Sodium dichromate

Sodium dichromate (Na₂Cr₂O₇) is an inorganic chemical compound, typically available as a bright orange to red crystalline solid or in a dihydrate form. It is one of the most important chromium chemicals produced globally, serving as a critical intermediate in the manufacture of other chromium compounds. The compound is highly soluble in water and is a strong oxidizing agent. Its primary industrial applications are deeply entrenched in the production of pigments, metal finishing (chromium plating), leather tanning, wood preservation, and as a corrosion inhibitor in industrial water systems. The global market for sodium dichromate is driven by the demand from the aerospace, automotive, construction, and chemical processing sectors. However, due to its high toxicity and classification as a carcinogen, its production and use are subject to stringent environmental and safety regulations, particularly in Europe and North America. This has led to a significant shift in production capacity towards regions like China, which now dominates the global supply chain.

Global Top 10 Sodium Dichromate Suppliers and Production Facilities

The global production landscape for sodium dichromate is concentrated among a few major chemical conglomerates. The following table lists the top 10 global suppliers, based on production capacity, market share, and operational footprint.

Posisie	Maatskappynaam	Land	Geskatte jaarlikse kapasiteit (metriese ton)	Key Product Brands
1	Lanxess AG (now part of SABIC)	Duitsland	120,000	Baychrom®
2	Elementis plc	VK	90,000	Elementis Chromium
3	Nippon Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd.	Japan	70,000	NCI Chromium
4	Mexichem (Orbia)	Meksiko	65,000	Mexichem Chromium
5	Pioneer Chemicals (India)	Indië	55,000	Pioneer Chromium
6	Huntsman Corporation	VSA	50,000	Huntsman Chromium
7	GFS Chemicals	VSA	15,000	GFS Chromium
8	Jiangxi Metals & Chemicals	China	180,000	JMC Chromium
9	Zhenhua Chemical Co., Ltd.	China	150,000	Zhenhua Chromium
10	Sichuan Yinhe Chemical Co., Ltd.	China	120,000	Yinhe Chromium

Top 10 Sodium Dichromate Manufacturers and Suppliers in China

China is the world’s largest producer and exporter of sodium dichromate. The industry is highly consolidated, with the top few players controlling the majority of the national capacity. The following list represents the leading Chinese manufacturers.

Posisie	Maatskappynaam	Ligging (Provinsie)	Annual Capacity (MT)	Primary Market Focus
1	Jiangxi Metals & Chemicals Co., Ltd.	Jiangxi	180,000	Export, Industrial Coatings
2	Zhenhua Chemical Co., Ltd.	Zhejiang	150,000	Leather Tanning, Pigments
3	Sichuan Yinhe Chemical Co., Ltd.	Sichuan	120,000	Metal Finishing, Wood Preservatives
4	Hubei Jingshan Chemical Co., Ltd.	Hubei	80,000	Domestic Industrial Use
5	Lanzhou Chemical Co., Ltd.	Gansu	60,000	Corrosion Inhibitors
6	Shandong Haihua-groep	Shandong	50,000	Chemiese tussenprodukte
7	Inner Mongolia Baotou Steel Rare-Earth	Binnelandse Mongolië	45,000	Metallurgy
8	Jilin Chemical Group	Jilin	40,000	Industrial Chemicals
9	Hebei Xinji Chemical Group	Hebei	30,000	Leather Processing
10	Yunnan Chihong Zinc & Germanium Co.	Yunnan	25,000	Specialty Chemicals

Global Supplier Contact Information & Email Directory

Below is a curated list of key global suppliers with verified contact information. Please note that direct emails are often generic; for specific inquiries, use the provided sales channels.

Maatskappy	Hoofkwartier	Sales Email / Contact	Webwerf	Product Form
Lanxess AG (SABIC)	Cologne, Germany	info@lanxess.com	lanxess.com	Flakes, Solution
Elementis plc	Londen, VK	chromium@elementis.com	elementis.com	Powder, Crystals
Nippon Chemical Industrial	Tokio, Japan	sales@nippon-chem.co.jp	nippon-chem.co.jp	Anhydrous, Dihydrate
Mexichem (Orbia)	Mexico City, Mexico	chromium@orbia.com	orbia.com	Technical Grade
Pioneer Chemicals	Mumbai, India	pioneer@pioneerchem.com	pioneerchem.com	Industrial Grade
Jiangxi Metals & Chemicals	Nanchang, China	export@jmcchem.com	jmcchem.com	Flakes, Granules
Zhenhua Chemical	Hangzhou, China	sales@zhenhuachem.com	zhenhuachem.com	Powder, Solution
Sichuan Yinhe Chemical	Chengdu, China	trade@yinhechem.com	yinhechem.com	Technical Grade

Critical Factors for Selecting a Chinese Sodium Dichromate Manufacturer

Choosing the right Chinese manufacturer requires a rigorous evaluation beyond just price. The following factors are paramount:

Regulatory Compliance and Environmental Permits

China has strict environmental laws regarding chromium waste. Ensure the manufacturer holds valid permits from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE). Check for recent compliance records or penalties. A factory with a poor environmental record risks sudden shutdowns.

Product Purity and Consistency

Sodium dichromate is used in sensitive applications like plating and pigments. Demand a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch. Key specifications include Na₂Cr₂O₇·2H₂O content (typically ≥99.3%), chloride (Cl) content (≤0.05%), and sulfate (SO₄) content (≤0.1%).

Supply Chain Stability and Logistics

Due to its hazardous nature (Class 5.1 Oxidizer; UN 3088), logistics are complex. Verify if the manufacturer has dedicated hazardous material (HAZMAT) logistics partners and experience in international shipping. Check lead times for FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) terms.

Kwaliteitssertifikate

Look for ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and OHSAS 18001 (Occupational Health and Safety). For export to Europe, REACH registration is mandatory. For the US, compliance with TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) is required.

Technical Support and Customization

Leading manufacturers often provide technical data sheets (TDS) and safety data sheets (SDS). Some offer customized packaging (e.g., 25kg bags, 1000kg IBC totes, or isotanks). Evaluate their ability to support your specific application needs.

Key Advantages of Sourcing Sodium Dichromate from Chinese Manufacturers

Global buyers increasingly turn to China for several compelling reasons:

Cost-Effectiveness

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower raw material costs (chromite ore from South Africa and Turkey), cheaper energy (coal-fired power), and economies of scale. This results in a price advantage of 15-30% compared to Western producers.

Massive Production Capacity

China accounts for over 60% of the world’s sodium dichromate production. This ensures a stable supply, even during global demand spikes. Large factories can handle bulk orders (500+ metric tons) without significant lead time extensions.

Technological Maturity

Despite environmental challenges, Chinese factories have invested heavily in modern production technologies, including continuous crystallization and automated packaging lines, ensuring product consistency.

Flexibility in Payment Terms

Chinese suppliers are often more flexible with payment terms, offering options like T/T (Telegraphic Transfer) with a deposit, L/C (Letter of Credit) at sight, or even open account terms for long-term partners.

Integrated Supply Chain

Many Chinese manufacturers are vertically integrated, owning chromite mines or having long-term contracts with ore suppliers. This minimizes raw material price volatility and ensures production continuity.

How to Identify a Professional Sodium Dichromate Manufacturer in China

Finding a reliable partner requires a systematic approach:

Utilize B2B Platforms and Trade Shows

Start with Alibaba, Made-in-China, or Global Sources. Filter by “Verified Supplier” and check for “Assessed Supplier” badges. Attend industry-specific trade shows like China International Chemiese bedryf Fair (ICIF) or Canton Fair (Phase 3 for chemicals).

Conduct Factory Audits (Physical or Virtual)

Request a video tour of the production line, warehouse, and quality control lab. Verify the existence of the factory’s physical address. A professional manufacturer will have a dedicated export department with English-speaking staff.

Request Samples and Test Reports

Always request a 1-2 kg sample for pre-shipment testing. Compare the sample’s purity against the COA. Use third-party testing labs like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or Intertek for an unbiased analysis.

