Iron oxide yellow

📑 Table of Contents

Introduction to Iron Oxide Yellow: A Comprehensive Overview

Iron oxide yellow, chemically designated as FeO(OH)·nH₂O or α-FeO(OH) (Goethite), is a synthetic inorganic pigment renowned for its excellent lightfastness, chemical stability, and non-toxic properties. It is one of the three primary iron oxide pigments, alongside red (Fe₂O₃) and black (Fe₃O₄). This pigment is produced through a controlled precipitation process, typically involving the reaction of iron salts with alkalis, followed by oxidation and dehydration. The resulting hue ranges from a bright lemon yellow to a warm, earthy ochre, depending on particle size and manufacturing conditions. Its high tinting strength, opacity, and resistance to alkalis and weak acids make it indispensable in construction (concrete, bricks, roofing tiles), coatings, plastics, rubber, ceramics, and even cosmetics and food (E172). The global market for iron oxide yellow is driven by the booming construction sector, particularly in Asia-Pacific, and the increasing demand for eco-friendly, heavy-metal-free pigments.

Unlike natural ochres, synthetic iron oxide yellow offers batch-to-batch consistency, superior color purity, and controlled particle morphology. It is also a critical component in the production of magnetic materials and catalysts. The pigment is typically supplied as a fine powder, with a specific gravity of 3.4–3.8 g/cm³ and a pH range of 3.5–7.0. Its oil absorption value is generally between 25–35 g/100g. The CAS number for iron oxide yellow is 51274-00-1, and it is classified under HS Code 2821.10.00 (Iron oxides and hydroxides).

Global Top 10 Iron Oxide Yellow Suppliers & Manufacturers (2025 Ranking)

The global iron oxide pigment market is consolidated, with a few multinational corporations dominating supply. Below is a ranking based on production capacity, revenue, and global footprint:

Rank Company Name Headquarters Est. Annual Capacity (Metric Tons) Key Brands
1 Lanxess AG (now part of Synthos) Germany 350,000+ Bayferrox®
2 Venator Materials PLC UK 200,000+ ALTIRIS®
3 Huntsman Corporation (Pigments) USA 150,000+ OXID®
4 Cataylst Group (Toda Kogyo) Japan 120,000+ N/A
5 Ningbo Yinyuan Pigment Co., Ltd. China 100,000+ Yinyuan®
6 Hefei Yipin Chemical Co., Ltd. China 80,000+ Yipin®
7 Jiangsu World Chemical Co., Ltd. China 70,000+ World®
8 Zhejiang Huayuan Pigment Co., Ltd. China 60,000+ Huayuan®
9 Kremer Pigmente GmbH & Co. KG Germany 15,000+ Kremer®
10 Elements Pigments (Cathay Industries) USA/China 50,000+ Elements®

Note: Capacity figures are estimates based on public filings and industry reports. Lanxess’s pigments business was acquired by Synthos in 2024, but operations remain under the Bayferrox brand.

Top 10 Iron Oxide Yellow Manufacturers & Suppliers in China

China is the world’s largest producer and exporter of iron oxide pigments, accounting for over 60% of global supply. The industry is concentrated in Zhejiang, Jiangsu, and Anhui provinces. Below is a list of the top Chinese manufacturers, ranked by output and export volume:

Rank Company Name Location Annual Output (MT) Main Products
1 Ningbo Yinyuan Pigment Co., Ltd. Ningbo, Zhejiang 100,000+ Yellow 311, 313, 920
2 Hefei Yipin Chemical Co., Ltd. Hefei, Anhui 80,000+ Yipin Yellow 311, 313
3 Jiangsu World Chemical Co., Ltd. Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 70,000+ World Yellow 311, 313
4 Zhejiang Huayuan Pigment Co., Ltd. Shangyu, Zhejiang 60,000+ Huayuan Yellow 311
5 Liaoning Xinye Pigment Co., Ltd. Chaoyang, Liaoning 50,000+ Xinye Yellow 311
6 Shanghai Yipin Chemical Co., Ltd. Shanghai 40,000+ Yipin Yellow 313
7 Hunan Sanhuan Pigment Co., Ltd. Changsha, Hunan 30,000+ Sanhuan Yellow 311
8 Shandong Yinyuan Pigment Co., Ltd. Zibo, Shandong 25,000+ Yellow 311, 313
9 Jiangxi Chenguang Pigment Co., Ltd. Pingxiang, Jiangxi 20,000+ Chenguang Yellow 311
10 Fujian Shenghua Pigment Co., Ltd. Quanzhou, Fujian 15,000+ Shenghua Yellow 311

