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hydrofluoric acid
📑 Table of Contents
- 📄 Introduction to Hydrofluoric Acid
- 📄 Global Top 10 Hydrofluoric Acid Suppliers and Factories
- 📄 China's Top 10 Hydrofluoric Acid Suppliers and Factories
- 📄 Global Supplier Introduction Form with Contact Emails
- 📄 Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer
- └ 📌 Quality Certifications and Standards
- └ 📌 Production Capacity and Consistency
- └ 📌 Safety and Regulatory Compliance
- └ 📌 Logistics and Packaging
- └ 📌 Pricing and Payment Terms
- 📄 Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages
- └ 📌 Cost Efficiency
- └ 📌 Large-Scale Production
- └ 📌 Technological Advancements
- └ 📌 Established Export Infrastructure
- 📄 How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China?
- └ 📌 Online B2B Platforms
- └ 📌 Industry Trade Shows
- └ 📌 Third-Party Audits
- └ 📌 Government and Association Directories
- 📄 Application Scenarios and Solutions
- 📄 Frequently Asked Questions (10 Items)
- 📄 Procurement Precautions
- └ 📌 Legal and Documentation Compliance
- └ 📌 Quality Assurance Protocols
- └ 📌 Packaging and Labeling Standards
- └ 📌 Insurance and Liability
- 📄 Product Quotation Guide
- 📄 Industry Standards
- 📄 Global Import and Export Region Ranking (Top 5)
- 📄 Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers
- 📄 Customs Data and Tariff Rates
- 📄 Why Choose Small and Medium Factories? Differences from Large Factories
- └ 📌 Advantages of Small and Medium Factories (SMEs)
- └ 📌 Advantages of Large Factories
- └ 📌 Key Differences
- 📄 2026 News Summary from Major Media Sources
- └ 📌 Global HF Market Growth Projection
- └ 📌 China's Export Restrictions on Fluorspar
- └ 📌 New HF Production Facility in India
- └ 📌 EU REACH Updates for HF Imports
- └ 📌 US Tariff Changes on Chinese HF
- 📄 2026 Market Core Data Overview
- 📄 Customer and Market Pain Points
Introduction to Hydrofluoric Acid
Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a highly corrosive, inorganic acid derived from the mineral fluorite (calcium fluoride). It is a solution of hydrogen fluoride in water, known for its unique ability to etch glass and react with silica compounds. Unlike other mineral acids, HF is a weak acid in dilute solutions but possesses extreme toxicity and reactivity, making it a critical yet dangerous chemical in industrial applications. Its primary uses include the production of fluorocarbons, aluminum smelting (as a precursor to aluminum fluoride), petroleum alkylation, uranium processing, and semiconductor etching. The global hydrofluoric acid market is driven by demand from the refrigeration, electronics, and automotive industries, with stringent safety regulations governing its production and handling.
Global Top 10 Hydrofluoric Acid Suppliers and Factories
The global HF market is dominated by large chemical conglomerates and specialized manufacturers. The following ranking is based on production capacity, revenue, and market influence as of 2025.
| Rank | Company Name | Headquarters | Annual Production Capacity (Metric Tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honeywell International Inc. | USA | 180,000+ |
| 2 | Solvay S.A. | Belgium | 150,000+ |
| 3 | Daikin Industries, Ltd. | Japan | 140,000+ |
| 4 | Mitsubishi Chemical Group | Japan | 120,000+ |
| 5 | Arkema S.A. | France | 110,000+ |
| 6 | Mexichem (Orbia) | Mexico | 100,000+ |
| 7 | Navin Fluorine International Ltd. | India | 80,000+ |
| 8 | Gujarat Fluorochemicals Ltd. | India | 75,000+ |
| 9 | Sinochem Lantian Co., Ltd. | China | 70,000+ |
| 10 | SRF Limited | India | 65,000+ |
China’s Top 10 Hydrofluoric Acid Suppliers and Factories
China is the world’s largest producer of hydrofluoric acid, accounting for over 60% of global capacity. The following list highlights the leading Chinese manufacturers based on output and quality.
| Rank | Company Name | Location | Annual Capacity (Metric Tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zhejiang Juhua Co., Ltd. | Zhejiang | 120,000+ |
| 2 | Shandong Dongyue Chemical Co., Ltd. | Shandong | 100,000+ |
| 3 | Sinochem Lantian Co., Ltd. | Zhejiang | 90,000+ |
| 4 | Do-Fluoride Chemicals Co., Ltd. | Henan | 80,000+ |
| 5 | Shaowu Huaxin Chemical Co., Ltd. | Fujian | 60,000+ |
| 6 | Yunnan Fluorine Chemical Co., Ltd. | Yunnan | 55,000+ |
| 7 | Fujian Yongjing Chemical Co., Ltd. | Fujian | 50,000+ |
| 8 | Jiangxi Olin Fluorine Chemical Co., Ltd. | Jiangxi | 45,000+ |
| 9 | Linhai Xinghua Chemical Co., Ltd. | Zhejiang | 40,000+ |
| 10 | Hunan Nonferrous Fluoride Chemical Co., Ltd. | Hunan | 35,000+ |
Global Supplier Introduction Form with Contact Emails
Below is a curated list of verified global suppliers with official contact information for procurement inquiries.
| Company | Product Grade | Email Contact | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honeywell (USA) | Electronic Grade, Anhydrous | hf.sales@honeywell.com | www.honeywell.com |
| Solvay (Belgium) | Industrial Grade, High Purity | solvay.hf@solvay.com | www.solvay.com |
| Daikin (Japan) | Ultra-Pure Grade | chemicals@daikin.com | www.daikinchemicals.com |
| Arkema (France) | Anhydrous, Aqueous | hf.arkema@arkema.com | www.arkema.com |
| Navin Fluorine (India) | Technical Grade, ACS Grade | sales@navinfluorine.com | www.navinfluorine.com |
| Zhejiang Juhua (China) | Industrial, Electronic | export@juhua.com | www.juhua.com |
| Shandong Dongyue (China) | Anhydrous, Aqueous | trade@dongyuechem.com | www.dongyuechem.com |
| Gujarat Fluorochemicals (India) | Refrigeration Grade | info@gfl.co.in | www.gfl.co.in |
| Mexichem (Mexico) | Industrial Grade | hf.supply@mexichem.com | www.mexichem.com |
| SRF Limited (India) | Technical Grade | hf@srf.com | www.srf.com |
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer
Quality Certifications and Standards
Ensure the manufacturer holds ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001 certifications. For electronic-grade HF, look for SEMI standards compliance. Request Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and batch analysis reports before purchase.
Production Capacity and Consistency
Verify annual output and ability to scale. Large plants like Zhejiang Juhua offer consistent supply, while smaller factories may have variability. Request production schedules and third-party lab test results.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Chinese manufacturers must comply with the “Regulations on the Safety Management of Hazardous Chemicals.” Check for valid production licenses, hazardous chemical permits, and export registration. Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays.
Logistics and Packaging
HF requires specialized packaging (HDPE drums, IBC totes, ISO tanks). Confirm the supplier’s experience with international shipping, including proper labeling, UN classification (UN1790), and container compatibility with maritime regulations.
Pricing and Payment Terms
Compare FOB prices across suppliers. Be wary of prices significantly below market average, as they may indicate diluted or recycled acid. Standard payment terms are 30% T/T deposit, 70% against copy of shipping documents.
Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages
Cost Efficiency
China benefits from abundant fluorite reserves (the primary raw material) and lower labor costs, resulting in competitive pricing. Chinese HF is typically 15–25% cheaper than Western equivalents.
Large-Scale Production
With the world’s largest production capacity, Chinese factories can fulfill bulk orders (100+ metric tons) with short lead times (2–4 weeks). This is critical for industries like aluminum smelting and refrigerant manufacturing.
Technological Advancements
Leading Chinese producers have adopted advanced purification technologies, producing high-purity HF (99.99%+) for semiconductor applications, rivaling Japanese and American grades.
Established Export Infrastructure
China has well-developed ports (Ningbo, Shanghai, Qingdao) and experienced freight forwarders specializing in hazardous chemicals, ensuring efficient global logistics.
How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China?
Online B2B Platforms
Use Alibaba.com, Made-in-China.com, and GlobalSources.com. Filter by “Verified Supplier” and “Manufacturer” status. Check transaction history and customer reviews.
Industry Trade Shows
Attend events like China Fluorine Chemical Industry Conference (held annually in Shanghai) or Canton Fair. These provide direct access to factory representatives and product samples.
Third-Party Audits
Hire inspection companies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV Rheinland to conduct factory audits. They verify production capacity, safety protocols, and quality control systems.
Government and Association Directories
Consult the China Fluorine Chemical Industry Association (CFCIA) for member lists. Local government investment bureaus in Zhejiang and Shandong also provide verified supplier databases.
Application Scenarios and Solutions
Semiconductor Etching
Ultra-pure HF (49% concentration) is used to etch silicon wafers. Solution: Partner with suppliers like Zhejiang Juhua or Honeywell for consistent purity levels and low metal ion content (<1 ppb).
Refrigerant Production
HF is a key feedstock for HFCs and HCFCs. Solution: Use anhydrous HF (99.9% purity) from large-scale producers to ensure reaction efficiency. Integrate with downstream fluorocarbon plants for cost savings.
Aluminum Smelting
HF is converted to aluminum fluoride for electrolytic baths. Solution: Source from Chinese factories with dedicated aluminum fluoride lines, ensuring stable supply during peak smelting periods.
Oil Refining
HF is used as a catalyst in alkylation units. Solution: Select suppliers with ISO tank capabilities for bulk delivery. Implement strict safety protocols due to HF’s high toxicity in refinery environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (10 Items)
- What is the shelf life of hydrofluoric acid? Typically 2 years when stored in HDPE containers at 15–25°C, away from sunlight.
- Can HF be shipped by air? No, HF is classified as a Class 8 corrosive and is prohibited for air transport. Use sea freight via ISO tanks or drums.
- What is the difference between anhydrous and aqueous HF? Anhydrous HF is 100% hydrogen fluoride gas, while aqueous HF is a solution (typically 49–70% concentration).
- How do I handle an HF spill? Use calcium gluconate gel for skin contact. For large spills, neutralize with lime or sodium bicarbonate.
- What are the main impurities in Chinese HF? Common impurities include fluorosilicic acid, sulfuric acid, and metal ions (iron, lead). Request a certificate of analysis.
- Is HF used in food processing? No, HF is toxic and not approved for food contact. It is strictly industrial.
- What is the price per metric ton? Prices range from $1,200–$2,500/MT FOB China for industrial grade, depending on purity and volume.
- How do I test HF purity? Use titration with sodium hydroxide or ion chromatography for trace metals.
- Can I mix HF with other acids? Avoid mixing with nitric or sulfuric acid, as it can generate toxic gases.
- What is the minimum order quantity? Typically 20 metric tons for bulk orders, or 200 kg for sample orders.
Procurement Precautions
Legal and Documentation Compliance
Ensure the supplier provides a valid “Business License for Hazardous Chemicals,” “Export License,” and “Certificate of Origin.” Verify that the product’s HS code (2811.11) matches your customs requirements. Maintain a complete chain of custody documents for liability protection.
Quality Assurance Protocols
Request pre-shipment inspection by a third party. Test for concentration (using hydrometer or titration), heavy metal content (ICP-MS), and acidity. Reject batches with visible discoloration or sediment.
Packaging and Labeling Standards
Verify that drums are UN-approved, with proper hazard labels (corrosive, toxic). Ensure MSDS is in the destination country’s language. For ISO tanks, check for hydrostatic test certificates within the last 5 years.
Insurance and Liability
Purchase marine cargo insurance covering chemical spills and contamination. Include a clause in the contract for product liability in case of non-conformity.
Product Quotation Guide
Pricing for hydrofluoric acid varies based on grade, volume, and shipping terms. Below is a representative quotation structure from a Chinese supplier (FOB Shanghai, as of Q1 2025).
| Grade | Purity | Packaging | Price (USD/MT) | MOQ (MT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Grade | 70% | HDPE Drum (250 kg) | $1,200–$1,500 | 20 |
| Anhydrous | 99.9% | ISO Tank (20 MT) | $2,000–$2,500 | 20 |
| Electronic Grade | 49% (ULSI) | IBC Tote (1,000 kg) | $2,800–$3,500 | 10 |
| ACS Reagent Grade | 48–51% | Bottle (2.5 L) | $4,000–$5,000 | 1 |
Note: Prices are subject to change based on raw material costs (fluorspar) and freight rates. Add $200–$400/MT for CIF delivery to major ports (Rotterdam, Houston, Yokohama).
Industry Standards
International Standards
- ASTM D1529-17: Standard specification for hydrofluoric acid.
- ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems.
- UN 1790: Classification for transport (Class 8, PG I).
- SEMI C28-0300: Specification for high-purity HF in semiconductor use.
Chinese National Standards
- GB/T 7744-2008: Industrial hydrofluoric acid.
- GB/T 7746-2011: Anhydrous hydrogen fluoride.
- GB 13690-2009: Classification and labeling of chemicals.
- HG/T 3818-2006: Electronic grade hydrofluoric acid.
Compliance with these standards is mandatory for export. Buyers should request copies of test reports from CNAS-accredited labs.
Global Import and Export Region Ranking (Top 5)
Top 5 Exporting Countries (2024 Data)
| Rank | Country | Export Volume (MT) | Major Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 450,000 | India, USA, Japan, South Korea |
| 2 | Mexico | 120,000 | USA, Canada, Brazil |
| 3 | India | 90,000 | Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia |
| 4 | Japan | 70,000 | South Korea, Taiwan, USA |
| 5 | Germany | 50,000 | EU countries, Russia |
Top 5 Importing Countries (2024 Data)
| Rank | Country | Import Volume (MT) | Major Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USA | 180,000 | Mexico, China, Japan |
| 2 | India | 150,000 | China, Japan |
| 3 | South Korea | 100,000 | China, Japan |
| 4 | Germany | 80,000 | China, Mexico |
| 5 | Japan | 60,000 | China, USA |
Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers
- Q: Where to buy hydrofluoric acid bulk online? A: Purchase from verified suppliers on Alibaba or GlobalSources. Filter by “Manufacturer” and request samples. Ensure the supplier has a valid hazardous chemical export license.
- Q: What is the price of hydrofluoric acid per ton in 2025? A: Industrial grade (70%) costs $1,200–$1,500/MT FOB China. Anhydrous grade is $2,000–$2,500/MT. Prices fluctuate with fluorspar costs and shipping rates.
- Q: How to ship hydrofluoric acid internationally? A: Use UN-approved HDPE drums or ISO tanks. Classify as UN1790, Class 8, PG I. Hire a freight forwarder specializing in hazardous chemicals. Sea freight is mandatory.
- Q: Is hydrofluoric acid legal to import in my country? A: Check local regulations. Most countries require an import permit for hazardous chemicals. The US EPA and EU REACH have specific registration requirements.
- Q: What is the difference between 49% and 70% HF? A: 49% HF is commonly used for etching and cleaning, while 70% is used in chemical synthesis. Higher concentration requires stricter handling due to increased fuming.
- Q: How to test hydrofluoric acid purity at home? A: Professional testing requires titration or ICP-MS. Do not attempt home testing due to toxicity. Request a certificate of analysis from the supplier.
- Q: Can I get a sample of hydrofluoric acid before bulk purchase? A: Yes, most suppliers offer 1–5 kg samples for $100–$300, including shipping. Ensure proper packaging and labeling for small quantities.
- Q: What are the risks of buying cheap HF from China? A: Risks include low purity, contamination, and non-compliance with safety standards. Always verify the supplier’s certifications and request third-party testing.
- Q: How to store hydrofluoric acid safely? A: Store in HDPE containers in a cool, dry, ventilated area away from metals and bases. Use secondary containment. Temperature should not exceed 30°C.
- Q: What is the lead time for HF orders from China? A: Typical lead time is 2–4 weeks for bulk orders (20 MT+). Sample orders ship within 1 week. Delays may occur during Chinese holidays (Chinese New Year).
Customs Data and Tariff Rates
HS Code Classification
Hydrofluoric acid falls under HS code 2811.11 (Hydrogen fluoride, hydrofluoric acid). This code is consistent across most countries under the Harmonized System.
Tariff Rates by Key Markets
| Country/Region | Duty Rate (MFN) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 3.7% | Subject to Section 301 tariffs (25% additional for Chinese origin) |
| European Union | 5.5% | REACH registration required |
| India | 7.5% | BIS certification needed for some grades |
| Japan | 2.9% | JIS standard compliance |
| South Korea | 5.0% | K-REACH pre-registration required |
Customs Clearance Documents
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (Sea) or Air Waybill (if applicable)
- Certificate of Origin (for preferential tariff treatment)
- MSDS in destination language
- Import License (if required by importing country)
- Phytosanitary Certificate (not applicable for HF, but verify)
Why Choose Small and Medium Factories? Differences from Large Factories
Advantages of Small and Medium Factories (SMEs)
SMEs offer greater flexibility in customization, lower minimum order quantities (MOQ of 5–10 MT vs. 20+ MT for large factories), and more responsive communication. They are often willing to negotiate payment terms (e.g., 50% deposit, 50% against BL) and provide faster sample production (3–5 days). SMEs in specialized regions like Fujian or Henan may focus on niche grades (e.g., high-purity for pharmaceuticals).
Advantages of Large Factories
Large factories like Zhejiang Juhua or Shandong Dongyue ensure consistent quality, larger production capacity (100,000+ MT/year), and better compliance with international standards. They have dedicated R&D teams, automated packaging lines, and established logistics networks. However, they may have rigid MOQ requirements and slower response times for small orders.
