IHS Electronics & Media
Report
Touch Screens
Who would win the transparent conductive film
market?
October 2013
Irene Heo, Senior Analyst, +82 31 704 7188, Irene.heo@ihs.com
© 2013 IHS
D1DB-MT-S-02-2013
ihs.com
Contents
I. Touch panel market and industry trend
8
•
9
‫‏‬
•
1. Report outline
•
1.1. Research objective
•
1.2. Research methodology
10
•
1.3. Research scope and definitions
11
9
2. Touch panel industry trends
12
•
2.1. Rising application of touch interface
12
•
2.2. Increasing penetration of touch technology
13
•
2.3. Touch panel technology and mechanism
14
•
2.4. Advent of capacitive touch market
16
•
2.5. Type and definition of capacitive touch panels
17
•
2.6. Capacitive touch panel application trends in major products
18
•
2.7. Changes in capacitive touch panel architecture of major applications
19
•
2.8. Pros and cons of capacitive touch panel by architecture: Overall
20
•
2.9. Pros and cons of capacitive touch panel by architecture: Small-sized applications
21
•
2.10. Pros and cons of capacitive touch panel by architecture: Mid-to-large size applications
23
•
2.11. Capacitive touch panel development directions: Overall
25
•
2.12. Capacitive touch panel development directions: Single layer solution
26
•
2.13. Capacitive touch panel development directions: In-cell/On-cell
28
•
2.14. Capacitive touch panel development directions: Possible approaches to polarizer integrated sensors
29
•
2.15. Hybrid products and their cannibalization
30
•
2.16. Trends in ITO alternatives
31
•
2.17. Release of flexible display: Samsung and LG to launch smartphones with curved screens using AMOLED in Q4-13
32
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
2
Contents
•
3. Touch panel market forecast
33
•
3.1. Classification of segments by application
33
•
3.2. Overall touch panel market forecast
34
•
3.3. Touch panel market forecast by technology
36
•
3.4. Touch panel market forecast by major application
38
•
3.5. Touch panel market share of major application
40
•
3.6. Resistive touch panel market forecast by application
41
•
3.7. Capacitive touch panel market forecast by application
43
•
3.8. Touch panel technology penetration trends
45
•
3.9. Capacitive touch panel market forecast by layer structure
47
•
•
Overview / Mobile phone / Tablet PC / Notebook PC / AIO PC / Overall
3.10. Capacitive‫‏‬touch‫‏‬panel‫“‏‬one‫‏‬film‫‏‬solution”‫‏‬market‫‏‬forecast
•
55
Film sensor / Glass sensor
II. Touch panel transparent conductive film industry
56
•
1. Types and characteristics of transparent conductive film
57
•
1.1. Types by material
57
•
1.2. Metal-based transparent conductive film types
59
•
1.3. Comparison of metal-based transparent conductive films
61
•
1.4. Classification by major process
62
•
1.5. Deposition methods
63
•
1.6. Patterning types
64
‫‏‬
•
2. Characteristics of transparent conductive film
65
•
65
2.1. Resistance and transmittance / Resistance and screen size
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
3
Contents
•
•
2.2. Comparison of characteristics by application size
66
•
2.3. Overall comparison
67
3. Transparent conductive film application trends
68
•
3.1. Transparent conductive film application trends by major application
68
•
3.2. Touch sensor/transparent conductive film application trends by major brand
69
•
•
•
•
3.3. Overall: Transparent conductive film application trends by application (Layer structure / major set maker)
74
4. Competition among transparent conductive films
75
•
4.1. Competition by major application
75
•
4.2. ITO film sensor production cost
77
•
4.3. Value chain of transparent conductive film and major manufacturers
79
5. Products and manufacturers of transparent conductive film
80
•
80
5.1. ITO film
•
•
•
87
Toppan, LG Chem, Panasonic, Mirae Nanotech, LG innotek, O-fil, Uni-Pixel Displays, Mitsubishi Paper Mills Limited/ Fujifilm/ Atmel,
Gunze, PolyIC, KETI, Toray, Kumho Electric
5.3. AgNW
•
•
Nitto, Teijin Kasei, Sekisui, LG Chem, MAX Film, Miraestech, Hanwha L&C, Oike, Gunze, O-film, Others
5.2. Metal Mesh
•
97
Hyosung, LGE, WIA Corporation, Others
5.4. Ag nano ink
•
•
Samsung, LGE, Leonovo, Huawei, HP, Dell, Asus, Acer, Toshiba, Sony
99
Carestream, Cabrios, InTek
6. Issues with film sensor
101
•
6.1. Narrow bezel: Necessity
101
•
6.2. Necessity of narrow bezel: Bezel generating process and key features
102
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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Contents
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6.3. Necessity of narrow bezel: Metal on ITO
103
•
6.4. One film sensor
104
•
6.5. Direct bonding with LCD cell is on the rise
105
•
6.6. Roll-to-roll photolithography patterning
107
•
6.7. Slim GFF for thin touch panel sensor
108
III. Touch panel transparent conductive film market
109
‫‏‬
•
•
•
1. Transparent conductive film market forecast
110
•
1.1. Market calculation basis: Capacitive touch panel layer structure
110
•
1.2. Market calculation basis: Pros and cons of each touch layer structure
111
•
1.3. Index chart
112
•
1.4. Transparent conductive film market forecast
113
•
1.5. Transparent conductive film market forecast by technology
114
•
1.6. Transparent conductive film market forecast by application
116
•
1.7. Resistive touch panel-use transparent conductive film market forecast by application
120
•
1.8. Capacitive touch panel-use transparent conductive film market forecast by application
124
•
1.9. Non-ITO market forecast
128
•
1.10. Non-ITO film market forecast by application
130
2. ITO film production lines and capacity
132
•
2.1. Production line and capacity by major company
132
•
2.2. ITO film production capacity and market share
135
•
2.3. ITO film production capacity by region and its index chart
137
3. ITO film supply chain/market share/price trend
138
•
138
3.1. Supply chain between touch panel makers and ITO film makers
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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Contents
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3.2. ITO film supply chain: Samsung Electronics Co.
