The European anhydrite market continues to expand steadily, driven by structural changes in the construction sector and the ongoing reduction in FGD gypsum supply. According to Mordor Intelligence, natural anhydrite (CaSO₄) is becoming a key mineral for cement, self‑levelling screeds and industrial mixtures across the EU.
Source: Mordor Intelligence — Anhydrite Market Report
Europe shifts from FGD gypsum to natural anhydrite
The closure of coal‑fired power plants across the EU has sharply reduced the availability of FGD gypsum (flue‑gas‑desulphurisation gypsum) — traditionally used as a sulfate component in cement and screed formulations. This has created a structural supply gap, now increasingly filled by natural anhydrite.
Key trends highlighted by analysts:
- rising demand for natural CaSO₄ in Germany, France and Poland;
- expansion of anhydrite‑based self‑levelling screed production in Spain and Italy;
- stable growth in the cement segment, where anhydrite replaces part of the gypsum in CEM II and CEM IV formulations.
Construction sector: anhydrite screeds gain momentum
Across Europe, anhydrite screeds continue to grow in popularity due to:
- high thermal conductivity (ideal for underfloor heating systems),
- low shrinkage,
- fast strength development,
- stable pricing compared to cement‑based screeds.
Manufacturers of dry‑mix products are expanding their portfolios with natural‑anhydrite‑based formulations.
Cement sector: anhydrite as a key sulfate regulator
European cement plants are increasing the use of anhydrite as a sulfate regulator in CEM II and CEM IV cement types. Drivers include:
- reduced availability of FGD gypsum,
- stable supply of natural CaSO₄,
- the need for precise setting‑time control.
Anhydrite ensures consistent hydration behaviour and stable cement performance.
Industrial mixtures and gypsum‑based products
Producers of gypsum boards, dry‑mix mortars and specialty industrial materials are increasing the use of anhydrite as:
- a stabiliser,
- a moisture regulator,
- a component for high‑purity industrial applications.
Synthetic anhydrite, produced as a by‑product of chemical processes, is also gaining traction in Europe.
Logistics and production capacity
Across Europe, the market shows:
- stable natural‑anhydrite extraction,
- modernisation of grinding and drying lines,
- expansion of CaSO₄ storage and logistics hubs in France, Spain and Poland.
These investments aim to stabilise supply and improve product quality.
Conclusions
- The European anhydrite market shows steady growth, driven by construction and industrial mixtures.
- The decline of FGD gypsum is accelerating the structural shift toward natural anhydrite.
- Anhydrite is becoming a core component in cement systems, screeds and industrial products.
- Producers are investing in modernisation and capacity expansion to meet rising demand.