Key Differences
| Factor | Small/Medium Factory | Large Factory |
|---|---|---|
| MOQ | 5–10 MT | 20–50 MT |
| Lead Time | 1–2 weeks | 3–4 weeks |
| Customization | High (custom concentration, packaging) | Low (standard grades only) |
| Price | 5–10% lower | Higher due to overhead |
| Certifications | Basic (ISO 9001) | Advanced (ISO, SEMI, REACH) |
| Risk of Quality Issues | Higher (inconsistent batches) | Lower (rigid QC) |
2026 News Summary from Major Media Sources
Global HF Market Growth Projection
According to a report by Grand View Research (January 2026), the global hydrofluoric acid market is expected to reach $4.5 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2025 to 2030. Key drivers include increasing demand from the semiconductor and electric vehicle battery sectors. Source: Grand View Research, “Hydrofluoric Acid Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, 2025–2030,” published January 15, 2026.
China’s Export Restrictions on Fluorspar
In February 2026, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced new export quotas for fluorspar (acid-grade), reducing export volumes by 15% to conserve domestic resources. This move is expected to increase HF prices globally by 8–12% in Q2 2026. Source: Reuters, “China to Cut Fluorspar Exports, Impacting HF Supply Chain,” February 10, 2026.
New HF Production Facility in India
Navin Fluorine International Ltd. announced the commissioning of a new 50,000 MT/year HF plant in Gujarat, India, in March 2026. The plant uses advanced membrane cell technology to reduce energy consumption by 20%. Source: Business Standard, “Navin Fluorine Starts New HF Plant in Gujarat,” March 5, 2026.
EU REACH Updates for HF Imports
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) updated REACH registration requirements for hydrofluoric acid in January 2026, mandating additional ecotoxicity data for importers. Non-compliance could result in import bans by July 2026. Source: ECHA Press Release, “REACH Update for Hydrofluoric Acid,” January 20, 2026.
US Tariff Changes on Chinese HF
The US Trade Representative (USTR) announced in April 2026 a temporary reduction of Section 301 tariffs on Chinese HF from 25% to 10% for a 6-month period, aimed at stabilizing supply for the semiconductor industry. Source: USTR Federal Register, “Modification of Section 301 Tariffs on Chinese Chemicals,” April 2, 2026.
2026 Market Core Data Overview
| Metric | 2025 Data | 2026 Forecast | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Market Size | $3.8 billion | $4.0 billion | Grand View Research |
| China Production Volume | 2.1 million MT | 2.2 million MT | CFCIA |
| Average Price (Industrial Grade, FOB China) | $1,350/MT | $1,450/MT | Market Analysis |
| Semiconductor HF Demand | 180,000 MT | 210,000 MT | SEMI |
| Top Export Destination (China) | India (25%) | India (27%) | China Customs |
| Fluorspar Price (Acid Grade) | $350/MT | $400/MT | Fastmarkets |
| New HF Capacity Added Globally | 120,000 MT | 150,000 MT | Industry Reports |
Customer and Market Pain Points
Quality Inconsistency
Buyers frequently report variations in HF concentration and impurity levels between batches from the same supplier. This is especially problematic for semiconductor manufacturers requiring ultra-pure grades. Solution: Insist on batch-by-batch certificates of analysis and use third-party labs for random testing.
Supply Chain Disruptions
Geopolitical tensions (e.g., US-China trade war) and raw material shortages (fluorspar) cause sudden price spikes and delivery delays. In 2025, lead times from China extended to 6–8 weeks during peak seasons. Solution: Diversify suppliers across multiple countries (India, Mexico) and maintain safety stock of 2–3 months.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Importers struggle with ever-changing regulations, such as REACH updates in the EU and BIS certifications in India. Non-compliance can result in customs holds, fines, or product seizures. Solution: Partner with a customs broker specializing in hazardous chemicals and subscribe to regulatory update services.
High Logistics Costs
Shipping HF requires specialized containers (ISO tanks, UN drums) and hazardous cargo insurance, adding 20–30% to total procurement costs. Port congestion (e.g., Los Angeles, Rotterdam) further increases freight rates. Solution: Negotiate long-term contracts with freight forwarders and consider bulk shipping via ISO tanks to reduce per-unit costs.
Limited Supplier Transparency
Many Chinese suppliers are reluctant to share production details, raw material sources, or safety incident records. This creates trust issues for first-time buyers. Solution: Conduct factory audits and request references from existing customers. Use platforms like Alibaba Trade Assurance for added protection.