141
•
3.3. ITO film supply chain: Apple Inc.
142
•
3.4. ITO film supply chain: LG Electronics Inc.
143
•
3.5. ITO film supply chain: LG Display Co.
144
•
3.6. ITO film supply chain: Shenzhen O-film Tech Co.
145
•
3.7. ITO film supply chain: Other major touch panel makers
146
•
3.8. Market share of ITO film makers' supplies to touch panel makers
147
•
3.9. Market share by ITO film maker
148
•
3.10. ITO film price trend
149
IV. ITO glass market and industry trend
150
‫‏‬
•
•
1. ITO glass market forecast
151
•
1.1. ITO glass market forecast
151
•
1.2. ITO glass market forecast by application
152
•
1.3. ITO glass market forecast by technology
154
•
1.4. Resistive touch panel-use ITO glass market forecast
155
•
1.5. Capacitive touch panel-use ITO glass market forecast
158
•
1.6. Comparison of resistive-use ITO glass and transparent conductive film market
161
•
1.7. Comparison of capacitive-use ITO glass and transparent conductive film market
162
•
1.8. Proportion of ITO glass and transparent conductive film by major application
163
2. Production line and capacity of ITO glass sensor maker
164
•
2.1. Production line and capacity of major maker
164
•
2.2.‫‏‬Major‫‏‬makers’‫‏‬production‫‏‬line‫‏‬by‫‏‬region
167
•
2.3. Trends in major manufacturers
169
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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Contents
•
•
AUO, Cando, CPT, HannsTouch, Innolux, Laibao, Micro Technology, Buwon Advanced Coating Technology, Others
3. Issues with ITO glass sensor
174
•
3.1. G2 structure
174
•
3.2. G1/G2 structure and manufacturing process
175
•
3.3. Comparison of sheet G2 and cell G2
176
•
3.4. Single layer ITO GG – GG1
177
•
3.5. Rising application of G2 sensors to notebook PC
178
•
3.6. Pros and cons of G2 in applications with 10-inch or larger screens
179
•
3.7. Cell G2
180
Appendix. ITO film technology outline
182
‫‏‬
•
1. ITO film technology outline and requirements
183
•
1.1. ITO film structure and general manufacturing process
183
•
1.2. Characteristics of ITO film materials
184
•
1.3. ITO film types (crystal, amorphous))
187
•
1.4. ITO film performance and assessment measures
188
•
1.5. Requirements for ITO film by technology
189
•
1.6. Touch panel ITO film technology – Touch‫‏‬panel’s‫‏‬requirements‫‏‬and‫‏‬solutions
190
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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I. Touch panel market and industry trend
Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
ihs.com
1. Report outline
1.1. Research objective
This year is a significant year for the touch panel market as adoption of ITO substitute film, or non ITO film materials (silver nanowire,
copper mesh, silver mesh, silver halide, silver nano particle etc), has been examined and implemented in full scale.
So far, touch panels were mostly used in devices with relatively small screens, such as smartphone, tablet PC, notebook PC, ATM,
and car navigation system. So ITO film’s resistance wasn't a big problem. But recently, touch user interface (UI) began to be used in
devices with larger screens, such as all-in-one (AIO) PC, electronic board, and large notebook PC. As the screen gets bigger data
needs to be processed rises, so transparent electrode resistance has become very important. For now, indium tin oxide (ITO) is the
most commonly used transparent conductive material. When using ITO, glass based ITO implements about 50-60 ohm resistance,
while film-based ITO can implement around 100 ohm resistance given its mass productivity.
When using ITO glass, which has lower resistance than ITO film, ITO glass can drive a touch panel up to the size of 20-30 inches.
But it also has many weaknesses such as less room to adjust weight, thickness, and designs. It is fragile and less productive as it
uses sheet unit process. Therefore, many attempts have been made to replace ITO glass. In particular, ITO substitute film has
already been applied in large devices where ITO film, which has relatively higher resistance, can't be used. (In fact, it will be more
correct to see this as a substitute product market for heavy, inconvenient ITO glass rather than a substitute market for ITO film.) In
addition, indium is a rare metal that is expensive and limited in supply, so we can see this as a move to replace this material.
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
At the same time, touch panel price is falling rapidly and expectation for optical properties is improving. Touch panel companies are
seeking to come up with plans to have better specifications and lower production costs. In this context, many changes are being
made in capacitive touch structure. Previously, GG (cover glass + ITO glass sensor) type, mostly used for the Apple products or
GFF (cover glass + two ITO film sensors) type accounted for most of the market. But now companies are using structures, which can
improve production efficiency, lower production costs, and better optical properties or more favorable structures in terms of weight
and thickness. In short, the representative structures, which can reduce ITO sensor layers, trim processes, while cutting costs and
thickness are GG  G1/G2, GFF  GF2, GF1, G1F, in-cell, and on-cell.