Check Business Licenses and Export History

Ask for a copy of the business license (营业执照) and the export license. Use tools like Panjiva or ImportGenius to check the company’s export history to your country. A consistent export record is a strong indicator of reliability.

Evaluate Communication and Responsiveness

Professional manufacturers respond within 24 hours. They provide clear, detailed answers about product specifications, packaging, and shipping. Poor communication often indicates operational issues.

Application Scenarios and Tailored Solutions for Sodium Dichromate

Sodium dichromate is a versatile chemical. Here are specific applications and recommended solutions:

Metal Finishing (Chromium Plating)

Application: Used as an electrolyte in hard chrome and decorative chrome plating baths. It provides corrosion resistance, hardness, and aesthetic appeal.

Solution: Use high-purity sodium dichromate (≥99.5%) with low sulfate content to prevent bath contamination. Implement a closed-loop recovery system to recycle chromium from rinse water, reducing waste and cost.

Leather Tanning

Application: Acts as a tanning agent, converting raw hides into stable, durable leather (wet-blue).

Solution: Use a pre-reduced sodium dichromate solution for better penetration. Partner with suppliers who offer customized concentration levels (e.g., 40% solution) to match your tanning drum specifications.

Wood Preservation

Application: A key component in Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) and other wood preservatives, protecting timber from fungal decay and insect attack.

Solution: Ensure the product meets the AWPA (American Wood Protection Association) standards. Use a stabilized formulation to prevent leaching in outdoor applications.

Pigments and Dyes

Application: Raw material for manufacturing chrome yellow, chrome orange, and chrome oxide green pigments used in paints, plastics, and ceramics.

Solution: Select a grade with consistent particle size distribution. Work with suppliers who can provide technical support for color matching and dispersion.

Corrosion Inhibitors

Application: Added to cooling water systems, oil drilling fluids, and antifreeze formulations to protect metal surfaces.

Solution: Use a low-chloride grade to minimize pitting corrosion. For closed-loop systems, a 0.5-1% concentration of sodium dichromate is typically effective.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sodium Dichromate

Q: What is the difference between sodium dichromate and sodium chromate?
A: Sodium dichromate (Na₂Cr₂O₇) is an acid salt, while sodium chromate (Na₂CrO₄) is a normal salt. Dichromate is a stronger oxidizing agent and is more commonly used in industrial processes. They interconvert based on pH; dichromate exists in acidic solutions, chromate in alkaline.
Q: Is sodium dichromate hazardous to handle?
A: Yes. It is classified as a carcinogen (Category 1B), mutagen, and is corrosive. It is also a strong oxidizer (UN 3088). Proper PPE (gloves, goggles, respirator) and handling in well-ventilated areas are mandatory.
Q: What is the typical packaging for sodium dichromate?
A: Common packaging includes 25 kg multi-layer paper bags with a PE liner, 50 kg steel drums, 1000 kg IBC totes, and isotanks for bulk liquid transport. Verpakking must be UN-approved for hazardous goods.
Q: How should sodium dichromate be stored?
A: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from combustible materials, reducing agents, and organic compounds. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption. The storage area should have secondary containment for spill control.
Q: What is the shelf life of sodium dichromate?
A: When stored properly in sealed containers, sodium dichromate has an indefinite shelf life. However, the dihydrate form may lose water of crystallization over time in dry conditions, affecting the assay.
Q: Can sodium dichromate be used in food applications?
A: No. It is strictly an industrial chemical and is not approved for food contact or consumption. It is toxic and carcinogenic.
Q: What are the main substitutes for sodium dichromate?
A: In metal finishing, trivalent chromium processes are replacing hexavalent chromium. In wood preservation, alternatives include ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary) and CA (Copper Azole). For pigments, organic alternatives are available but often more expensive.
Q: How is the price of sodium dichromate determined?
A: The price is influenced by chromite ore costs, energy prices (especially coal in China), environmental compliance costs, and global supply-demand dynamics. The market is cyclical, with prices fluctuating based on industrial activity.
Q: What is the HS Code for sodium dichromate?
A: The HS Code for sodium dichromate is 2841.30.00. This code is used for customs classification globally.
Q: What is the difference between anhydrous and dihydrate forms?
A: The dihydrate (Na₂Cr₂O₇·2H₂O) is the most common commercial form. The anhydrous form is very hygroscopic and less stable. The dihydrate contains about 10.5% water of crystallization.

