9% Nickel Steel Plate Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Thickness: Less than 30 mm, Thickness: 30-50 mm, Others) , Applications (Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Tanks, Transport Ship, Hydrogen Storage Tank, Other) and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2034

9% Nickel Steel Plate Market Size

The Global 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market size was USD 2.52 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.85 billion in 2025, before rising significantly to USD 7.66 billion by 2034. This growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.62% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Approximately 52% of market demand stems from LNG tank applications, while 27% is contributed by transport ships and 13% by hydrogen storage solutions. Technological innovations in cryogenic steel processing now account for over 31% of ongoing production investments worldwide.

The US 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market is rapidly expanding, driven by LNG terminal construction and advanced shipbuilding demand. The region contributes over 27.02% to global market share. Around 65.4% of North American usage is concentrated in the United States. Domestic demand for cryogenic-grade steel has increased by 24%, supported by federal investment initiatives and infrastructure expansion in LNG export terminals and hydrogen facilities.

Key Findings

• Market Size: $2.52 billion (2024), $2.85 billion (2025), $7.66 billion (2034), CAGR of 11.62% over the forecast period.
• Growth Drivers: LNG tank applications drive 52%, cryogenic vessels add 22%, and hydrogen storage contributes 13% to overall market growth momentum.
• Trends: Over 31% of manufacturers are innovating cryogenic materials, while 35% focus on advanced welding and precision machining processes.
• Key Players: ArcelorMittal, Nippon Steel, CHINA BAOWU STEEL GROUP, POSCO, Hyundai Steel & more.
• Regional Insights: Asia-Pacific leads with 39.3% share due to LNG and shipbuilding demand, followed by North America at 27.02%, Europe at 23.86%, and Middle East & Africa contributing 9.82% through hydrogen and LNG infrastructure projects.
• Challenges: 39% of fabricators face complexity in manufacturing, and 18% report rework due to welding or structural inconsistencies.
• Industry Impact: Around 42% of investments are now directed to automation, with 21% adoption of AI-driven material inspections and defect detection.
• Recent Developments: 37% of new products are dual-compatible for LNG and hydrogen; 20% target green energy applications with reduced nickel content designs.

The 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market plays a crucial role in enabling safe cryogenic storage and transport of LNG and hydrogen. Over 68% of plates are used in energy infrastructure, while the rest are deployed in marine, aerospace, and industrial storage systems. Key trends involve nickel optimization, improved ductility, and hybrid plate engineering.

9% Nickel Steel Plate Market Trends

The 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market is experiencing significant transformation owing to a surge in demand for cryogenic applications and LNG storage systems. Over 68% of demand is driven by LNG tank construction, while approximately 22% is attributed to usage in cryogenic vessels. The rising preference for low-temperature-resistant alloys in marine and offshore sectors is contributing to a growth of nearly 17% in shipbuilding utilization. Furthermore, about 35% of manufacturers are investing in advanced welding technologies to enhance fabrication quality. The energy infrastructure sector contributes around 28% to the total consumption, indicating an upward trend in power plant and terminal applications. Innovations in material toughness and ductility have seen adoption rates grow by over 31%, reflecting the industry's shift toward performance-oriented solutions.

9% Nickel Steel Plate Market Dynamics

DRIVERS

Increasing LNG Infrastructure Expansion

Global investments in LNG terminals and storage systems have boosted the demand for 9% nickel steel plates. Over 64% of LNG facility developers specify nickel steel plates for tank insulation and durability, with cryogenic steel materials accounting for more than 70% of infrastructure procurement specifications in low-temperature applications.

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion in Cryogenic Transport

Approximately 42% of newly built cryogenic tankers are now utilizing 9% nickel steel plates due to their excellent performance in sub-zero environments. Emerging regions are expected to increase their usage share by 26%, offering a strong opportunity for manufacturers focusing on LNG and hydrogen transport logistics.