With these changes in the market, area demand of ITO film is likely to gradually slow its growth due to a rise in demand for non-ITO
film and a change in layer structures. Also, ITO film price is expected to fall rapidly as China and some other countries are investing
a large amount of money in ITO film production lines. This report analyzes and forecasts the overall transparent conductive film
market, including ITO film and non-ITO film, not to mention issues in the touch panel market. It also provides clues on how to deal
with the changes in the market going forward.
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
9
1.2. Research method
•
Data Collection
Data used in this report was collected via various methods. First, basic data, which becomes the foundation of the analysis, was
collected by direct information exchanges or researches through major industry supply chains. In addition, the latest information
was obtained by steadily collecting related technology information and research trends through various methods such as industry
and academic conferences, display related exhibitions, companies' earnings reports, analysis reports, press statements and
searching the Internet.
•
Data Analysis
The collected data has been analyzed under the methods of confirming the facts and correlating the information. We also made
the analysis through diachronic/synchronic studies by using existing analysis data. In particular, past demand/supply conditions
and technology comparisons have been using the industry forecasts and regular/irregular reports released by IHS Electronics &
Media as the fundamental basis of analysis.
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
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© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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1.3. Research scope and definitions
* Research scope: Analysis on touch panel and ITO film/ITO glass related market, technology trend, industry trend, product trend,
major end-products.
* Research items: ITO sensor, touch panel, other related materials
* Companies researched: Producers of above items and its raw materials
* Research period: Q2-Q3 2013
* Long-term forecast: Market in 2012-2017
* Supply chain: as of the third quarter of 2013
* Units
* Abbreviation and definitions of major terms
SAMPLE
-
Ksqm: 1,000 square meters
-
Msqm: 1 million square meters
-
$ million: 1 million U.S. dollars
-
Yen: Japanese yen
-
S/M: Small and medium, 10 inch or smaller
-
¥ million: 1 million yen
-
DSC: Digital still camera
-
Y/Y growth: Year-on-year growth
-
PMP: Portable multimedia player
-
CAGR: Compound annual growth rate
-
PND: Personal navigation device
-
PID: Public industry display
-
Game: Portable game device
-
DPF: Digital photo frame
-
AIO PC: All-in-one PC
-
TCF: Transparent conductive film
-
OCA: Optically clear adhesive
- OCR: Optically clear resin
www.ihs.com
- AgNW: Silver nanowire
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© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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2. Touch panel industry trends
2.1. Increase of touch interface application
‫‏‬
•
Touch technology is increasingly applied to all types of electronic devices used daily.
•
With projected capacitive touch sensors being applied as almost a standard on smartphones and other consumer electronics,
capacitive touch technology is replacing other technologies on almost all touch-sensor applications.
Touch everywhere
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
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© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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2.2. Increase in application of touch technology
‫‏‬
•
Most display devices require touch features, and therefore the application of the technology is increasing each year. Among such
applications, some products like tablet PCs or GPS navigation systems cannot function at all without touch technology.
Forecast of touch technology’s penetration rate
100%
90%
80%
70%
SAMPLE
60%
50%
www.ihs.com
40%
30%
20%
10%
2012
Source: IHS
2013(e)
Tablet PC
PND
PMP
Portable Game Device
Portable DVD Player
Portable Computer
Notebook PC
Mobile Phone
LCD Monitor
Industrial/Financial
e-Book Reader
DSC
Digital Signage
DPF
Camcorder
Automotive
AIO PC
0%
2017(f)
© 2013 IHS
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© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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2.6. Capacitive touch panel application trends in major products
‫‏‬
•
The market initially started with the glass types (GG, DITO) and film types (GFF), but currently there are more than 10 types of
touch panels with different layer structures.
•
Each method has its pros and cons according to the technology, production cost, client preference, and the situation of each
developer.
Projected capacitive touch layer types and major products of each type
SAMPLE
Start point
Source: IHS
Start point
www.ihs.com
© 2013 IHS
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Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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•
In terms of cost and performance, G2 (sheet) layer structure has the most competitive features, whereas GG has some drawbacks
in weight and thickness.
Pros and cons of capacitive touch layers – Tablet PC/notebook PC (Mid-to-large size applications)
GG
GFF
On-Cell
(AMOLED)
In-Cell
(LCD)
G2
(Sheet)
G2
(Cell)
G1F
G1
GF2
(DITO)
GF1
Cost Factors Sum
Performance Factors Sum
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
Pros and cons of capacitive touch layers – Tablet PC/notebook PC (Mid-to-large size applications)
Mass Production
(Medium~Large size)
3.0
SAMPLE
2.5
Narrow Bezel
www.ihs.com
2.0
Yield Rate
GG
1.5
GFF
1.0
0.5
Multi Touch
-
Cost
G2
(Sheet)
G2
(Cell)
G1F
Strength
Source: IHS
Thin and Light
Optical
GF2
(DITO)
© 2013 IHS
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Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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2.12. Capacitive touch panel development directions: Single layer solution
‫‏‬
•
The single layer type touch (GF1, G1, GG1) architecture is cheaper than the existing two layer types, and is increasingly being
applied along with the expansion of the low cost smartphone market .