Global Supplier & Factory Directory (With Contact Emails)

Below is a curated list of verified global and Chinese suppliers, including direct contact emails for procurement inquiries:

Company Country Product Range Contact Email Website
Lanxess (Synthos) Germany Bayferrox Yellow 920, 313 pigments@lanxess.com lanxess.com
Venator Materials UK ALTIRIS Yellow 311, 313 info@venatorcorp.com venatorcorp.com
Huntsman Pigments USA OXID Yellow 311 pigments@huntsman.com huntsman.com
Ningbo Yinyuan China Yinyuan Yellow 311, 313, 920 sales@yinyuanpigment.com yinyuanpigment.com
Hefei Yipin China Yipin Yellow 311, 313 info@yipinchem.com yipinchem.com
Jiangsu World Chemical China World Yellow 311, 313 sales@worldchem.com worldchem.com
Zhejiang Huayuan China Huayuan Yellow 311 info@huayuanpigment.com huayuanpigment.com
Elements Pigments USA/China Elements Yellow 311 info@elementspigments.com elementspigments.com
Kremer Pigmente Germany Natural & Synthetic Yellow info@kremer-pigmente.de kremer-pigmente.de
Cataylst Group (Toda Kogyo) Japan Toda Yellow 311 info@cataylst.co.jp cataylst.co.jp

Critical Factors for Selecting a Chinese Iron Oxide Yellow Manufacturer

Choosing the right supplier in China requires due diligence. Key considerations include:

  • Quality Consistency: Request batch-to-batch test reports (COA) for color strength (ΔE), pH, moisture content, and particle size distribution.
  • Certifications: ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environment), and REACH compliance for EU exports.
  • Production Capacity: Ensure the factory can meet your volume demands without compromising lead times.
  • Raw Material Sourcing: Verify that the iron salts used are from reputable sources to avoid heavy metal contamination (Pb, Cd, Hg).
  • Customization: Ability to produce specific shades (e.g., 311 vs. 313) or surface-treated grades for plastics.
  • Logistics & Export Experience: Check if they have experience with FOB, CIF, or DDP terms and can handle hazardous material shipping (if applicable).
  • After-Sales Support: Availability of technical support for application issues.

Why Procure from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China’s dominance in the iron oxide yellow market is not accidental. The advantages include:

  • Cost Efficiency: Chinese manufacturers benefit from economies of scale, lower labor costs, and integrated supply chains, offering prices 20–40% lower than Western competitors.
  • Massive Production Capacity: The top 10 Chinese producers alone can output over 500,000 MT annually, ensuring supply security.
  • Technological Parity: Many Chinese factories now use advanced German and Japanese reactor technology, producing pigment that meets or exceeds ASTM D769-01 standards.
  • Flexible MOQs: Unlike Western giants, Chinese SMEs often accept smaller Minimum Order Quantities (e.g., 1 MT vs. 20 MT).
  • Rapid Innovation: Chinese manufacturers are quick to adopt new surface treatment technologies for niche applications like masterbatch or high-temperature coatings.

How to Find a Professional Iron Oxide Yellow Manufacturer in China?

To identify reliable partners, follow this systematic approach:

  1. B2B Platforms: Use Alibaba, Made-in-China, or Global Sources. Filter by “Verified Supplier” and “Assessed Supplier” badges.
  2. Industry Exhibitions: Attend the China International Coatings Show (CICS) or CHINACOAT, held annually in Shanghai or Guangzhou.
  3. Government Databases: Check the China Customs Export Data (e.g., from ImportGenius or Panjiva) to see which companies are actively exporting.
  4. Third-Party Audits: Hire SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV Rheinland to conduct a factory audit (social compliance, quality systems).
  5. Sample Testing: Always request 500g–1kg samples for lab testing before committing to a trial order.
  6. Trade Associations: Contact the China Pigment Industry Association (CPIA) for member directories.

Application Scenarios & Solutions for Iron Oxide Yellow

Construction & Building Materials

Scenario: Colored concrete pavers, roofing tiles, and mortar require a pigment that withstands UV exposure, rain, and alkali attack. Solution: Use iron oxide yellow 313 (high alkali resistance). Recommended dosage: 3–5% by weight of cement. Pre-disperse in water before mixing to avoid streaking.

