Key Insights
The semiconductor cooler market, valued at $3.26 billion in 2025, is experiencing robust growth, projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.40% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The increasing demand for high-performance computing (HPC) systems, particularly in data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) applications, necessitates efficient cooling solutions to prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance. Furthermore, the miniaturization trend in semiconductor technology requires increasingly sophisticated and compact cooling systems. Advancements in cryogenic cooling technologies, such as those utilizing thermoelectric coolers and cryocooler systems, are further driving market expansion. The increasing adoption of advanced packaging techniques in semiconductor manufacturing also contributes to the demand for specialized cooling solutions. Major end-user verticals driving this market include data centers, healthcare (medical imaging and equipment), military (defense electronics), and the transportation sector (electric vehicles and autonomous driving systems).
Competition in the semiconductor cooler market is intense, with key players such as Advanced Research Systems, Janis Research Company, Air Liquide, and Chart Industries vying for market share. These companies are continuously investing in research and development to enhance cooling efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and expand into new applications. The market is also witnessing the emergence of innovative cooling technologies, including liquid cooling, two-phase cooling, and microchannel cooling. However, the high cost of advanced cooling systems and the need for specialized expertise to implement them can pose challenges to market penetration. Nevertheless, the long-term growth outlook for the semiconductor cooler market remains positive, driven by the continued advancements in semiconductor technology and the burgeoning demand for high-performance computing across diverse sectors. Regional growth will likely be strongest in Asia-Pacific, driven by the expanding semiconductor manufacturing industry in the region.

Semiconductor Coolers Industry Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Semiconductor Coolers Industry, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. With a study period spanning 2019-2033 (base year 2025, forecast period 2025-2033), this report meticulously examines market dynamics, growth drivers, key segments, leading players, and emerging opportunities within this rapidly evolving sector. The global market size is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.
Semiconductor Coolers Industry Market Concentration & Dynamics
The Semiconductor Coolers market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with several key players holding significant market share. Market concentration is influenced by factors such as technological advancements, intellectual property rights, and economies of scale. Innovation ecosystems are vibrant, driven by continuous R&D efforts to improve cooling efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Regulatory frameworks, including environmental regulations and safety standards, play a significant role in shaping market dynamics. Substitute products, such as thermoelectric coolers and vapor compression systems, pose competitive pressures. End-user trends, particularly in the rapidly growing sectors of space exploration and advanced computing, are crucial drivers. M&A activities are observed at a moderate pace, with xx major deals recorded between 2019 and 2024. Key players actively pursue strategic partnerships and acquisitions to expand their market reach and technological capabilities.
- Market Share: The top five players collectively hold approximately xx% of the market share.
- M&A Deal Count: An average of xx M&A deals per year were observed during the historical period (2019-2024).
- Innovation Ecosystem: Strong R&D investments and collaborative partnerships are driving innovation in materials science, thermal management techniques, and miniaturization.
- Regulatory Landscape: Stringent environmental regulations and safety standards influence product design and manufacturing processes.
Semiconductor Coolers Industry Industry Insights & Trends
The Semiconductor Coolers market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand from various end-user verticals, including space exploration, healthcare, military, and commercial applications. Technological advancements in materials science and miniaturization are enhancing the efficiency and performance of semiconductor coolers, leading to higher adoption rates. The market size is estimated to be xx Million in 2025, and projected to reach xx Million by 2033. Consumer behavior is increasingly favoring energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions, driving demand for advanced semiconductor coolers. Disruptive technologies, such as advanced refrigerants and novel cooling techniques, are poised to reshape the market landscape. The demand for high-performance computing and data centers is a significant driver of growth, fueling the need for efficient cooling solutions.

Key Markets & Segments Leading Semiconductor Coolers Industry
The Space segment is a key driver of growth in the Semiconductor Coolers market, followed closely by Healthcare and Military applications. These segments are characterized by stringent requirements for reliability, efficiency, and compact size, driving innovation and pushing technological boundaries.
Dominant Regions/Segments:
- Space: High demand for reliable and efficient cooling systems in satellites and spacecraft.
- Drivers: Increased space exploration activities, advancements in satellite technology.
- Healthcare: Growing demand for precise temperature control in medical imaging and therapeutic devices.
- Drivers: Technological advancements in medical imaging and therapeutics, increasing healthcare spending.
- Military: Stringent performance requirements and need for reliable operation in harsh environments.
- Drivers: Defense spending, advanced military technologies.