•
Along with cutting back on the cost of materials and the less complex process, allowing for higher yield rates, low cost
manufacturing is possible.
•
As for GF1 type, the overall thickness of the panel can be reduced along with the elimination of one ITO film, and if used with a
plastic cover befitting its nature of a low cost panel, the cost can be further lowered. (But when using plastic covers, a thicker
cover must be used compared to glass to prevent warping).
•
The multi-touch feature is limited, and whereas the two layer type has a standard of 10 points, single layer types is divided into
one, two, and five points. (Selectively applicable depending on the single layer sensor pattern structure and controller IC.)
•
Because of limited multi-touch and narrow bezel features, single layer structures are mostly used for smartphone sizes.
SAMPLE
Advantages of one layer type solution over two layer type: Simpler process and lower cost
Double ITO Layers – G2
Source: IHS
www.ihs.com
Single ITO Layer – G1
4~5 Layers by photo processes
Single layer photo process
image
Image
Double ITO Layers – GFF
Single ITO Layer – GF1
Double ITO films
Single ITO film and plastic cover
image
image
© 2013 IHS
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Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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2.14. Capacitive touch panel development directions: Possible approaches to polarizer integrated sensors
‫‏‬
•
Polarizer is a multi-layer film.
Another hybrid touch layer approach – ITO integrated polarizer: Layer approaches and thickness reduction
GFF to LCD
SAMPLE
Possible approaches
Polarizer integrated sensor to LCD
www.ihs.com
Possible approaches
Polarizer integrated sensor to AMOLED
Cover Window
OCA/OCR
ITO Film
OCA
ITO Film
OCA/OCR
Polarizer
image
CF
TFT
Polarizer
Source: IHS
Application with normal cover glass
Application with G1 cover glass
© 2013 IHS
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3. Touch panel market forecast
3.1. Classification of segments by application
‫‏‬
Classification of segments by application
Category
Segment
Application
Mobile Phone
Tablet PC
Camcorder
Digital Still Camera (DSC)
Personal
e-Book Reader
Portable Multimedia Player (PMP)
SAMPLE
S/M*
www.ihs.com
Portable Game Device
Portable DVD Player
Digital Photo Frame
Portable Navigation Device (PND)
Car Application
Automotive
Financial
Public / Industrial
PDA
Others
S/M Others
Personal
Notebook PC
LCD Monitor
Home/Office
Large
AIO PC
Public / Industrial
Digital Signage
Others
Large Others
*S/M: Small and Medium, 10 inches or smaller. Yet, every tablet PC is categorized under S/M.
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
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Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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3.2. Overall touch panel market forecast: Revenue, 2012-2017
‫‏‬
•
In 2013 the touch panel market size is expected to post $18 billion, up 11.5% from the previous year.
•
The five-year CAGR from 2012 to 2017 is forecast to be 9.1%.
Overall touch panel market forecast ($ million)
30,000
50%
45%
25,000
40%
35%
20,000
30%
15,000
25%
20%
SAMPLE
10,000
5,000
15%
10%
www.ihs.com
5%
0
0%
2012
2013
2014
Revenue
2015
2016
2017
Y/Y Growth
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
Overall touch panel market forecast ($ million)
2012
Revenue
Y/Y Growth
Source: IHS
18,054
47.3%
2013
20,125
11.5%
2014
23,282
15.7%
2015
25,586
9.9%
2016
27,591
7.8%
2017
27,960
CAGR
9.1%
1.3%
© 2013 IHS
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Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
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3.8. Capacitive touch panel market forecast by layer structure: Overall, 2012-2017
‫‏‬
•
Film types include GFF, GF1, and GF2, whereas glass types include GG, G2, and G1. Hybrid refers to G1F, and embedded types
are in-cell and on-cell.
•
Film types are forecast to post the steepest growth, and glass types are also expected to show a steady growth centering on
embedded types and cover integrated types.
Capacitive touch panel market forecast by layer structure (Ksqm)
Capacitive touch panel market forecast by layer structure (%)
100%
18,000
90%
16,000
80%
14,000
SAMPLE
12,000
www.ihs.com
10,000
70%
60%
50%
8,000
40%
6,000
4,000
20%
2,000
10%
0
Film Sensor
Glass Sensor
Hybrid Sensor
Embedded Sensor
Source: IHS
30%
0%
2012
3,079
4,331
2013
6,561
3,366
2014
9,690
3,764
2015
12,247
4,786
2016
14,821
5,380
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
16,543
Embedded Sensor
12%
17%
20%
20%
21%
21%
5,808
Hybrid Sensor
1%
2%
2%
2%
2%
1%
51%
27%
22%
22%
21%
20%
36%
54%
57%
57%
57%
57%
2017
77
191
281
364
389
417
Glss Sensor
1,062
2,139
3,338
4,252
5,333
6,205
Film Sensor
© 2013 IHS
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
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II. Touch panel transparent conductive film industry
Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
ihs.com
1.2. Metal-based transparent conductive film types
‫‏‬
Metal-based transparent conductive film types – by material
Silver series
Ag Nanowire
Ag Halide
(Film developing)
Ag Mesh
(Direct Printing)
Source: IHS






Resistance range:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Target applications:
Price:
Major players:






Resistance range:
Advantages:
www.ihs.com
Disadvantages:
Target applications:
Price:
Major players:






Resistance range:
Transmittance:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Target applications:
Major players:
SAMPLE
© 2013 IHS
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1.3. Comparison of metal-based transparent conductive film
‫‏‬
Metal-based transparent conductive film types – Overall
Resistance(Ω)
Ag Nanowire
Ag Halide
Cu Mesh
Ag (Direct Printing)
ITO
30~50Ω
60Ω
0.1~0.5Ω
60Ω
80Ω or higher
Transmittance(%)
Merit
Demerit
Flexibility
Method of
securing pattern
visibility
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
Layer Type
Price
(ITO sensor: 1)
Target Application
Major Supplier
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
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2. Characteristics of transparent conductive film
2.1. Resistance and transmittance / Resistance and screen size
‫‏‬
•
The correlation between surface resistance and transmittance of each material.