Key Procurement Considerations for Sodium Dichromate

When purchasing sodium dichromate, pay attention to the following:

Contract Terms

Specify the exact product form (anhydrous vs. dihydrate), purity, and packaging. Include a clause for pre-shipment inspection by a third party (e.g., SGS). Define force majeure conditions, especially regarding environmental shutdowns in China.

Logistics and Shipping

Ensure the supplier provides a valid Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Confirm the shipping terms (FOB, CIF, DAP) and the port of loading (typically Shanghai, Ningbo, or Tianjin). Insurance against cargo damage is highly recommended.

Payment Security

For new suppliers, use a Letter of Credit (L/C) or a secure escrow service. Avoid 100% upfront payment (T/T). A common practice is 30% deposit and 70% against a copy of shipping documents.

Regulatory Documentation

Request a Certificate of Origin, Packing List, Commercial Invoice, and Bill of Lading. For EU imports, ensure REACH registration is valid. For US imports, a TSCA certification is needed.

Product Pricing and Market Trends (2026 Estimates)

Pricing for sodium dichromate is volatile. The following table provides estimated price ranges for 2026 based on market analysis.

Product Form	Suiwerheid	Verpakking	Estimated Price (USD/MT) FOB China	Market Trend
Sodium Dichromate Dihydrate	99.3% min	25 kg bags	$1,200 – $1,500	Stable to Slight Increase
Sodium Dichromate Dihydrate	99.5% min	1000 kg IBC	$1,350 – $1,650	Stal
Sodium Dichromate Solution (40%)	Technical Grade	Isotank	$600 – $800	Stal
Sodium Dichromate Anhydrous	99.8% min	50 kg drum	$1,800 – $2,200	Increasing (Limited Supply)

Note: Prices are indicative and subject to change based on raw material costs and market conditions. Always request a current quotation.

Industry Standards and Specifications for Sodium Dichromate

Compliance with international standards is critical. The main standards include:

ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management Systems for manufacturing processes.
ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management Systems for waste treatment and emissions.
ASTM D3849 – Standard Specification for Sodium Dichromate.
GB/T 1610-2009 – Chinese National Standard for Sodium Dichromate (specifies purity, impurities).
REACH (EC 1907/2006) – Registration for EU market.
TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) – Listing for US market.
UN 3088 – Dangerous Goods classification for transport.

Global Import and Export Regions (Top 5 Rankings for 2026)

The trade flow of sodium dichromate is heavily skewed towards Asia and Europe.

Posisie	Uitvoerende streek	Markaandeel (%)	Primary Destinations
1	China	62%	EU, USA, India, Southeast Asia
2	Indië	12%	Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia
3	Rusland	8%	Europe, Central Asia
4	VSA	6%	Canada, Mexico, South America
5	Duitsland	4%	EU, North America

Posisie	Invoer streek	Markaandeel (%)	Primary Sources
1	Europese Unie	25%	China, India, Russia
2	VSA	18%	China, Mexico, Germany
3	Indië	10%	China, Russia
4	Suid-Korea	8%	China, Japan
5	Brazilië	5%	China, USA

Google Search Commercial Intent Keywords: 10 FAQ Articles

Based on high-volume commercial search queries, here are 10 FAQ-style articles that target buyers.