Detailed Dominance Analysis: The space segment is experiencing the highest growth rate due to increased investments in space exploration and satellite communication. The healthcare segment is driven by the rising adoption of medical imaging and therapeutic devices that require precise temperature control. The military segment benefits from robust defense budgets and the development of advanced military systems.
Semiconductor Coolers Industry Product Developments
Recent advancements in semiconductor cooler technology have focused on miniaturization, improved efficiency, and enhanced reliability. This includes the development of advanced materials, such as high-performance thermoelectric materials and novel refrigerants, leading to smaller, more efficient, and environmentally friendly cooling solutions. These improvements directly translate into better performance in various applications, providing competitive advantages for manufacturers and enhancing the overall value proposition for end-users.
Challenges in the Semiconductor Coolers Industry Market
The Semiconductor Coolers market faces challenges such as high initial investment costs, stringent regulatory compliance requirements, and potential supply chain disruptions. Competition from substitute technologies and the need to maintain high levels of reliability also pose significant hurdles. These factors can influence market growth and profitability, impacting the overall market trajectory. The total estimated impact on market growth due to these challenges is approximately xx%.
Forces Driving Semiconductor Coolers Industry Growth
Key growth drivers include the increasing demand for high-performance computing, rising adoption in various end-user verticals (healthcare, space, military), and technological advancements in materials science and cooling techniques. Favorable government policies supporting green technologies and increasing investments in R&D further fuel market expansion. For instance, the growing adoption of 5G technology and the rise of data centers are significantly increasing the demand for efficient cooling systems.
Long-Term Growth Catalysts in the Semiconductor Coolers Industry Market
Long-term growth will be driven by continued technological innovations, strategic partnerships and collaborations, and expansion into new and emerging markets. The development of advanced materials, improved manufacturing processes, and the integration of smart technologies will play a vital role.
Emerging Opportunities in Semiconductor Coolers Industry
Emerging opportunities include the development of next-generation cooling technologies, expansion into new applications (e.g., electric vehicles), and penetration into emerging markets. The growing adoption of renewable energy and the increasing demand for sustainable technologies create significant opportunities for environmentally friendly semiconductor cooler solutions.
Leading Players in the Semiconductor Coolers Industry Sector
- Advanced Research Systems Inc
- Janis Research Company LLC
- Air Liquide Advanced Technologies
- Cryomech Inc (Bluefors OY)
- Chart Industries Inc
- Eaton Corporation PLC
- Sunpower Inc (AMETEK Inc )
- Sumitomo Heavy Industries Limited
- Ricor Systems
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Stirling Cryogenics BV
- Thales Group
Key Milestones in Semiconductor Coolers Industry Industry
- March 2023: Chart Industries and Nikola Corporation's strategic partnership for liquid hydrogen storage and refueling infrastructure significantly expands the market for cryocooler products in the transportation sector.
- October 2022: Air Liquide's agreement with Avio for a cryogenic tank for the Vega-E launcher highlights the increasing demand for advanced cooling solutions in the space industry.
Strategic Outlook for Semiconductor Coolers Industry Market
The Semiconductor Coolers market holds significant future potential, driven by continuous technological advancements, increasing demand from diverse end-user sectors, and the growing emphasis on sustainable and energy-efficient solutions. Strategic opportunities exist in developing innovative cooling technologies, forging strategic partnerships, and expanding into new markets, particularly in emerging economies and applications. This presents significant opportunities for both established players and new entrants to capture market share and drive industry growth.
Semiconductor Coolers Industry Segmentation
-
1. End-user Vertical
- 1.1. Space
- 1.2. Healthcare
- 1.3. Military
- 1.4. Commercial
- 1.5. Transportation
- 1.6. Other End-user Verticals
Semiconductor Coolers Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. North America
- 2. Europe
- 3. Asia Pacific
- 4. Rest of the World

Semiconductor Coolers Industry REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 6.40% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Growing Medical and Healthcare Services in Developing Economies; Increasing Production of Liquefied Natural Gas
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Performance Constraint of Cryocoolers
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Healthcare to be the Largest End-user Vertical
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 5.1.1. Space
- 5.1.2. Healthcare
- 5.1.3. Military
- 5.1.4. Commercial
- 5.1.5. Transportation
- 5.1.6. Other End-user Verticals
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.2.1. North America
- 5.2.2. Europe
- 5.2.3. Asia Pacific
- 5.2.4. Rest of the World
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 6. North America Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 6.1.1. Space
- 6.1.2. Healthcare
- 6.1.3. Military
- 6.1.4. Commercial
- 6.1.5. Transportation
- 6.1.6. Other End-user Verticals
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 7. Europe Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 7.1.1. Space
- 7.1.2. Healthcare
- 7.1.3. Military
- 7.1.4. Commercial
- 7.1.5. Transportation
- 7.1.6. Other End-user Verticals
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 8. Asia Pacific Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 8.1.1. Space
- 8.1.2. Healthcare
- 8.1.3. Military
- 8.1.4. Commercial
- 8.1.5. Transportation
- 8.1.6. Other End-user Verticals
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 9. Rest of the World Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 9.1.1. Space
- 9.1.2. Healthcare
- 9.1.3. Military
- 9.1.4. Commercial
- 9.1.5. Transportation
- 9.1.6. Other End-user Verticals
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 10. North America Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 10.1.1.
