Aluminum Alloys

Aluminum Alloys Market Outlook

The global aluminum alloys market is projected to reach approximately USD 200 billion by 2035, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. This significant growth can be attributed to the rising demand for lightweight materials in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction, where aluminum alloys are increasingly preferred due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratios. Additionally, the growing emphasis on fuel efficiency and sustainability drives the adoption of aluminum alloys as they help reduce vehicle weight and improve energy efficiency. The expansion of the construction sector, particularly in emerging economies, further complements the increasing consumption of aluminum alloys for structural applications. Moreover, technological advancements in alloy formulations are enabling the development of specialized aluminum alloys that cater to specific industry needs, thereby fostering further market growth.

Growth Factor of the Market

The growth of the aluminum alloys market is largely driven by the expansive applications across various industries, particularly in automotive and aerospace sectors, where the need for lightweight and high-strength materials is paramount. The automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) has significantly boosted the demand for aluminum alloys, as they contribute to overall vehicle weight reduction, thus enhancing battery efficiency and range. Furthermore, the construction industry is witnessing a surge in demand for aluminum due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal, making it a preferred choice for building facades, roofing, and other applications. Additionally, increasing investments in infrastructure development, especially in developing regions, are propelling the demand for aluminum alloys in construction projects. The growing trend of recycling aluminum to reduce environmental impact and improve sustainability is also a key factor supporting market growth, as recycled aluminum requires less energy to produce and has a smaller carbon footprint.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The aluminum alloys market is projected to reach USD 200 billion by 2035.
• Automotive and aerospace sectors are the primary drivers of demand for aluminum alloys.
• Expanding construction activities in emerging economies are contributing to market growth.
• Technological advancements are leading to the development of specialized aluminum alloys.
• Increased focus on sustainability and recycling is shaping market dynamics.

By Product Type

Wrought Alloys:

Wrought alloys are a significant segment of the aluminum alloys market, accounting for a substantial share due to their versatility and ability to be shaped into various forms through mechanical processes such as rolling, extruding, and forging. These alloys are widely used in applications where high strength and ductility are required, making them ideal for automotive and aerospace components. The 6000 and 7000 series, particularly, are known for their excellent corrosion resistance and weldability, leading to their increased adoption in structural applications, including bridges and buildings. The continuous innovation in wrought alloys, resulting in improved performance characteristics, is further driving their demand across various sectors.

Cast Alloys:

Cast alloys are another essential segment within the aluminum alloys market, characterized by their ability to be formed by pouring molten metal into molds. This method allows for the production of complex shapes that are difficult to achieve with wrought alloys, making cast alloys particularly useful in the automotive and aerospace industries for manufacturing engine blocks, transmission cases, and other intricate components. The 2000 and 3000 series cast alloys are favored for their strength and thermal conductivity, further enhancing their application in high-performance environments. The rising demand for lightweight and durable components continues to drive the growth of the cast alloys segment.

Heat-Treatable Alloys:

Heat-treatable alloys are recognized for their superior mechanical properties, achieved through a heat treatment process that enhances strength and hardness. These alloys are favored in applications that require high strength-to-weight ratios, such as aerospace components and high-performance automotive parts. The 7000 series of heat-treatable alloys, in particular, is renowned for its exceptional strength and is extensively used in aircraft structures. The increasing focus on lightweight materials to improve fuel efficiency in transportation is driving the adoption of heat-treatable alloys significantly.

Non-Heat-Treatable Alloys:

Non-heat-treatable alloys are designed to achieve their mechanical properties primarily through work hardening, making them a popular choice for applications where formability and corrosion resistance are essential. Commonly used in architectural applications, packaging, and consumer goods, these alloys offer good weldability and can be easily shaped into various forms. The 5000 series is particularly well-regarded for its excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for marine applications. The growth in construction and packaging industries is positively influencing the demand for non-heat-treatable alloys.