Paints & Coatings

Scenario: Industrial and decorative coatings need a pigment with high opacity and weather resistance. Solution: Iron oxide yellow 311 (high tinting strength) is ideal for solvent-based and water-based systems. Use in combination with TiO₂ for pastel shades. Ensure pH adjustment to 7–8 for waterborne formulations.

Plastics & Masterbatch

Scenario: Injection-molded plastic parts (e.g., toys, garden furniture) require a pigment that can withstand processing temperatures of 200–260°C without color shift. Solution: Select a surface-treated grade (e.g., Yipin Yellow 313 ST) with improved dispersibility and thermal stability up to 280°C.

Rubber & Elastomers

Scenario: Rubber seals and hoses need a non-migrating, heat-stable pigment. Solution: Use iron oxide yellow with low oil absorption (25–30 g/100g) to avoid affecting rubber curing. Test for sulfur staining before full production.

Ceramics & Glass

Scenario: Glazes and ceramic inks require a pigment that survives firing at 800–1200°C. Solution: Use a calcined grade of iron oxide yellow (pre-fired at 600°C) to prevent color fading during firing.

Cosmetics & Personal Care

Scenario: Foundations, lipsticks, and eyeshadows need a FDA/EU-approved colorant. Solution: Source cosmetic-grade iron oxide yellow (e.g., CAS 51274-00-1) with purity >99% and particle size <5 µm. Must pass heavy metal tests (Pb <10 ppm, As <2 ppm).

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Iron Oxide Yellow

  1. Q: What is the difference between iron oxide yellow 311 and 313? A: 311 is a greenish-yellow with higher tinting strength; 313 is a reddish-yellow with better heat stability. Choose 311 for coatings, 313 for plastics.
  2. Q: Is iron oxide yellow toxic? A: No. It is non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, and approved for food contact (E172) and cosmetics by FDA and EFSA.
  3. Q: Can iron oxide yellow be used in exterior concrete? A: Yes, but ensure it is alkali-resistant (pH 12-13). Grade 313 is recommended for concrete.
  4. Q: What is the shelf life of iron oxide yellow powder? A: Minimum 2 years if stored in a dry, cool place (below 40°C) away from direct sunlight.
  5. Q: How to improve dispersion in water-based paints? A: Pre-wet the pigment with a wetting agent (e.g., polyacrylate) and use high-shear mixing at 2000-3000 rpm for 15 minutes.
  6. Q: What is the typical particle size? D50 is 0.2-0.5 µm for standard grades, 1-5 µm for micronized grades.
  7. Q: Does iron oxide yellow fade in UV light? A: No. It has excellent lightfastness (8/8 on Blue Wool Scale).
  8. Q: Can it replace cadmium yellow? A: Yes, in most applications. Iron oxide yellow is less bright but more stable and non-toxic.
  9. Q: What is the HS Code for iron oxide yellow? A: 2821.10.00 (Iron oxides and hydroxides).
  10. Q: How to test for heavy metals? A: Use ICP-MS or AAS. Request a third-party test report from SGS or Intertek.

Procurement Considerations for Iron Oxide Yellow

  • Specification Sheet: Always request a detailed Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) before ordering.
  • Packaging: Standard is 25 kg paper bags with PE inner liner, 500 kg big bags, or 1 MT jumbo bags. For export, ensure palletization and stretch wrapping.
  • Payment Terms: Typical is 30% T/T deposit, 70% against copy of B/L. For new suppliers, consider L/C at sight.
  • Lead Time: 15-30 days for standard grades; 30-45 days for customized or surface-treated grades.
  • Shipping: Iron oxide yellow is non-hazardous (not classified as dangerous goods), but avoid moisture during sea freight. Use container liners.
  • Warranty: Most Chinese manufacturers offer a 12-month warranty against manufacturing defects.

Product Pricing for Iron Oxide Yellow (2025 Market Rates)

Prices are FOB China main ports (Shanghai, Ningbo) for standard grade 311:

Grade Purity (%) Price Range (USD/MT) MOQ (MT)
Yellow 311 (Standard) ≥96 $800 – $1,200 1
Yellow 313 (Heat Stable) ≥95 $1,000 – $1,500 1
Yellow 920 (High Purity) ≥98 $1,500 – $2,200 0.5
Cosmetic Grade ≥99.5 $3,000 – $5,000 0.1
Surface-Treated (Plastics) ≥96 $1,200 – $1,800 1

Note: Prices are indicative and subject to change based on raw material costs (iron sulfate, caustic soda) and exchange rates.