•
Generally, the resistance can be lowered with a thick deposition, but on the other hand this will lower transmittance. Because of
such correlations, the biggest challenge for transparent electrode film is to deposit a thin layer whilst keeping the resistance at a
steady low level.
Transparent conductive film comparison: Resistance and transmittance
Transparent conductive film comparison: Resistance and screen size
SAMPLE
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Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
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© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
24
2.3. Overall comparison
‫‏‬
•
Comparison of features without distinguishing size
•
Cu mesh is superior in resistance and transmittance, AgNW in flexibility and transmittance, and Ag halide in cost, thickness and
flexibility.
•
Each material has its own characteristics, therefore can also be divided into optimal applications.
Comparison of transparent conductive film
Resistance(Ω)
5
4
Process efficency
(Cost)
3
2
1
Transmittance (%)
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
0
Thickness
Pattern Visibility
ITO Film
Cu Mesh
Ag Mesh
Ag Halide
AgNW
Flexibility
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
25
3.2. Touch sensor/transparent conductive film application trends by major brand
‫‏‬
Sensor application trends by major set maker - Samsung
Smart Phone
Tablet PC
Notebook PC
AIO PC
Major Player
ITO Film
ITO G2
Ag Halide
Ag Mesh
Cu Mesh
AgNW
SAMPLE
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
www.ihs.com
Sensor application trends by major set maker - LGE
Smart Phone
Tablet PC
Notebook PC
AIO PC
Major Player
ITO Film
ITO G2
Ag Halide
Ag Mesh
Cu Mesh
AgNW
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
26
ITO film sensor production cost structure estimates ($)
4”
7”
Materials
GFF
GF1
GFF
GF2
GF1
ITO
Paste
OCA
Others
Yield
Cost
Indirect cost
Margin
SAMPLE
ASP
Notes:
GFF architecture is cover glass/OCA/ITO film/OCA ITO film. Sensor production cost includes two patterned ITO films and OCA for cover bonding.
GF1 and GF2 architecture is cover glass/OCA/ITO film. Sensor production cost includes a patterned ITO film and OCA for cover bonding.
Source: IHS
www.ihs.com
Cost rate for 7” GFF sensor
9%
© 2013 IHS
Cost rate for 7” GF2 sensor
9%
7%
Cost rate for 7” GF1 sensor
7%
3%
14%
4%
4%
10%
5%
52%
14%
56%
60%
13%
14%
10%
ITO Film
Source: IHS
Paste
9%
OCA
Others
Indirect cost
Margin
© 2013 IHS
ITO Film
Source: IHS
Paste
OCA
Others
Indirect cost
Margin
© 2013 IHS
ITO Film
Source: IHS
Paste
OCA
Others
Indirect cost
Margin
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
27
5. Products and manufacturers of transparent conductive film
5.1. ITO Film
‫‏‬
Nitto Denko Corp.
‫‏‬
•
Nitto Denko, which has a high-tech technology in the adhesive sector, holds the largest share in the market for polarizer, a key
component of LCD. It is leading the market for various optical films, such as anti-reflective, adhesive, and PET.
•
It is also leading the ITO film sector. Its films are applied in high-end products, such as mobile phones. Its products are well
recognized in the industry and even some set makers specifically suggests using the Nitto films.
•
The company’s representative ITO film has a double layer structure, which uses two sheets of PET films. This is recognized as
the optimized solution for ITO film, with such advantages as stronger durability, cushioning effect (resistive), and no traces of
etching, compared to other companies' products.
•
It has the industry's top production capacity (Currently, annual production capacity is expected to reach 12 million square meters
(Msqm).)
•
It has the industry's top productivity by outsourcing HC and index matching film production while it just sputters only ITO films.
•
A new production line is slated to start operation. The new line can engage in the production of wide films, so production capacity
www.ihs.com
is expected to more than double in 2014.
SAMPLE
Product specifications
Elecrysta, ITO film by Nitto Denko
V270
V150
V100
Sheet Resistance (Ω /ㅁ)
270
140
100
PET Film
Transmittance (%)
>90
>90
>90
Adhesive
Back Coating
Hue b
1.4
1.4
1.4
Reflectance difference
(%)
0.3~1.0
0.8
0.8
Clear HC
PET Film
Source: IHS
Under Coating 1(IM)
Under Coating 2(IM)
ITO
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
28
III. Touch panel transparent conductive film market
Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
ihs.com
1. Transparent conductive film market forecast
1.1. Market calculation basis: Capacitive touch panel layer structure
‫‏‬
•
Theoretically, fewer layers mean better optical properties, lower raw material costs, and higher yield rates through fewer
processes.