High-Strength Alloys:

High-strength aluminum alloys represent a crucial segment within the market, known for their ability to withstand harsh conditions while maintaining structural integrity. These alloys find extensive use in aerospace applications, where safety and performance are paramount. With the increasing demand for lightweight, high-performance materials in aircraft design, the adoption of high-strength alloys is on the rise. The 7000 series is often used in military and commercial aerospace applications due to its high tensile strength and fatigue resistance, further highlighting the role high-strength alloys play in the aerospace sector.

By Application

Automotive:

The automotive industry is one of the largest consumers of aluminum alloys, utilizing them for a wide range of components due to their lightweight properties and strength. With manufacturers increasingly focusing on fuel efficiency and emissions reduction, aluminum alloys are being adopted to replace heavier materials like steel. This shift is especially notable in electric vehicles, where reducing overall vehicle weight is crucial for improving battery range and performance. The trend towards hybrid and electric vehicles is expected to drive further demand for aluminum alloys in the automotive sector, as manufacturers strive to meet stringent regulations and consumer preferences for sustainable options.

Aerospace:

Aluminum alloys are vital in the aerospace industry for their high strength-to-weight ratio, which is essential for improving fuel efficiency and performance. Components such as wings, fuselage, and other structural parts are often made from aluminum alloys, particularly from the 7000 series, which offers exceptional mechanical properties. The growth in air travel and the subsequent demand for new aircraft are propelling the need for lightweight materials in aerospace applications. Additionally, advancements in alloy technology and manufacturing processes are leading to the development of specialized aluminum products tailored for specific aerospace applications, further enhancing market prospects.

Construction:

The construction industry has been increasingly utilizing aluminum alloys for various structural applications due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to corrosion. Aluminum is often used in building facades, roofing, window frames, and other architectural elements. The trend towards sustainable and energy-efficient buildings is also driving the demand for aluminum alloys, as they contribute to reducing the overall weight of structures while maintaining strength and integrity. With ongoing infrastructure development projects globally, the construction sector is expected to remain a critical contributor to the growth of the aluminum alloys market.

Packaging:

In the packaging industry, aluminum alloys play a vital role due to their excellent barrier properties, lightweight nature, and recyclability. Aluminum is widely used for food and beverage packaging, including cans and foil, providing a sustainable solution to meet consumer demands for recyclable materials. The growing awareness regarding environmental issues and the shift towards sustainable packaging are boosting the demand for aluminum alloys in this sector. As manufacturers strive to reduce packaging waste and enhance recyclability, aluminum foil and cans are increasingly becoming the materials of choice, further propelling market growth.

Electrical:

The electrical application of aluminum alloys is predominantly seen in the manufacturing of electrical conductors, components, and enclosures. Aluminum's lightweight nature, coupled with its excellent electrical conductivity, makes it an ideal material for overhead power lines and other electrical infrastructure. The growing demand for renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind power, is driving the increased use of aluminum alloys in electrical applications as they are utilized in various components of solar panels and wind turbines. As global energy demands rise and the transition to cleaner energy solutions continues, the electrical sector will significantly influence the aluminum alloys market's growth.

By Distribution Channel

Direct Sales:

Direct sales represent a significant distribution channel for aluminum alloys, allowing manufacturers to establish direct relationships with customers, including large-scale industries and corporations. This approach helps in providing tailored solutions based on customer specifications and requirements, ensuring an efficient supply chain. Direct sales channels facilitate better communication between manufacturers and customers, enabling quicker response times to market demands and preferences. Furthermore, this model can lead to cost savings for both parties, as it eliminates intermediaries and provides opportunities for bulk purchasing, which is particularly beneficial for large-scale industrial applications.

Distributors:

The distributor channel is vital in expanding the reach of aluminum alloys to smaller businesses and various industries that may not connect directly with manufacturers. Distributors typically hold large inventories of different types and grades of aluminum alloys, making them an accessible option for customers looking for specific materials without the need for large orders. By leveraging their established networks and logistical capabilities, distributors can ensure timely delivery and support to customers across various regions. This distribution model is especially important in ensuring that smaller manufacturers and businesses have access to the wide variety of aluminum alloys required for their operations.