RESTRAINTS

"Volatility in Raw Material Availability"

Over 48% of producers report delays due to fluctuating supply of nickel alloys, impacting timely delivery and pricing. Nearly 33% of procurement officers cite uncertainty in alloy availability as a key restraint in adopting 9% nickel steel plates in larger infrastructure projects.

CHALLENGE

"Manufacturing and Fabrication Complexity"

More than 39% of fabricators face challenges in welding and heat treatment processes specific to 9% nickel steel plates. Technical skill gaps and high precision requirements have increased production rework rates by 18%, posing a hurdle in widespread adoption across emerging markets.

Segmentation Analysis

The 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market is segmented based on thickness, with each category demonstrating unique application demand and growth potential. In 2025, the total market size is projected to reach USD 2.85 billion. Among these, Thickness: Less than 30 mm holds the largest share, followed by Thickness: 30-50 mm, and Others. The overall market is expected to expand significantly, supported by increasing LNG infrastructure projects and cryogenic storage demands across all segments. Each type is set to witness distinct growth patterns with respective CAGR contributions throughout the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

By Type

Thickness: Less than 30 mm

This segment is widely adopted in LNG tank inner walls, transport pipelines, and cryogenic containment due to its enhanced weldability and high tensile strength. Over 46% of total applications rely on steel plates of less than 30 mm thickness. Demand is growing steadily due to its flexibility in modular fabrication and lower cost-to-performance ratio.

Thickness: Less than 30 mm held the largest share in the 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market, accounting for USD 1.27 billion in 2025, representing 44.56% of the total market. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.2% from 2025 to 2034, driven by LNG terminal construction, rising demand for cryogenic transport, and material efficiency advantages.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Type 1 Segment (heading-Major Dominant Countries in the Type 1 Segment)

• China led the Thickness: Less than 30 mm segment with a market size of USD 420.5 Billion in 2025, holding a 33.1% share and expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.6% due to rapid LNG capacity expansion and steel output.
• South Korea followed with USD 290.1 Billion in 2025, holding a 22.8% share, driven by growth in cryogenic shipbuilding and increased industrial fabrication.
• Japan held USD 178.3 Billion in 2025, capturing 14% share, supported by offshore LNG and hydrogen infrastructure growth.

Thickness: 30-50 mm

Plates in the 30–50 mm thickness range are crucial for structural base components in large LNG storage tanks and pressure vessels. Around 36% of end users in the energy and petrochemical sectors prefer this type for its superior fracture resistance under sub-zero temperatures. It also plays a vital role in critical LNG storage terminal engineering.

Thickness: 30-50 mm accounted for USD 1.03 billion in 2025, making up 36.21% of the total market. The segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.4% during 2025–2034, fueled by large-scale LNG storage investments, industrial process optimization, and improved metallurgical processing technologies.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Type 2 Segment (heading-Major Dominant Countries in the Type 2 Segment)

• United States led the Thickness: 30-50 mm segment with a market size of USD 372.6 Billion in 2025, holding a 36.1% share, driven by large LNG export terminal construction and advanced metalwork adoption.
• Germany followed with USD 210.8 Billion in 2025, representing a 20.5% share due to strong industrial use and adoption of thick gauge cryogenic plates in chemical processing plants.
• India accounted for USD 163.9 Billion in 2025, claiming a 15.9% share, owing to LNG import terminal expansion and domestic steel policy initiatives.

Others

The “Others” category includes thicknesses outside the mainstream ranges and is often used for custom applications in niche projects, such as aerospace cryogenic containers and experimental hydrogen facilities. Although contributing to only 19.23% of the market, these plates offer significant innovation potential and specialized strength-to-weight ratios.

Others accounted for USD 0.55 billion in 2025, representing 19.23% of the total 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market. This segment is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.3% from 2025 to 2034 due to niche engineering demands, R&D-based plate production, and its adoption in prototype energy systems.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Type 3 Segment (heading-Major Dominant Countries in the Type 3 Segment)

• France led the “Others” segment with USD 187.4 Billion in 2025, holding a 34% share, driven by strong innovation in cryogenic aerospace and hydrogen fuel system manufacturing.
• Italy followed with USD 160.5 Billion in 2025, capturing a 29.1% share, due to demand from advanced LNG equipment prototypes and steel R&D investments.
• United Kingdom secured USD 102.8 Billion in 2025, representing 18.6% of the segment share, supported by defense-related cryogenic development and customized alloy plate requirements.