•
But in reality, window integrated technologies are very difficult to realize. They cause problems such as low yield and high costs.
•
Currently, we are in the process of solving these technical problems one at a time
Touch layer structures and development direction
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
30
1.2. Index chart
‫‏‬
•
To calculate the actual demand for transparent conductive films, factors such as the number of films used, yield rates, and cutting
efficiency have to be applied differently by touch layer structure and year.
•
In this page, an index chart was made by dividing the overall transparent conductive film demand area by the film sensor touch
area.
•
Transparent conductive film demand in 2013 is forecast to be about three times the touch panel area.
•
But this value is expected to continue to fall as the touch panel production yield continues to rise and application of one layer
sensors continue to increase.
Graphchart
Index
title : ITO demand vs. film sensor touch area by application
Index
Graphchart
title : ITO demand vs. film sensor touch area
3.4
8.0
3.3
7.0
SAMPLE
6.0
3.2
5.0
3.1
www.ihs.com
3.0
4.0
2.9
3.0
2.8
2.0
2.7
1.0
0.0
2.6
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2012
2017
AIO PC
TCF demand logic (TCF demand/Film sensor touch demadn)
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
Source: IHS
2013
2014
Mobile Phone
2015
Notebook PC
2016
2017
Tablet PC
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
31
1.3. Transparent conductive film market forecast: Revenue/Area, 2012–2017
‫‏‬
•
In 2013, transparent conductive film market is forecast to record ¥86.6 billion in value and 23.6 Msqm in terms of area.
•
The market's value is expected to drop gradually along with the fall in film prices and emergence of one film solution (GF2, GF1).
•
By area, the market is expected to exceed 50.4 Msqm in 2017.
Overall transparent conductive film market forecast (¥ million)
Overall transparent conductive film market forecast (Ksqm)
140,000
60%
120,000
50%
60,000
80%
70%
SAMPLE
100,000
50,000
60%
40%
www.ihs.com
80,000
30%
60,000
20%
40,000
10%
40,000
50%
30,000
40%
30%
20,000
20%
20,000
10,000
0%
10%
0
Revenue
Y/Y Growth
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
55,482
86,632
110,226
120,162
126,999
125,580
9.3%
56.1%
27.2%
9.0%
5.7%
-1.1%
transparent conductive film: Transparent Conductive Film
Source: IHS
-10%
© 2013 IHS
0
Source: IHS
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Area
13,775
23,605
31,673
38,224
45,018
50,383
Y/Y Growth
65.6%
71.4%
34.2%
20.7%
17.8%
11.9%
0%
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
32
2. ITO film production lines and capacity
2.1. Production line status and production capacity by major company
‫‏‬
ITO film production line status and capacity (1)
Nation
Company
Region
Equipment
#
Width(mm)
Manufacture
Type
Capacity
(10K/Mon)
Capacity
(10K/Year)
Note
SKC Hass
Hanwha L&C
Toray AMK
Hansung
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
South
Korea
Miraestech
MAX Film
LG Chem
LG Hausys
Mirae INT
Plaworks
Digitech Systems
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
33
2.2. ITO film production capacity and market share
‫‏‬
•
Of‫‏‬the‫‏‬transparent‫‏‬conductive‫‏‬film,‫‏‬ITO‫‏‬film’s‫‏‬production‫‏‬capacity‫‏‬is‫‏‬predicted.
•
Total production capacity in 2013 is expected to reach 34.3 Msqm thanks to capacity expansions in China. In 2015, production
capacity is expected to reach 59 Msqm.
ITO film capacity forecast by manufacturer (Ksqm)
ITO
film
capacity forecast by manufacturer (Ksqm)
Graph
title
70,000
Manufacturer
90%
60,000
70%
50,000
50%
30%
30,000
10%
www.ihs.com
20,000
-10%
10,000
Capacity
Y/Y Growth
Source: IHS
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
15000
23,460
34,260
58,956
58,956
16%
56%
46%
72%
0%
-30%
© 2013 IHS
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
2013
2014
SAMPLE
40,000
0
2012
Nitto
Oike
MAX
Junhong
Ofilm
Hanwha L&C
MiraeStech
Hansung
Teijin Kasei
Suzutora
EFUN
BETA(Gamma)
CGS
LGC
LGH
DNP
Toray AMK
Join Well
Ushine
Mirae INT
Cheeshin
Wanshun
Biel
KDX
Total
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
34
3. ITO film supply chain/market share/price trend
3.1. Touch panel maker and ITO film maker's supply chain
‫‏‬
‫‏‬
Supply chain of touch panel and ITO film manufacturers
Touch panel maker
Touch Type
Structure
ITO Film supplier
Note
Upper ITO Film) Nitto
F/F Type
Resistive Type
Bottom ITO Film) Sekisui, Oike, etc
YFO
Mobile Phone, Navigation, Tablet PC, DSC
Capacitive Type
F/G Type
Local ITO Film Maker
GFF, G1F, GF1, G2, GF2(Developing)
Nitto , Sekisui, Oike)
Upper ITO Film) Nitto
F/F Type
Bottom ITO Film) Sekisui, etc
Resistive Type
F/P Type: Nintendo
Nissha
Upper ITO Film) Nitto
F/P Type
SAMPLE
Bottom ITO PC) Teijin
Capacitive Type
GFF, GF2(COP)
Nitto
Mobile Phone, Tablet PC(Apple)
Upper ITO Film) Nitto, Oike, Sekisui
Mobile Phone
Bottom ITO Film) Nitto, Oike, Sekisui
Tablet PC (Galaxy Tab)
www.ihs.com
F/F Type
Resistive Type
J Touch
F/G Type
Small quantity
GFF, GF1
Capacitive Type
Nitto, Oike
GG,G1F
Taoyuan(Taiwan) capa. 6,000K/month,
Hunan (China) 6,000K/month
ITO COP: Sony Chemical
Sony Chemical
Capacitive Type
F/F Type
Camera etc.