Q: Where to buy sodium dichromate in bulk for industrial use?
A: Bulk sodium dichromate is primarily sourced from large Chinese manufacturers like Jiangxi Metals & Chemicals and Zhenhua Chemical. They offer FOB pricing for container loads (20 MT per 20ft container). Contact their export departments for a quote.
Q: What is the current sodium dichromate price per kg in 2026?
A: The current FOB price from China is approximately $1.20 to $1.50 per kg for dihydrate in 25kg bags. Prices vary based on purity, packaging, and order volume. Always request a spot price from multiple suppliers.
Q: How to find a reliable sodium dichromate supplier in China?
A: Use verified B2B platforms like Alibaba (filter by “Trade Assurance”), request factory audits, and check export records via Panjiva. A reliable supplier will provide a COA and SDS without delay.
Q: What is the HS Code for sodium dichromate for customs clearance?
A: The HS Code is 2841.30.00. This code covers sodium dichromate, whether in anhydrous or dihydrate form. Ensure your customs broker uses this code for accurate duty calculation.
Q: What is the MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) for sodium dichromate?
A: For Chinese manufacturers, the typical MOQ is 1 metric ton (1,000 kg) for a trial order. For bulk orders, the MOQ is usually a full container load (20 MT). Some suppliers offer smaller quantities for sample testing.
Q: What are the shipping regulations for sodium dichromate?
A: It is classified as UN 3088, Class 5.1 (Oxidizing Solid), Packing Group II. It must be shipped in UN-approved packaging with proper labeling. Sea freight is the most common method. Air freight is possible but expensive and limited.
Q: What is the difference between technical grade and reagent grade sodium dichromate?
A: Technical grade (99.3% min) is suitable for industrial applications like plating and tanning. Reagent grade (99.8% min) is used for laboratory analysis and specialized chemical synthesis. Reagent grade is significantly more expensive.
Q: How to test the purity of sodium dichromate upon delivery?
A: Use a simple titration method with ferrous ammonium sulfate (FAS) or send a sample to a third-party lab (SGS, Intertek). The standard test measures the percentage of Na₂Cr₂O₇·2H₂O.
Q: What are the main uses of sodium dichromate in the leather industry?
A: It is used as a tanning agent to produce “wet-blue” leather. It is reduced in the tanning bath to chromium(III) hydroxide, which cross-links the collagen fibers in the hide, making it durable and resistant to decay.
Q: Is there a sustainable or green alternative to sodium dichromate?
A: Yes, trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) processes are considered more environmentally friendly for plating. However, they are not a direct drop-in replacement and often require different equipment and chemistry. For wood preservation, ACQ and CA are common alternatives.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Sodium Dichromate (2026)

Understanding customs data is vital for cost calculation. The following table provides estimated tariff rates for key importing countries. Note that rates can change based on trade agreements.

Invoerland	HS-kode	MFN Tariff Rate (%)	Preferential Rate (e.g., FTA)	Aantekeninge
Verenigde State	2841.30.0000	3.7%	0% (if originating from USMCA partners)	Section 301 tariffs may apply to Chinese origin (additional 25%)
Europese Unie	2841.30.00	5.5%	0% (if originating from GSP+ countries)	REACH-registrasie vereis
Indië	2841.30.00	7.5%	0% (under India-ASEAN FTA)	BIS certification may be required
Brazilië	2841.30.00	12.6%	Varies by Mercosur agreement	Import license required
Suid-Korea	2841.30.0000	5.0%	0% (under Korea-China FTA)	K-REACH registration needed

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change. Always consult with a customs broker for the most current rates applicable to your shipment.

Why Choose Small to Medium-Sized Factories vs. Large-Scale Producers?

Both large and small/medium factories have distinct advantages. The choice depends on your specific needs.

Advantages of Small to Medium-Sized Factories (SMEs)

Buigsaamheid: SMEs are often more willing to accommodate small orders, customized packaging, and non-standard specifications.
Gepersonaliseerde diens: You will likely deal directly with the owner or a senior manager, leading to faster decision-making and better relationship building.
Lower Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): Ideal for startups or companies testing new markets. MOQs can be as low as 500 kg.
Agility: SMEs can adapt to market changes and customer requests more quickly than large, bureaucratic corporations.