- 11. Europe Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1.
- 12. Asia Pacific Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1.
- 13. Rest of the World Semiconductor Coolers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 13.1.1.
- 14. Competitive Analysis
- 14.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 14.2. Company Profiles
- 14.2.1 Advanced Research Systems Inc
- 14.2.1.1. Overview
- 14.2.1.2. Products
- 14.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.2 Janis Research Company LLC
- 14.2.2.1. Overview
- 14.2.2.2. Products
- 14.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.3 Air Liquide Advanced Technologies
- 14.2.3.1. Overview
- 14.2.3.2. Products
- 14.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.4 Cryomech Inc (Bluefors OY)
- 14.2.4.1. Overview
- 14.2.4.2. Products
- 14.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.5 Chart Industries Inc
- 14.2.5.1. Overview
- 14.2.5.2. Products
- 14.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.6 Eaton Corporation PLC
- 14.2.6.1. Overview
- 14.2.6.2. Products
- 14.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.7 Sunpower Inc (AMETEK Inc )
- 14.2.7.1. Overview
- 14.2.7.2. Products
- 14.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.8 Sumitomo Heavy Industries Limited
- 14.2.8.1. Overview
- 14.2.8.2. Products
- 14.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.9 Ricor Systems
- 14.2.9.1. Overview
- 14.2.9.2. Products
- 14.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.10 Northrop Grumman Corporation
- 14.2.10.1. Overview
- 14.2.10.2. Products
- 14.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.11 Stirling Cryogenics BV
- 14.2.11.1. Overview
- 14.2.11.2. Products
- 14.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.12 Thales Group*List Not Exhaustive
- 14.2.12.1. Overview
- 14.2.12.2. Products
- 14.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.1 Advanced Research Systems Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Europe Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Europe Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Asia Pacific Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Asia Pacific Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Rest of the World Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Rest of the World Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: North America Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by End-user Vertical 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: North America Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by End-user Vertical 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: North America Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: North America Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Europe Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by End-user Vertical 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Europe Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by End-user Vertical 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Europe Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Europe Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Asia Pacific Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by End-user Vertical 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Asia Pacific Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by End-user Vertical 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Rest of the World Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by End-user Vertical 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Rest of the World Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by End-user Vertical 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Rest of the World Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Rest of the World Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Vertical 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Vertical 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Vertical 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Vertical 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Vertical 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global Semiconductor Coolers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Semiconductor Coolers Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 6.40%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Semiconductor Coolers Industry?
Key companies in the market include Advanced Research Systems Inc, Janis Research Company LLC, Air Liquide Advanced Technologies, Cryomech Inc (Bluefors OY), Chart Industries Inc, Eaton Corporation PLC, Sunpower Inc (AMETEK Inc ), Sumitomo Heavy Industries Limited, Ricor Systems, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Stirling Cryogenics BV, Thales Group*List Not Exhaustive.
3. What are the main segments of the Semiconductor Coolers Industry?
The market segments include End-user Vertical.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 3.26 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Growing Medical and Healthcare Services in Developing Economies; Increasing Production of Liquefied Natural Gas.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Healthcare to be the Largest End-user Vertical.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Performance Constraint of Cryocoolers.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
March 2023: Chart Industries and Nikola Corporation, a global leader in zero-emission transportation, energy supply, and infrastructure solutions through their HYLA brand, announced a strategic partnership. This collaboration encompasses the production of liquid hydrogen storage tanks, transport trailers, and the development of mobile and modular hydrogen refueling stations for rapid deployment. Additionally, the agreement entails further cooperation in advancing hydrogen technology for infrastructure and onboard fuel systems in trucks. These investments are set to enhance the company's capacity to generate power from fuel using cryocooler products.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Semiconductor Coolers Industry," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Semiconductor Coolers Industry report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Semiconductor Coolers Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Semiconductor Coolers Industry, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence