Global Artificial Muscle Market Size and Trends

The global artificial muscle market was valued at US$ 2,107 Mn in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 4,671.2 Mn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.7% from 2024 to 2031.

Market- Trends

Miniaturization of devices: As artificial muscles become smaller, it is enabling the possibility of imperceptible prosthetics that could be completely hidden under clothing as well as internal implants that can operate independently without bulky external components. This opens up new opportunities for assistive devices to help restore natural movement for amputees or those with limited mobility. It also helps advance less invasive surgical techniques. For example, in 2023, according to a report published by the U.S. FDA on the use of surgical robots, there was a 25% rise in the number of robotic surgeries using systems like da Vinci that utilize miniature wrists and joints. The reduced size of these robots allows for smaller incisions and faster recovery times for patients.

Development of self-powered systems: This trend towards self-powered artificial muscles is revolutionizing the sector as it makes these technologies significantly more practical and user-friendly. Not having to change or recharge batteries means self-powered muscles that can be relied upon to function continuously for extended periods. This opens up new opportunities for applications such as soft robotic exoskeletons that assist with physical rehabilitation or prosthetics that restore near-natural movement. Not having to manage an external power source reduces maintenance needs and improves portability. With self-powered systems, artificial muscles can be made lighter and less bulky as they do not need to accommodate heavy batteries.

Integration of smart technologies: Integration of smart technologies is having a significant influence on the artificial muscle market. With advances in fields like biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, robotics and 3D printing, researchers are able to develop innovative artificial muscle designs that closely mimic the properties of natural human muscle. One example is the development of conductive polymer artificial muscles. Conductive polymers have contractile properties that allow them to shrink or expand in response to electrical stimulation. Researchers are working on improving conductive polymer formulations and fabrication techniques to create artificial muscles with high strength, flexibility and life-like movement capabilities. Several academic research labs have demonstrated conductive polymer-based artificial muscles that can lift weights, provide assistance to disabled individuals and power soft robotic designs. This research is expected to translate into smart prosthetics and orthotics with more natural movement and lifelike feel as compared to traditional powered devices.