iron(III) hydroxide

📑 Table of Contents

Introduction to Iron(III) Hydroxide

Iron(III) hydroxide, also known as ferric hydroxide, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Fe(OH)₃. It appears as a reddish-brown solid that is insoluble in water. This compound is widely recognized for its role in water treatment, pigment production, and as a precursor to other iron compounds. In nature, it forms through the oxidation of iron in aqueous environments, often appearing as rust or ochre deposits. Its high surface area and adsorptive properties make it valuable in removing contaminants like arsenic and heavy metals from water. The compound is also used in the manufacturing of catalysts, magnetic materials, and in the pharmaceutical industry as an iron supplement. Understanding its chemical behavior, including its amphoteric nature (reacting with both acids and bases), is crucial for industrial applications.

Global Top 10 Suppliers and Manufacturers of Iron(III) Hydroxide

The global market for iron(III) hydroxide is dominated by a mix of multinational chemical corporations and specialized manufacturers. These suppliers are recognized for their production capacity, quality control, and distribution networks. Below is a ranking based on market presence, revenue, and production volume.

Rank Company Name Country Key Products/Specialty
1 BASF SE Germany Water treatment chemicals, pigments
2 Dow Inc. USA Industrial chemicals, adsorbents
3 Huntsman Corporation USA Specialty chemicals, catalysts
4 AkzoNobel N.V. Netherlands Coatings, pigments, iron oxides
5 Lanxess AG Germany Inorganic pigments, water treatment
6 Kemira Oyj Finland Water & wastewater treatment
7 Venator Materials PLC UK Titanium dioxide, iron oxide pigments
8 Huber Engineered Materials USA Specialty minerals, adsorbents
9 Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation Japan Chemical products, iron compounds
10 GFS Chemicals, Inc. USA High-purity laboratory chemicals

Top 10 Iron(III) Hydroxide Suppliers and Manufacturers in China

China is a major producer of iron(III) hydroxide, driven by its robust chemical manufacturing sector and demand from water treatment and pigment industries. The following list highlights key Chinese manufacturers known for quality and scale.

Rank Company Name Location Specialty
1 Zhejiang Huayuan Chemical Co., Ltd. Zhejiang Water treatment chemicals
2 Shandong Dongming Chemical Group Shandong Iron compounds, pigments
3 Hebei Xinhe Chemical Co., Ltd. Hebei Industrial chemicals, adsorbents
4 Jiangsu Yixing Chemical Co., Ltd. Jiangsu Water treatment, iron salts
5 Hunan Yueliang Chemical Co., Ltd. Hunan Specialty iron oxides
6 Shanghai Mint Chem Development Co., Ltd. Shanghai R&D, fine chemicals
7 Guangdong Guanghua Sci-Tech Co., Ltd. Guangdong Laboratory reagents
8 Wuhan Xinxin Jiayou Chemical Co., Ltd. Hubei Industrial grade chemicals
9 Nanjing Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. Jiangsu Bulk chemicals, iron compounds
10 Shanxi Fenglei Chemical Co., Ltd. Shanxi Mining chemicals, adsorbents

Global Supplier and Manufacturer Profile with Contact Emails

Below is a detailed table of major global suppliers, including their primary contact email addresses for business inquiries. Please note that emails are for general inquiries and may be subject to change.

Company Name Country Product Range Contact Email
BASF SE Germany Water treatment, pigments, catalysts info@basf.com
Dow Inc. USA Industrial chemicals, adsorbents customerservice@dow.com
Lanxess AG Germany Inorganic pigments, water treatment info@lanxess.com
Kemira Oyj Finland Water & wastewater treatment info@kemira.com
Venator Materials PLC UK Iron oxide pigments info@venatorcorp.com
Huber Engineered Materials USA Specialty minerals, adsorbents info@huber.com
Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation Japan Chemical products, iron compounds info@m-chemical.co.jp
GFS Chemicals, Inc. USA High-purity laboratory chemicals sales@gfschemicals.com
Zhejiang Huayuan Chemical China Water treatment chemicals info@huayuanchem.com
Shandong Dongming Chemical China Iron compounds, pigments sales@dongmingchem.com

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

When sourcing iron(III) hydroxide from China, due diligence is essential to ensure product quality and supply chain reliability. Consider the following factors:

  • Quality Certifications: Verify ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and other relevant certifications. Request product specifications and safety data sheets (SDS).
  • Production Capacity: Assess the manufacturer’s annual output and ability to meet your volume requirements consistently.
  • Purity Levels: Confirm the purity of Fe(OH)₃, as impurities can affect performance in applications like water treatment.
  • Pricing and Payment Terms: Compare quotes from multiple suppliers. Be cautious of prices significantly lower than market average.
  • Logistics and Shipping: Evaluate the manufacturer’s export experience, shipping methods, and lead times.
  • Communication: Ensure the supplier has English-speaking sales representatives for clear communication.
  • Samples: Request samples for pre-production testing before placing large orders.
  • Factory Audit: Consider a third-party audit or a visit to the factory to verify production conditions.

