Demand for pharmaceutical packaging in the US is forecast to increase 5.3 percent annually through 2014. Gains will be driven by recently upgraded regulations and standards that will boost demand for high value-added containers and accessories. Parenteral containers and labels will be among the fastest growing types.

Global roofing demand will grow 3.1 percent annually through 2014. China alone will claim over a third of all new demand, strengthening its position as the largest roofing market in area terms. Concrete tiles will be the fastest growing type based on its dominance in developing Asian nations.

Global demand for cast polymers is projected to increase 8.7 percent annually through 2014. About sixty percent of the gains will be from China, with its quickly developing domestic cast polymer industry and considerable construction sector. Engineered quartz and marble will grow the fastest.

Global demand for drywall is forecast to advance 8.4 percent annually through 2014. Over four-fifths of new demand will be attributable to the US and the Asia/Pacific region. The residential market will outpace its nonresidential counterpart. Global building plaster demand will advance 5.3 percent annually.

Demand for water and wastewater pipe in the US is expected to rise 5.8 percent annually through 2014. Copper pipe will be the fastest growing product while plastic pipe remains dominant. Building construction will be the fastest growing market, with potable water applications leading gains.

US demand for insulation materials will rise 7.4 percent annually through 2014, driven by a recovery in residential construction. Fiberglass insulation will offer the best growth opportunities and will surpass foamed plastic as the largest segment in value terms by 2014. Cellulose insulation will post the fastest growth from a small base.

US tube and stick packaging demand will rise 5.1 percent annually through 2014. The fastest gains are expected for stick packs, driven by advantages of product differentiation, portability and material savings compared to conventional single-portion pouches. The dominant squeeze tube segment will slightly lag the overall industry.

US demand for cast polymers will increase 5.4 percent annually through 2014, driven in part by gains in market share over laminates in countertops. Solid surface will remain the most common cast polymer, while engineered stone will grow the fastest. The countertop market will remain dominant.

US foodservice packaging demand will climb 2.5 percent annually through 2014. Flexible packaging will outpace rigid based on cost, convenience and performance advantages. Restaurants other than quick service types will post the fastest growth within the dominant eating and drinking places market.

US demand for oil and gas well stimulation materials is projected to increase 14 percent annually through 2014. Gains will be buoyed by renewed efforts to reduce dependence on foreign energy sources. The largest segment, proppants, will also be one of the fastest growing, along with gases and other materials.