By Application

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Tanks

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Tanks represent the primary application of 9% nickel steel plates, offering excellent fracture toughness and cryogenic resistance. These plates are integral in the containment systems of LNG storage and regasification terminals. Over 52% of global demand comes from LNG tank construction due to stringent material standards and safety requirements.

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Tanks held the largest share in the 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market, accounting for USD 1.48 billion in 2025, representing 51.93% of the total market. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.6% from 2025 to 2034, driven by LNG export terminal development, cryogenic material standards, and rising global LNG consumption.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Application 1 Segment

• China led the LNG Tanks segment with a market size of USD 493.2 Billion in 2025, holding a 33.3% share and expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.9% due to rapid LNG infrastructure expansion and government support.
• United States followed with USD 361.5 Billion in 2025, capturing 24.4% of the market, supported by growing LNG export capacity and federal energy transition initiatives.
• Qatar secured USD 211.6 Billion in 2025, accounting for 14.2% share, driven by investments in LNG liquefaction and storage expansion projects.

Transport Ship

The Transport Ship segment utilizes 9% nickel steel plates in cryogenic storage tanks onboard LNG and hydrogen carriers. About 27% of global applications belong to this category, owing to the steel's high impact resistance and lightweight fabrication potential. The rising global LNG trade has significantly bolstered demand in this segment.

Transport Ship accounted for USD 770.4 Billion in 2025, representing 27.04% of the total 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market. This segment is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.9% during 2025 to 2034, supported by shipbuilding contracts, maritime LNG logistics, and international fleet expansion.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Application 2 Segment

• South Korea led the Transport Ship segment with USD 286.9 Billion in 2025, holding a 37.2% share, driven by leadership in cryogenic LNG shipbuilding and technical advancements.
• Japan followed with USD 217.7 Billion in 2025, holding a 28.2% share due to maritime engineering expertise and international LNG carrier exports.
• Norway contributed USD 113.1 Billion in 2025, accounting for 14.7%, supported by offshore LNG fleet deployment and cold climate vessel design.

Hydrogen Storage Tank

Hydrogen Storage Tanks are an emerging application area for 9% nickel steel plates, utilized for safe cryogenic containment of liquid hydrogen. Around 13% of global demand stems from this segment, particularly in countries focusing on green hydrogen infrastructure and fuel cell adoption. Its usage is expanding rapidly with renewable energy integration.

Hydrogen Storage Tank segment held USD 370.5 Billion in 2025, making up 13% of the global market. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.6% during 2025–2034, driven by clean energy policies, hydrogen transport systems, and material adaptability to extreme low-temperature conditions.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Application 3 Segment

• Germany led the Hydrogen Storage Tank segment with USD 137.3 Billion in 2025, holding a 37% share, owing to hydrogen infrastructure investment and green energy targets.
• France followed with USD 101.5 Billion in 2025, representing a 27.4% share due to hydrogen mobility development and cryogenic tank research.
• South Korea contributed USD 68.4 Billion in 2025, capturing 18.4%, propelled by hydrogen city programs and industrial usage.

Other

The “Other” category includes applications such as aerospace cryogenic systems, chemical processing facilities, and research storage vessels. These niche uses account for 8.03% of the total market and are driven by demand for high-strength materials that operate efficiently in ultra-cold or highly volatile environments.

Other applications captured USD 229.7 Billion in 2025, representing 8.03% of the market share. This segment is expected to register a CAGR of 9.7% from 2025 to 2034, supported by specialized engineering projects and defense applications involving low-temperature storage materials.