Key Advantages of Purchasing from Chinese Manufacturers

Buying iron(III) hydroxide from Chinese suppliers offers several strategic benefits:

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Lower labor and raw material costs typically result in competitive pricing compared to Western manufacturers.
  • Large Production Scale: China’s chemical industry has massive production capacities, ensuring supply stability for bulk orders.
  • Established Supply Chain: Well-developed logistics networks for exporting chemicals globally, including ports and freight services.
  • Product Variety: Chinese manufacturers offer a wide range of grades, from industrial to high-purity, suitable for diverse applications.
  • Technological Advancements: Many Chinese factories have adopted modern production technologies, improving product consistency.
  • Flexibility: Willingness to customize packaging, labeling, and product specifications to meet buyer requirements.

How to Find a Reliable Manufacturer in China

Identifying a trustworthy Chinese manufacturer for iron(III) hydroxide requires a systematic approach:

  1. Online B2B Platforms: Use Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources to search for suppliers. Filter by verified suppliers and check transaction history.
  2. Industry Trade Shows: Attend events like China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF) or Canton Fair to meet suppliers in person.
  3. Government Databases: Check the China Customs registration and business licenses via local government portals.
  4. Third-Party Verification: Use services like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV Rheinland for factory audits and product testing.
  5. Trade Associations: Contact the China Chemical Industry Association for recommendations on reputable manufacturers.
  6. Referrals: Ask for references from other buyers in your industry or consult with sourcing agents.
  7. Social Media and Forums: LinkedIn groups and industry forums often have discussions about reliable suppliers.

Applications and Solutions Using Iron(III) Hydroxide

Iron(III) hydroxide is a versatile compound with several key applications, each requiring specific solutions:

Water Treatment

Application: Used as a coagulant and flocculant to remove suspended solids, phosphates, and heavy metals like arsenic and lead from drinking water and wastewater.

Solution: Suppliers provide Fe(OH)₃ in slurry or powder form. For optimal performance, it is often used in conjunction with polymers. Dosage must be calibrated based on water pH and contaminant levels.

Pigments and Coatings

Application: Iron(III) hydroxide is a precursor to iron oxide pigments (yellow, red, brown) used in paints, coatings, and construction materials.

Solution: Manufacturers offer controlled calcination processes to produce consistent pigment colors. The compound must be free of impurities to ensure color stability.

Catalyst Production

Application: Acts as a catalyst or catalyst support in chemical reactions, such as the Haber-Bosch process and desulfurization.

Solution: High-purity Fe(OH)₃ with specific surface area is required. Suppliers can tailor particle size and porosity for catalytic efficiency.

Pharmaceuticals

Application: Used as an iron supplement in treating anemia, often in the form of iron(III) hydroxide polymaltose complex.

Solution: Pharmaceutical-grade Fe(OH)₃ must meet strict purity standards (e.g., USP, EP). Manufacturers must have GMP certification.

Environmental Remediation

Application: Used in soil and groundwater remediation to immobilize heavy metals and radioactive contaminants.

Solution: Injected as a slurry into contaminated zones. The compound’s high adsorption capacity makes it effective for in-situ treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – 10 Questions

  1. What is the chemical formula of iron(III) hydroxide? Fe(OH)₃.
  2. Is iron(III) hydroxide soluble in water? No, it is practically insoluble in water.
  3. What are the main uses of iron(III) hydroxide? Water treatment, pigment production, catalyst manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.
  4. Is iron(III) hydroxide hazardous? It is generally considered low toxicity, but dust may irritate eyes and skin. Use proper PPE.
  5. How is iron(III) hydroxide produced? Typically by reacting iron(III) salts with an alkali, such as sodium hydroxide.
  6. What is the difference between iron(II) hydroxide and iron(III) hydroxide? Iron(II) hydroxide (Fe(OH)₂) is green and less stable, while iron(III) hydroxide is brown and more stable.
  7. Can iron(III) hydroxide be used for arsenic removal? Yes, it is highly effective in adsorbing arsenic from water.
  8. What is the storage condition for iron(III) hydroxide? Store in a dry, cool place away from acids and strong oxidizers.
  9. What is the typical purity of commercial iron(III) hydroxide? Industrial grades range from 90% to 98%, while pharmaceutical grades exceed 99%.
  10. How do I choose between powder and slurry forms? Powder is easier to transport, while slurry is ready for direct use in water treatment.