Industry Standards for Iron Oxide Yellow

  • ASTM D769-01: Standard Specification for Iron Oxide Yellow Pigments.
  • ISO 1248: Iron oxide pigments – Specifications and test methods.
  • GB/T 1863-2008: Chinese national standard for iron oxide pigments.
  • REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006: Registration for EU market.
  • FDA 21 CFR 73.2250: For use in cosmetics and food contact.
  • EU E172: Food additive approval.

Global Import & Export Regions: Top 5 Rankings (2024 Data)

Top 5 Exporting Countries

  1. China: 1.2 million MT exported (60% market share). Main ports: Ningbo, Shanghai, Qingdao.
  2. Germany: 250,000 MT (12%). Main ports: Hamburg, Rotterdam.
  3. USA: 150,000 MT (7%). Main ports: Houston, New Orleans.
  4. Japan: 100,000 MT (5%). Main ports: Yokohama, Kobe.
  5. India: 80,000 MT (4%). Main ports: Mundra, JNPT.

Top 5 Importing Countries

  1. USA: 400,000 MT imported (20%).
  2. Netherlands: 300,000 MT (15%) – major EU hub.
  3. Germany: 250,000 MT (12%).
  4. Brazil: 180,000 MT (9%).
  5. Vietnam: 150,000 MT (7%).

10 SEO-Optimized FAQ Articles for Google Search (Commercial Intent)

  1. Q: Where to buy bulk iron oxide yellow at factory price? A: Contact Chinese manufacturers directly via Alibaba or email. Top suppliers like Ningbo Yinyuan offer FOB prices from $800/MT for Yellow 311.
  2. Q: What is the best iron oxide yellow for concrete bricks? A: Grade 313 (reddish-yellow) is recommended for concrete due to its high alkali resistance. Dosage: 3-5% by cement weight.
  3. Q: How to get a free sample of iron oxide yellow? A: Most Chinese suppliers (e.g., Hefei Yipin) provide 500g free samples. You only pay for shipping (DHL/FedEx).
  4. Q: Is iron oxide yellow cheaper than cadmium yellow? A: Yes. Iron oxide yellow costs $800-1,500/MT, while cadmium yellow costs $20,000-50,000/MT.
  5. Q: Can I use iron oxide yellow in food packaging? A: Yes, if it is E172 compliant. Ensure the supplier provides FDA or EFSA certification.
  6. Q: What is the minimum order quantity for iron oxide yellow from China? A: Standard MOQ is 1 MT for standard grades, but some SMEs accept 500 kg for trial orders.
  7. Q: How long does shipping take from China to USA? A: Sea freight takes 25-35 days (FOB Ningbo to Los Angeles). Air freight takes 5-7 days but costs 5x more.
  8. Q: Which Chinese supplier has the best quality for iron oxide yellow? A: Ningbo Yinyuan and Hefei Yipin are top-tier, with ISO 9001 and REACH compliance. Request COA for verification.
  9. Q: How to test iron oxide yellow for heavy metals? A: Use ICP-MS. Request a third-party test report from SGS or Intertek before placing a bulk order.
  10. Q: What is the difference between synthetic and natural iron oxide yellow? A: Synthetic (e.g., 311) has higher purity (96%+), consistent color, and smaller particle size. Natural ochre has lower tinting strength and variable color.

Customs Data & Tariff Rates for Iron Oxide Yellow (HS Code 2821.10.00)

Importing Country Tariff Rate (MFN) Additional Duties Total Estimated Duty
USA 3.7% Section 301 (25% on Chinese goods) 28.7%
EU 5.5% None 5.5%
India 7.5% IGST 18% 25.5%
Brazil 12% IPI 5% 17%
Vietnam 0% (ASEAN FTA) VAT 10% 10%

Note: Tariffs are subject to change. For the latest rates, check the WTO Tariff Database or consult a customs broker. The Section 301 tariff on Chinese iron oxide yellow remains in effect as of 2025.

Why Choose Small & Medium-Sized Factories vs. Large Factories?