Top 3 Major Dominant Countries in the Application 4 Segment

• United Kingdom led the Others segment with USD 82.4 Billion in 2025, holding a 35.8% share, due to research innovation and aerospace cold storage solutions.
• Italy followed with USD 73.5 Billion in 2025, accounting for a 32% share, supported by niche chemical and industrial adoption of cryogenic plates.
• Canada held USD 45.1 Billion in 2025, with a 19.6% share, driven by pilot hydrogen and defense technology applications.

9% Nickel Steel Plate Market Regional Outlook

The global 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market is segmented into four key regions: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. Each region contributes distinctively to the market share, based on infrastructure development, LNG capacity, industrial expansion, and technological advancements. In 2025, Asia-Pacific leads the market with the highest share, followed by North America, Europe, and the Middle East & Africa. The combined contribution of all regions sums up to 100% of the global market, with each segment exhibiting different levels of growth potential through 2034.

North America

North America’s 9% nickel steel plate market is strongly driven by LNG export infrastructure and rising adoption of hydrogen energy systems. The region contributes significantly to global demand, particularly in cryogenic tanks and marine applications. Strong industrial policies and public-private investments are further boosting regional consumption.

North America accounted for USD 0.77 billion in 2025, representing 27.02% of the global 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market. This region is expected to expand considerably through 2034, supported by LNG plant expansion, shipbuilding, and hydrogen storage innovation.

North America - Major Dominant Countries in the 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market

• United States led North America with a market size of USD 503.6 Billion in 2025, holding a 65.4% share and expected to grow steadily due to LNG terminal expansion and hydrogen mobility adoption.
• Canada followed with USD 182.1 Billion in 2025, capturing a 23.6% share driven by rising cryogenic infrastructure and industrial tank applications.
• Mexico secured USD 84.3 Billion in 2025, representing 11% share, supported by investment in LNG export projects and government energy reform policies.

Europe

Europe’s 9% nickel steel plate market is growing due to energy transition policies, LNG storage upgrades, and hydrogen economy initiatives. The demand is largely driven by cryogenic equipment for clean energy solutions, particularly in Northern and Western Europe. Regulatory frameworks also favor high-performance materials in industrial use.

Europe held a market size of USD 0.68 billion in 2025, representing 23.86% of the global market. Growth in this region is fueled by public investments in green infrastructure, shipbuilding modernization, and cryogenic R&D projects.

Europe - Major Dominant Countries in the 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market

• Germany led the European segment with USD 273.4 Billion in 2025, capturing 40.2% share, supported by hydrogen tank development and LNG adaptation in transport.
• France followed with USD 217.6 Billion in 2025, accounting for 31.9%, driven by renewable energy storage projects and cryogenic system upgrades.
• Italy secured USD 187.3 Billion in 2025, holding a 27.5% share due to industrial LNG terminal enhancements and hydrogen investment initiatives.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the 9% nickel steel plate market due to high LNG demand, rapid industrialization, and shipbuilding supremacy. The region leads in both production and consumption, particularly in China, South Korea, and Japan. Government-led infrastructure investments and technological advancements are accelerating adoption across cryogenic and marine sectors.

Asia-Pacific captured the largest share with USD 1.12 billion in 2025, accounting for 39.3% of the global market. This leadership is supported by aggressive LNG storage construction, shipbuilding dominance, and hydrogen energy innovation.

Asia-Pacific - Major Dominant Countries in the 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market

• China led the Asia-Pacific region with USD 462.9 Billion in 2025, representing 41.3% share, driven by LNG plant expansion and steel manufacturing capabilities.
• South Korea followed with USD 366.4 Billion in 2025, holding a 32.7% share due to LNG shipbuilding contracts and export capabilities.
• Japan held USD 288.1 Billion in 2025, contributing 25.7% share, supported by advancements in cryogenic materials and hydrogen energy strategy.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region is emerging in the 9% nickel steel plate market, driven by LNG investments and national hydrogen plans. While smaller in share, the region shows high potential due to government-backed infrastructure growth, especially in the Gulf states and North Africa.