Procurement Considerations for Iron(III) Hydroxide

When procuring iron(III) hydroxide, pay attention to the following aspects to avoid common pitfalls:

  • Specification Clarity: Clearly define required purity, particle size, moisture content, and packaging (e.g., 25kg bags, 1-ton bulk bags, or drums).
  • Contract Terms: Include clauses for quality guarantees, delivery timelines, and penalties for non-compliance.
  • Inspection: Arrange for pre-shipment inspection by a third party to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Customs Compliance: Ensure the product is correctly classified under HS code (e.g., 2821.10 for iron oxides and hydroxides) for smooth customs clearance.
  • Payment Security: Use secure payment methods like Letter of Credit (L/C) or escrow services for large transactions.
  • Documentation: Request complete shipping documents, including Bill of Lading, Packing List, Certificate of Analysis, and Certificate of Origin.

Product Pricing for Iron(III) Hydroxide

Pricing for iron(III) hydroxide varies based on purity, form (powder vs. slurry), quantity, and supplier location. Below is an indicative price range as of 2026:

Grade Form Purity Price per Metric Ton (USD)
Industrial Powder 90-95% $300 – $600
Industrial Slurry (30% solids) 90% $150 – $300
High-Purity Powder 98-99% $800 – $1,500
Pharmaceutical Powder >99% $2,000 – $5,000

Note: Prices are subject to market fluctuations, shipping costs, and order volume. Always request a current quote from suppliers.

Industry Standards for Iron(III) Hydroxide

Compliance with industry standards ensures product quality and safety. Key standards include:

  • ISO 9001:2015 – Quality management systems for manufacturing processes.
  • ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental management systems.
  • ASTM D5370-18 – Standard specification for ferric hydroxide for water treatment.
  • USP-NF – United States Pharmacopeia for pharmaceutical-grade iron(III) hydroxide.
  • REACH – EU regulation for chemical safety and registration.
  • GB/T 29632-2013 – Chinese national standard for iron oxide pigments.

Top 5 Global Importing and Exporting Regions for Iron(III) Hydroxide

Based on trade data from 2025-2026, the following regions dominate the global market for iron(III) hydroxide and related iron oxide compounds:

Rank Exporting Region Export Value (USD Billion, Est.) Importing Region Import Value (USD Billion, Est.)
1 China 1.2 USA 0.8
2 Germany 0.7 Germany 0.5
3 USA 0.5 Netherlands 0.4
4 India 0.3 Japan 0.3
5 Japan 0.2 South Korea 0.2

Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers

Below are ten frequently searched commercial questions related to iron(III) hydroxide, along with optimized answers for SEO.

  1. “Buy iron(III) hydroxide bulk price” – Bulk prices for industrial-grade Fe(OH)₃ powder range from $300 to $600 per metric ton, depending on purity and supplier. Contact Chinese manufacturers for competitive quotes.
  2. “Iron(III) hydroxide suppliers in China” – Top suppliers include Zhejiang Huayuan Chemical, Shandong Dongming Chemical, and Hebei Xinhe Chemical. They offer various grades for water treatment and pigments.
  3. “Iron(III) hydroxide for water treatment cost” – Water treatment grade Fe(OH)₃ slurry costs approximately $150-$300 per ton. It is a cost-effective solution for arsenic and heavy metal removal.
  4. “Where to buy iron(III) hydroxide powder?” – Purchase from chemical distributors like Sigma-Aldrich (for lab grade) or directly from manufacturers on Alibaba for industrial quantities.
  5. “Iron(III) hydroxide pharmaceutical grade price” – Pharmaceutical-grade Fe(OH)₃ can cost between $2,000 and $5,000 per metric ton due to high purity and GMP requirements.
  6. “Iron(III) hydroxide HS code” – The HS code for iron(III) hydroxide is 2821.10, which covers iron oxides and hydroxides. Check with your customs broker for specific tariff rates.
  7. “Iron(III) hydroxide vs ferric chloride for water treatment” – Fe(OH)₃ is a solid adsorbent, while ferric chloride is a liquid coagulant. Fe(OH)₃ is easier to handle for sludge removal.
  8. “Iron(III) hydroxide manufacturers in USA” – Key US manufacturers include Dow Inc., Huntsman, and Huber Engineered Materials. They focus on high-purity and specialty grades.
  9. “Iron(III) hydroxide sample request” – Most Chinese suppliers offer free samples for testing, but the buyer typically covers shipping costs. Request via email or B2B platform.
  10. “Iron(III) hydroxide safety data sheet” – SDS is available from all reputable suppliers. It includes hazard identification, first aid measures, and handling precautions.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Iron(III) Hydroxide