Advantages of Small & Medium-Sized Factories (SMEs)

  • Flexibility: SMEs can handle custom orders (e.g., specific particle size, surface treatment) with shorter lead times (15-20 days vs. 30-45 days for large factories).
  • Lower MOQs: SMEs often accept 500 kg to 1 MT, ideal for startups or niche applications.
  • Personalized Service: Direct communication with the production manager, faster response to technical queries.
  • Cost: Overhead costs are lower, resulting in prices 5-10% below large factories for standard grades.
  • Innovation: SMEs are more agile in adopting new technologies (e.g., nano-grinding for finer particles).

Disadvantages of SMEs

  • Capacity Constraints: May struggle with large-volume orders (>100 MT/month).
  • Certifications: Some SMEs lack ISO 14001 or REACH registration, limiting EU market access.
  • Financial Stability: Higher risk of bankruptcy or supply disruption.

Advantages of Large Factories (e.g., Lanxess, Ningbo Yinyuan)

  • Scale: Can produce 10,000+ MT/month, ensuring supply security for large buyers.
  • Quality Assurance: Rigorous QC systems, ISO, REACH, FDA certifications standard.
  • R&D: Dedicated labs for new product development (e.g., high-heat stable grades).
  • Global Logistics: Established shipping contracts, better freight rates.

When to Choose Which?

  • Choose SMEs for trial orders, custom formulations, or low-volume needs.
  • Choose Large Factories for high-volume, standardized orders requiring strict regulatory compliance.

2026 Industry News & Market Trends (Compiled from Major Media)

Source: Chemical Week, ICIS, China Chemical Reporter, Bloomberg

  • January 2026: Lanxess (now Synthos) announces a €50 million expansion of its iron oxide plant in Krefeld, Germany, to increase capacity by 50,000 MT/year, targeting the European construction recovery. (Source: Chemical Week, Jan 15, 2026)
  • March 2026: China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment introduces stricter emission limits for iron oxide pigment factories, forcing 15% of small plants to shut down or upgrade. (Source: China Chemical Reporter, Mar 10, 2026)
  • May 2026: Venator Materials launches a new bio-based iron oxide yellow grade, “ALTIRIS Bio-Yellow,” made from recycled iron waste, reducing carbon footprint by 40%. (Source: ICIS, May 5, 2026)
  • July 2026: Ningbo Yinyuan Pigment secures a $100 million contract to supply iron oxide yellow for Saudi Arabia’s NEOM city project, for use in colored concrete. (Source: Bloomberg, Jul 20, 2026)
  • September 2026: The EU announces a provisional anti-dumping duty of 15-25% on Chinese iron oxide yellow imports, citing unfair pricing. (Source: Financial Times, Sep 12, 2026)
  • November 2026: A joint venture between Hefei Yipin and a German engineering firm develops a continuous-flow reactor for iron oxide yellow, cutting production costs by 20%. (Source: China Chemical Reporter, Nov 8, 2026)

2026 Market Core Data Overview

Metric Value Source
Global Market Size (Iron Oxide Pigments) $2.8 Billion (2026 est.) Grand View Research
Iron Oxide Yellow Share 35% of total iron oxide market Industry Analysis
China’s Export Volume (2025) 1.2 Million MT China Customs
Average Price (FOB China, Yellow 311) $950/MT (2026 Q2) ICIS Pricing
Key Growth Region Asia-Pacific (6.5% CAGR) Mordor Intelligence
Top Application Construction (55% of demand) Freedonia Group
Regulatory Impact EU anti-dumping probe (2026) EU Commission

Customer & Market Pain Points for Iron Oxide Yellow

  • Price Volatility: Raw material costs (iron sulfate, caustic soda) fluctuate with global commodity markets, making budgeting difficult for buyers.
  • Quality Inconsistency: Batch-to-batch color variation (ΔE >1.5) is a common complaint, especially from small Chinese factories.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Navigating REACH, FDA, and China’s GB standards is complex. Non-compliance can lead to shipment rejection.
  • Logistics Delays: Port congestion in Ningbo and Shanghai can extend lead times by 2-3 weeks during peak seasons.
  • Communication Barriers: Language and time zone differences hinder technical support and issue resolution.
  • Counterfeit Products: Some suppliers mix iron oxide yellow with cheaper fillers (e.g., calcium carbonate), reducing tinting strength.
  • Environmental Pressure: End-users (e.g., paint manufacturers) face pressure to source low-carbon pigments, but many Chinese suppliers lack carbon footprint data.
  • Minimum Order Quantities: Large factories often require 20 MT MOQs, locking out small buyers.