Middle East & Africa accounted for USD 0.28 billion in 2025, contributing 9.82% of the global market. The segment is expected to grow as countries scale up LNG liquefaction and invest in cold-chain logistics and storage tanks.

Middle East & Africa - Major Dominant Countries in the 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market

• Qatar led the regional market with USD 118.4 Billion in 2025, holding a 42.2% share, due to major LNG project expansions and government-backed development.
• Saudi Arabia followed with USD 94.3 Billion in 2025, representing 33.7%, driven by hydrogen pilot projects and export facility upgrades.
• South Africa contributed USD 67.3 Billion in 2025, accounting for 24% share due to emerging cold storage infrastructure and energy diversification.

List of Key 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market Companies Profiled

Investment Analysis and Opportunities in 9% Nickel Steel Plate Market

The 9% nickel steel plate market is experiencing rising investment from public and private entities, driven by the surge in cryogenic infrastructure and LNG logistics. Approximately 42% of global investment has targeted advanced material processing facilities, while 31% of companies are expanding capacity to support LNG and hydrogen storage growth. Around 27% of firms are investing in automation for plate cutting and heat treatment, reducing operational costs by over 18%. Additionally, 23% of new players are entering the market with support from government-backed clean energy initiatives. These trends highlight a strong capital flow toward technology integration and geographic expansion.

New Products Development

Product innovation in the 9% nickel steel plate market is gaining momentum as nearly 37% of leading manufacturers have launched upgraded plate grades for improved cryogenic toughness. Around 29% of newly developed products now meet dual application criteria for both LNG and hydrogen containment. Over 21% of new developments incorporate AI-based quality inspection systems to ensure uniform mechanical properties across large batches. Moreover, 18% of producers are experimenting with reduced nickel content while maintaining sub-zero durability, aiming to minimize cost. These initiatives signal a shift toward customized product portfolios addressing specific industry requirements.

Recent Developments

• ArcelorMittal Expands LNG Plate Production: ArcelorMittal announced a 14% increase in production capacity for 9% nickel steel plates focused on meeting LNG terminal construction demand in Asia-Pacific and North America.
• POSCO Launches Smart Inspection Line: POSCO introduced a smart automated inspection line that improved quality control efficiency by 23%, enabling rapid assessment of microstructural toughness in cryogenic plates.
• CHINA BAOWU Launches Low-Nickel Variant: CHINA BAOWU STEEL GROUP released a new variant with 8.5% nickel content to lower costs while maintaining 95% of traditional toughness and ductility benchmarks.
• Nippon Steel Partners with LNG Tank Builders: Nippon Steel signed new long-term supply contracts with LNG tank construction firms, securing an estimated 12% share of the East Asia supply demand.
• Hyundai Steel Invests in Green Hydrogen Plates: Hyundai Steel announced plans to dedicate 20% of its cryogenic-grade production to green hydrogen applications, targeting regions with renewable storage needs.

Report Coverage

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the 9% nickel steel plate market, covering key market drivers, opportunities, restraints, regional insights, and leading companies. The study evaluates segmentation by type and application, offering detailed insights into the performance of thickness categories and end-user industries. Asia-Pacific emerged as the leading regional contributor with 39.3% share, followed by North America at 27.02%, Europe at 23.86%, and Middle East & Africa at 9.82%. Among applications, LNG tanks accounted for 51.93% of market demand, highlighting cryogenic applications as the core revenue generator. The report also profiles top manufacturers, with CHINA BAOWU STEEL GROUP and ArcelorMittal collectively holding over 36% market share. Approximately 37% of players are focusing on new product development, while 42% of industry investments are directed toward capacity expansion and technology upgrades. Emerging opportunities include hydrogen tank manufacturing and hybrid cryogenic steel formulations. The report includes an assessment of production techniques, supply chain analysis, and technological advancements such as AI-based defect detection systems, which are now adopted by nearly 21% of producers. It offers valuable data for stakeholders seeking to capitalize on material innovation, regional expansions, and demand from next-gen energy infrastructure.