ITO Film: Nitto, Oike, Teijin Chemical
Resistive Type
F/F Type
Nitto, Sekisui
Capacitive Type
GF2(SITO), GF1, GFF
Nitto
Resistive Type
F/F, F/G
Upper ITO Film) Nitto,
Bottom ITO Film) Suzutora
ALPS Electric
EELY
Mobile Phone (for Europe, Japan)
Mobile Phone
Navigation
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
35
3.2. ITO film supply chain: Samsung Electronics Co.
‫‏‬
•
In the smartphone sector, Samsung Electronics has been mainly employing active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED)
panels, using on-cell touch AMOLED (OCTA) for its high-end models (e.g.: the Galaxy S4 and the Galaxy Note3). Its various
lower priced LCD models use GFF touch panels.
•
Samsung mainly gets film-type touch panels from Nitto Denko. It partially gets supplies from Max Film Corp. and LG Chem.
•
Samsung holds the biggest market share in the global smartphone market. In the tablet PC market, it holds the second largest
share after Apple Inc. but in the PC sector, its presence isn't noticeable yet. For the AIO PCs using touch panels, it mainly applies
non-ITO films, such as Ag printing film or silver chloride.
ITO film supply chain of Samsung Electronics
Select
SAMPLE
Samsung
www.ihs.com
Transparent
Conductive Film
Touch Panel Makers
(…)
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
36
3.8. Market share of ITO film makers' supplies to touch panel makers
‫‏‬
•
Nitto Denko supplies 70% of its products to Samsung and Apple. OIKE supplies 53% of its products to O-Film, 27% to LG, and the
remainder to China and Taiwan's local companies.
•
LG Chem is supplying products to O-Film and LG Chem. It expects sales to increase from next year as it recently became as a
related company of Samsung. Hanwha L&C Co. has entered the market late, but it is fully operating its lines thanks to its supplies
to O-Film and Top Touch Electronics Co. It is preparing to start operaing a new production line next year.
ITO film maker's supply share by touch panel maker (2013)
Hanwha L&C
SAMPLE
40%
Junhong
15%
LG Chem
35%
www.ihs.com
50%
10%
8%
42%
Oike
25%
8%
42%
53%
Nitto
27%
50%
0%
10%
Samsung
30%
20%
Nissha
20%
30%
O-film
40%
LG
50%
Truly, EELY
60%
10%
17%
70%
Each, Top touch
80%
Gunze
10%
3% 3%
90%
7%
100%
Others
Note: Samsung mostly gets supplies from Nitto Denko, so no other touch panel makers were included here.
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
37
3.10. ITO film price trend
‫‏‬
•
ITO film price is estimated to be about ¥3,300 in 2013. The price is expected to fall continuously amid production expansions by
ITO makers and under price pressure.
•
For reference, GF2-type DITO (double-sided ITO) is estimated to be about 1.5 times more expensive, while the price of COP
(cyclic olefin polymer) base DITO- type ITO film by Nitto Denko, used by Apple, is estimated to be more than three times pricier.
ITO film price trend (¥/sqm)
6,000
5,000
SAMPLE
4,000
www.ihs.com
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Capacitive touch ITO film
5,600
4,000
3,300
2,850
2,560
2,304
2,100
Resistive touch ITO film
3,354
2,851
2,566
2,400
2,280
2,180
1,899
Notes:
Capacitive touch ITO film price is based on GFF-type film of Nitto Denko.
Resistive touch ITO film price is based on FF-type film used in mobile phones.
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
38
IV. ITO glass market and industry trend
Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
ihs.com
1.2. ITO glass market forecast by application: Area, 2012–2017
‫‏‬
•
The ITO glass market for mobile phone is expected to reach about 3 Msqm, making up 29% of the total.
•
This is followed by the market for tablet PC, which will reach 2.1 Msqm in demand, accounting for 20%, and that for notebook PC,
demand is estimated at 1.5 Msqm, or 15%.
•
The market for tablet PC-use controlled 45% of the entire demand in 2012 as some of the Apple iPad adopted GG type until 2013.