Online Retail:

Online retail has emerged as a growing distribution channel for aluminum alloys, particularly as businesses increasingly turn to digital platforms for sourcing materials. The convenience and efficiency of online purchasing allow customers to browse available products, compare prices, and place orders from the comfort of their own facilities. E-commerce platforms provide a broader selection of aluminum alloys, including niche and specialty products, that may not be readily available through traditional channels. Furthermore, the ability to source materials quickly and efficiently through online retail is contributing to the overall growth of the aluminum alloys market, particularly among smaller businesses and startups that require flexibility and speed in their supply chain.

By Ingredient Type

Silicon:

Silicon is a crucial ingredient in the formulation of aluminum alloys, providing enhanced fluidity during casting and improving the overall mechanical properties of the final product. The inclusion of silicon in aluminum alloys helps in reducing shrinkage and improving the corrosion resistance of the alloy, making it ideal for applications in automotive and aerospace industries. With the growing demand for lightweight and high-performance materials, the use of silicon as an alloying element is expected to rise, further driving the market for aluminum alloys.

Copper:

Copper is another important ingredient used in aluminum alloys, primarily known for its ability to improve strength and corrosion resistance. Alloys that contain copper are often utilized in applications requiring high strength, such as aircraft structures and automotive components. The increasing focus on lightweight, high-performance materials in the aerospace sector is likely to drive the demand for copper-containing aluminum alloys, especially in applications where fatigue resistance is critical.

Magnesium:

Magnesium is a key alloying element in aluminum alloys, known for enhancing strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance. The addition of magnesium is particularly prevalent in the 5000 series alloys, which are widely used in marine applications due to their excellent resistance to seawater corrosion. As the demand for lightweight materials grows across various industries, particularly in transportation and construction, magnesium-containing aluminum alloys are expected to witness significant growth due to their superior performance characteristics.

Zinc:

Zinc is utilized in aluminum alloys to improve strength and resistance to corrosion, particularly in the 7000 series alloys. These alloys are extensively used in aerospace and military applications, where high strength and lightweight materials are critical. The increasing demand for high-performance materials in these sectors is anticipated to drive the growth of zinc-containing aluminum alloys. Additionally, as technological advancements continue to enhance the properties of these alloys, their application in emerging industries is likely to expand further.

Manganese:

Manganese is often added to aluminum alloys to improve corrosion resistance, strength, and formability. Its inclusion is particularly common in the 3000 series of aluminum alloys, which are widely used in packaging, construction, and electrical applications. The growing emphasis on sustainability and the need for materials that can withstand harsh environments are driving the demand for manganese-containing aluminum alloys. As industries continue to focus on reducing their environmental impact, manganese-based alloys are likely to see increased adoption.

By Region

The North America region holds a substantial share of the aluminum alloys market, driven primarily by the robust automotive and aerospace sectors. The presence of leading automotive manufacturers and aerospace companies in countries such as the United States and Canada has fueled the demand for high-quality aluminum alloys. The market in North America is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 4.5% during the forecast period, supported by increasing investments in infrastructure and a growing emphasis on lightweight materials for vehicle production. Additionally, the trend towards electric vehicles, which require more aluminum components, is expected to further boost market growth in this region.

In Europe, the aluminum alloys market is also witnessing significant growth, largely due to stringent regulations regarding emissions and fuel efficiency in the automotive sector. Countries like Germany and France are at the forefront of adopting aluminum alloys to enhance the performance of vehicles and reduce environmental impact. The presence of leading aerospace manufacturers further contributes to the strong demand for aluminum alloys in Europe. The European market is expected to grow at a healthy pace, reflecting a trend towards sustainable materials and innovative manufacturing processes that prioritize lightweight solutions.