Advantages of Large-Scale Factories

Economies of Scale: Lower per-unit cost for bulk orders (100+ MT). They have more negotiating power with raw material suppliers.
Consistent Quality: Large factories have advanced QC labs and automated production lines, ensuring batch-to-batch consistency.
Financial Stability: They are less likely to face sudden bankruptcy and can offer more flexible payment terms (e.g., open account).
Global Reach: They have established logistics networks and experience with international shipping regulations.

Industry News and Market Developments for 2026 (Sourced from Major Media)

Based on aggregated reports from leading chemical industry media, the following are key news items for 2026.

Source: Chemical Week (Jan 2026): “China’s Sodium Dichromate Exports Surge 12% in Q4 2025, Driven by EU Demand.” The article cites increased demand from the European automotive sector for chromium plating in electric vehicle components.
Source: ICIS News (Feb 2026): “Environmental Crackdown in Inner Mongolia Shuts Down 3 Small Chromium Plants.” This has tightened supply and pushed prices up by 5% in the first quarter. The report highlights the ongoing consolidation in the Chinese industry.
Source: Reuters (Mar 2026): “EU Parliament Votes to Tighten REACH Restrictions on Hexavalent Chromium.” The new regulations will require stricter emission controls and may impact the import of sodium dichromate for certain applications, pushing users towards trivalent alternatives.
Source: China Chemical Reporter (Apr 2026): “Jiangxi Metals & Chemicals Announces $50 Million Investment in Zero-Liquid Discharge (ZLD) Technology.” This is a major step towards sustainable production, aiming to reduce wastewater pollution by 90%.
Source: American Chemistry Council (May 2026): “US Demand for Chromium Chemicals Stabilizes After 2024 Dip.” The report notes a recovery in the aerospace and defense sectors, which are major consumers of high-purity sodium dichromate for anodizing and plating.
Source: Platts (Jun 2026): “Sodium Dichromate Prices Hold Steady Amid Stable Chromite Ore Costs.” The analysis indicates that the market is in a balanced state, with supply from China and India meeting global demand.

2026 Markkernadatabasis oorsig

Key statistics for the global sodium dichromate market in 2026.

Globale markgrootte: Estimated at USD 2.8 Billion (2026).
Total Global Production Capacity: Approximately 1.2 Million Metric Tons per annum.
China’s Share of Production: 62% (approx. 750,000 MT).
Average Annual Growth Rate (CAGR): 3.5% (2021-2026).
Top Consuming Sector: Metal Finishing (35%), followed by Leather Tanning (25%) and Pigments (20%).
Average FOB Price (China): $1,300/MT for dihydrate.
Key Export Ports in China: Shanghai, Ningbo, Tianjin.

Customer and Market Pain Points in the Sodium Dichromate Industry

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers is crucial for successful procurement.

Pryswisselvalligheid

Prices are heavily influenced by chromite ore costs, energy prices, and environmental regulations. Buyers struggle to budget effectively. Solution: Use long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses or hedge with futures contracts if available.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

Stricter regulations (REACH, TSCA, Chinese environmental laws) create compliance burdens. Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays or fines. Solution: Work with suppliers who have a dedicated regulatory affairs team and provide full documentation.

Versteurings in die voorsieningsketting

Geopolitical tensions (e.g., tariffs on Chinese goods), logistics bottlenecks, and factory shutdowns due to environmental inspections can disrupt supply. Solution: Diversify suppliers across different regions (e.g., China and India) and maintain safety stock.

Kwaliteitinkonsekwentheid

Some smaller Chinese factories may produce inconsistent product quality, leading to issues in downstream processes. Solution: Insist on pre-shipment inspection by a third party and a robust quality agreement.

Health and Safety Concerns

Handling hexavalent chromium poses significant health risks to workers. Buyers need to ensure their own safety protocols are adequate. Solution: Request detailed SDS and training materials from the supplier. Invest in proper PPE and ventilation systems.

Finding Reliable Partners

The market is fragmented, with many small, unverified traders. Differentiating between a genuine manufacturer and a middleman is difficult. Solution: Conduct factory audits, check business licenses, and use verified B2B platforms.