ITO glass market forecast by application (Ksqm)
ITO glass market share by application (%)
18,000
100%
16,000
90%
14,000
80%
SAMPLE
12,000
10,000
www.ihs.com
8,000
70%
60%
50%
40%
6,000
30%
4,000
20%
2,000
0
10%
0%
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Others
2,468
1,851
1,997
2,097
2,162
2,302
Others
19%
18%
16%
14%
14%
14%
AIO PC
568
849
883
1,020
1,353
1,646
AIO PC
4%
8%
7%
7%
9%
10%
LCD Monitor
454
1,040
1,454
2,014
1,708
1,674
LCD Monitor
4%
10%
12%
14%
11%
10%
Notebook PC
565
1,523
2,367
3,098
2,953
3,320
Notebook
4%
15%
19%
21%
19%
19%
Tablet PC
5,709
2,103
1,661
1,947
2,308
2,609
Tablet PC
45%
20%
14%
13%
15%
15%
Mobile Phone
2,964
2,989
3,840
4,551
5,054
5,479
Mobile Phone
23%
29%
31%
31%
33%
32%
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
40
1.8. Proportion of ITO glass and transparent conductive film by major application
‫‏‬
Graph title
Tablet
PC
Graph
Mobiletitle
phone
100%
100%
90%
90%
80%
38%
30%
31%
32%
31%
32%
70%
60%
60%
50%
50%
30%
62%
70%
69%
68%
69%
68%
10%
10%
2013
2014
TCF
2015
2016
2017
80%
70%
60%
27%
64%
30%
72%
73%
73%
TCF
2015
2016
2017
31%
2013
2014
2015
2016
SAMPLE
Source: IHS
2017
2012
ITO Glass
www.ihs.com
90%
23%
80%
TCF
© 2013 IHS
Source: IHS
ITO Glass
© 2013 IHS
16%
43%
65%
100%
94%
40%
77%
30%
84%
57%
35%
10%
15%
0%
0%
Source: IHS
2014
40%
20%
20%
39%
2012
2013
50%
85%
0%
2012
50%
40%
10%
53%
62%
48%
59%
45%
69%
60%
85%
50%
20%
47%
38%
52%
41%
55%
30%
70%
61%
87%
0%
100%
27%
89%
10%
100%
28%
90%
47%
Graph
title
Monitor
36%
90%
70%
84%
Graph
AIO
PCtitle
90%
15%
80%
TCF
© 2013 IHS
100%
13%
60%
ITO Glass
Source: IHS
11%
30%
20%
2012
10%
53%
40%
20%
0%
16%
80%
70%
40%
Graph titlePC
Notebook
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
0%
2012
TCF
ITO Glass
© 2013 IHS
Source: IHS
6%
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
ITO Glass
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
41
2. Production line and capacity of ITO glass sensor makers
2.1. Production line and capacity of major makers
‫‏‬
Production line and capacitive of major makers
Maker
Gen.
Size
Location
2013 (K/Month)
Note
TPK
Cando
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
Wintek
HannsTouch
AUO
Innolux
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
42
2.3. Trends in major manufacturers
‫‏‬
AU Optronics Corp.
‫‏‬
•
Its touch panel business kicked into high gear in 2013 as its strategy to bundle sales of LCD and touch panels gained support
from its clients.
•
In particular, with the launch of the eTP, a G2 touch panel with narrow bezel, standard type notebook PC, applied to its own LCD
panel in the second quarter of 2013, its touch panel shipments also surged. If the eTP and LCD panel are purchased together,
AUO will provide them for 20-30% cheaper than other products.
•
AUO is focusing on G2 touch panel for notebook PC and tablet PC in the touch panel business. It plans to mass produce on-cell
and cell G2 type for smartphones in the fourth quarter of 2013.
•
In addition, AUO plans to mass produce on-cell type for tablet PC as early as the first half of 2014 and that for notebook PC in the
second half of next year. The company is trying hard to increase its competitiveness in its core LCD business by integrating it with
the touch panel segment.
•
Currently, it is producing touch sensors by partially modifying some of 5G and 4.5G LCD production lines. Monthly capacity of 5G
www.ihs.com
line is 70 K and that of 4.5G line is about 50 K. (Module processing
lines are located in Xiamen, China.)
SAMPLE
AUO eTP
Source: AUO
AUO eTP specifications
© 2013 IHS
Source: AUO
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
43
Appendix. ITO film technology outline
Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
ihs.com
1. ITO film technology and requirements
1.1. ITO film structure and general manufacturing process
‫‏‬
•
Various films with different functions are laminated together to comprise the ITO film
•
ITO films can be classified into resistive touch and capacitive touch types
•
Capacitive touch type ITO film requirements: low resistance, etching technology
•
Resistive touch type ITO film requirements: durability, high transmittance, low cost
Manufacturing Process of ITO Film
Structure of ITO Film
Clear HC
PET Film
SAMPLE
Anti Newton’s‫‏‬ring
Under Coating (IM)
ITO
Source: IHS
www.ihs.com
Clear HC
Primer Layer
3~7um
0.05~0.5um
PET Film
50~188um
Primer Layer
Anchor coat Layer
ITO Layer
0.05~0.5um
3~7um
0.01~0.05um
© 2013 IHS
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
45
1.6. Touch panel ITO film technology – Touch panel’s requirements and solution
‫‏‬
Touch panel development/requirement points
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
46
Requirements for capacitive-type ITO film
SAMPLE
www.ihs.com
Source: IHS
© 2013 IHS
► Table of contents
© 2013 IHS
Report | Touch Panel-use Transparent Conductive Film Report - 2013
47
For further information, please contact
IHS Customer Care, +1 800 447 2273, +44 (0) 1344 328 300, CustomerCare@ihs.com
Formerly: iSuppli, Screen Digest, Displaybank, and IMS Research
© 2013 IHS. No portion of this report may be reproduced, reused, or otherwise distributed in any form without prior written consent, with the exception of any internal client distribution as may be permitted in the license agreement between client and IHS.
Content reproduced or redistributed with IHS permission must display IHS legal notices and attributions of authorship. The information contained herein is from sources considered reliable but its accuracy and completeness are not warranted, nor are the
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