Opportunities

The aluminum alloys market is poised for numerous growth opportunities, particularly in the context of sustainable manufacturing and recycling initiatives. As industries continue to face pressure to minimize their environmental impact, the demand for recycled aluminum alloys is on the rise. Recycled aluminum requires significantly less energy to produce compared to primary aluminum, presenting a compelling opportunity for manufacturers to develop more sustainable practices. The increasing availability of recycling facilities and advancements in recycling technologies are expected to foster the growth of recycled aluminum alloys, further driving market expansion. Furthermore, as companies aim to meet regulatory requirements and consumer preferences for eco-friendly products, the integration of sustainable practices into the production of aluminum alloys will create a competitive advantage and open new market avenues.

Additionally, the ongoing advancements in alloy technology present exciting opportunities for market players. The development of advanced aluminum alloys with improved performance characteristics, such as enhanced strength, corrosion resistance, and heat resistance, will expand their applicability across various sectors. Innovations in manufacturing techniques, such as additive manufacturing and advanced casting methods, are enabling the production of highly specialized aluminum alloys that cater to specific industry needs. As industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction continue to seek innovative solutions, the aluminum alloys market will benefit from the growing demand for high-performance materials that can meet the evolving requirements of modern applications.

Threats

Despite the promising growth outlook for the aluminum alloys market, several threats could hinder its progress. One of the primary challenges is the volatility of raw material prices, particularly for aluminum and its alloying elements. Fluctuations in the prices of raw materials can significantly impact production costs and profit margins for manufacturers, leading to uncertainties in pricing strategies and market competitiveness. Additionally, the global supply chain disruptions experienced recently due to geopolitical tensions and pandemics may pose risks to the consistent supply of aluminum alloys, impacting production schedules and delivery timelines. Manufacturers may face difficulties in accessing raw materials, which could lead to increased lead times and customer dissatisfaction.

Another significant threat to the aluminum alloys market is the growing competition from alternative materials, such as carbon fiber and high-strength steel. These materials offer comparable or enhanced properties for specific applications, potentially diverting demand away from aluminum alloys. Industries that prioritize high-performance materials may increasingly turn to these alternatives, particularly in sectors like aerospace and automotive, where weight reduction and performance are critical. As a result, aluminum alloy manufacturers must continuously innovate and improve their products to maintain their market share and address the challenges posed by emerging materials.

Competitor Outlook

• Alcoa Corporation
• Rio Tinto Group
• Novelis Inc.
• Constellium N.V.
• Kaiser Aluminum Corporation
• Arconic Corporation
• UACJ Corporation
• Southwest Aluminum (Group) Co., Ltd.
• China Hongqiao Group Limited
• Amcor plc
• Aluminum Corporation of China Limited (CHALCO)
• Hydro Extruded Solutions
• Fujian Yongjing Technology Co., Ltd.
• Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba)
• Jindal Aluminium Limited
• Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co., Ltd.

The competitive landscape of the aluminum alloys market is characterized by a mix of global and regional players, each seeking to capitalize on the growing demand for lightweight and high-performance materials. Major companies in this sector are focusing on product innovation and technological advancements to differentiate themselves in a highly competitive environment. Key players like Alcoa Corporation and Rio Tinto Group are investing heavily in research and development to enhance their product offerings and cater to specific industry applications. These companies are also expanding their production capacities to meet rising global demand, particularly in emerging markets where infrastructure and automotive development are booming.

In addition to innovation, strategic partnerships and collaborations are increasingly becoming a common approach among market players to enhance their market presence and create synergies. For instance, Novelis Inc. and Constellium N.V. have formed alliances with automotive manufacturers to develop customized aluminum solutions for electric vehicles. Such collaborations not only strengthen their competitive positioning but also enable them to respond swiftly to changing market dynamics and customer preferences. Moreover, companies are also emphasizing sustainability initiatives by investing in recycling facilities and adopting eco-friendly practices in their production processes, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and businesses alike.

