down into New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Australian Capital Territory, Western Australia, and others.
In 2024, the market reached an approximate value of USD 58.80 Million.
The market is estimated to witness healthy growth in the forecast period of 2025-2034 to reach a value of around USD 110.38 Million by 2034.
Explore our key highlights of the report and gain a concise overview of key findings, trends, and actionable insights that will empower your strategic decisions.
| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Historical Period | 2018-2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2034 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
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| Breakup by Type |
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| Breakup by Application |
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| Breakup by End Use |
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| Breakup by Region |
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| Market Dynamics |
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| Competitive Landscape |
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| Companies Covered |
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Australia
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United States (Head Office)
30 North Gould Street, Sheridan, WY 82801
+1-415-325-5166
Australia
63 Fiona Drive, Tamworth, NSW
+61-448-061-727
India
C130 Sector 2 Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
+91-723-689-1189
Philippines
40th Floor, PBCom Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue Cor V.A Rufino St. Makati City, 1226.
+63-287-899-028, +63-967-048-3306
United Kingdom
6 Gardner Place, Becketts Close, Feltham TW14 0BX, Greater London
+44-753-713-2163
Vietnam
193/26/4 St.no.6, Ward Binh Hung Hoa, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City
+84-865-399-124
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