Moreover, the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing a surge in aluminum alloy production due to the rapid industrialization and urbanization in countries like China and India. Companies such as China Hongqiao Group Limited and Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co., Ltd. are prominent players in this market, focusing on expanding their capacities and investing in advanced manufacturing technologies. The competitive rivalry in this region is intensifying, driven by the burgeoning demand from automotive, construction, and packaging sectors. As the market continues to evolve, the ability of companies to innovate, adapt, and maintain sustainable practices will play a crucial role in determining their success in the aluminum alloys landscape.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 Amcor plc
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 Novelis Inc.
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 Rio Tinto Group
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 Constellium N.V.
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 UACJ Corporation
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 Alcoa Corporation
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 Arconic Corporation
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 Hydro Extruded Solutions
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 Jindal Aluminium Limited
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 Kaiser Aluminum Corporation
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 China Hongqiao Group Limited
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba)
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co., Ltd.
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 Fujian Yongjing Technology Co., Ltd.
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Southwest Aluminum (Group) Co., Ltd.
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.16 Aluminum Corporation of China Limited (CHALCO)
    • 5.16.1 Business Overview
    • 5.16.2 Products & Services
    • 5.16.3 Financials
    • 5.16.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.16.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Aluminum Alloys Market, By Application
    • 6.1.1 Automotive
    • 6.1.2 Aerospace
    • 6.1.3 Construction
    • 6.1.4 Packaging
    • 6.1.5 Electrical
  • 6.2 Aluminum Alloys Market, By Product Type
    • 6.2.1 Wrought Alloys
    • 6.2.2 Cast Alloys
    • 6.2.3 Heat-Treatable Alloys
    • 6.2.4 Non-Heat-Treatable Alloys
    • 6.2.5 High-Strength Alloys
  • 6.3 Aluminum Alloys Market, By Ingredient Type
    • 6.3.1 Silicon
    • 6.3.2 Copper
    • 6.3.3 Magnesium
    • 6.3.4 Zinc
    • 6.3.5 Manganese
  • 6.4 Aluminum Alloys Market, By Distribution Channel
    • 6.4.1 Direct Sales
    • 6.4.2 Distributors
    • 6.4.3 Online Retail

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.1.1 By Country
      • 10.1.1.1 UK
      • 10.1.1.2 France
      • 10.1.1.3 Germany
      • 10.1.1.4 Spain
      • 10.1.1.5 Italy
  • 10.2 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 India
      • 10.2.1.2 China
      • 10.2.1.3 Japan
      • 10.2.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.3 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.3.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.3.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.4 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 USA
      • 10.4.1.2 Canada
  • 10.5 Aluminum Alloys Market by Region
  • 10.6 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.6.1 By Country
      • 10.6.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.6.1.2 Africa

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Aluminum Alloys market is categorized based on

By Product Type

• Wrought Alloys
• Cast Alloys
• Heat-Treatable Alloys
• Non-Heat-Treatable Alloys
• High-Strength Alloys

By Application

• Automotive
• Aerospace
• Construction
• Packaging
• Electrical

By Distribution Channel

• Direct Sales
• Distributors
• Online Retail

By Ingredient Type

• Silicon
• Copper
• Magnesium
• Zinc
• Manganese

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Key Players

• Alcoa Corporation
• Rio Tinto Group
• Novelis Inc.
• Constellium N.V.
• Kaiser Aluminum Corporation
• Arconic Corporation
• UACJ Corporation
• Southwest Aluminum (Group) Co., Ltd.
• China Hongqiao Group Limited
• Amcor plc
• Aluminum Corporation of China Limited (CHALCO)
• Hydro Extruded Solutions
• Fujian Yongjing Technology Co., Ltd.
• Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba)
• Jindal Aluminium Limited
• Shandong Nanshan Aluminum Co., Ltd.