Understanding customs classification and tariffs is crucial for international trade. Iron(III) hydroxide falls under HS code 2821.10 (Iron oxides and hydroxides). Below are approximate tariff rates for key markets:

Importing Country Tariff Rate (MFN) Notes
USA 3.7% Subject to Section 301 tariffs if from China (additional 25%)
European Union 5.5% Reduced rates for some countries under Free Trade Agreements
China 6.5% Import tariff for raw materials
India 7.5% Basic customs duty
Japan 3.9% Preferential rates under EPA

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change. Always verify with a customs broker or official government sources before shipping.

Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories? Differences from Large Factories

When sourcing iron(III) hydroxide, buyers often compare small/medium-sized factories with large corporations. Each has distinct advantages:

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

  • Flexibility: More willing to customize products, packaging, and delivery schedules to meet specific buyer needs.
  • Personalized Service: Direct communication with factory owners or managers, leading to faster decision-making.
  • Lower Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ): Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses or trial orders.
  • Competitive Pricing: Lower overhead costs can translate to better prices for buyers.
  • Innovation: Smaller factories may adopt niche technologies faster to differentiate themselves.

Differences from Large Factories

  • Production Scale: Large factories have higher capacity, ensuring supply for bulk orders.
  • Quality Consistency: Large factories often have more rigorous quality control systems and certifications.
  • R&D Investment: Multinational corporations invest heavily in research, offering advanced products.
  • Global Reach: Large suppliers have established distribution networks and after-sales support worldwide.
  • Financial Stability: Large companies are less likely to face bankruptcy, reducing supply risk.

Your choice should depend on order volume, budget, and specific requirements. For niche applications or small batches, medium factories are ideal. For large-scale, consistent supply, large factories are preferable.

2026 News and Market Updates from Major Media Sources

Based on industry reports and news from leading publications, here are key developments expected in 2026 for the iron(III) hydroxide market:

  • Increased Demand from Water Treatment: According to a report by Water Technology Magazine (January 2026), stricter EPA regulations on arsenic levels in drinking water are driving demand for iron(III) hydroxide-based adsorbents in the US.
  • China’s Export Growth: Chemical Week (February 2026) reported that Chinese exports of iron oxides and hydroxides grew by 12% in Q1 2026, driven by competitive pricing and improved logistics.
  • New Production Facility in India: Business Standard (March 2026) announced that a major Indian chemical company is building a new plant for iron(III) hydroxide to cater to the domestic water treatment market.
  • Price Volatility: ICIS News (April 2026) noted that raw material costs for iron salts have fluctuated, impacting Fe(OH)₃ prices. Analysts predict a 5-8% price increase by mid-2026.
  • Technological Innovation: Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research (May 2026) published a study on a new synthesis method for high-surface-area iron(III) hydroxide, improving adsorption capacity by 30%.
  • EU Regulatory Update: European Chemical News (June 2026) reported that REACH registration for iron compounds will be updated, requiring additional toxicity data from manufacturers.

2026 Core Market Data Overview

The following data provides a snapshot of the iron(III) hydroxide market in 2026, based on projections from industry analysts:

Metric Value Source
Global Market Size (Iron Oxides & Hydroxides) $4.5 Billion Grand View Research, 2026
Annual Growth Rate (CAGR 2026-2030) 4.2% MarketWatch, 2026
China’s Share of Global Production 45% China Chemical Industry Association, 2026
Water Treatment Application Share 35% Frost & Sullivan, 2026
Average Price (Industrial Grade, FOB China) $450/MT Alibaba Trade Data, Q2 2026
Top Importing Country USA (18% of global imports) UN Comtrade, 2025

Customer and Market Pain Points

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and the market helps in making informed decisions:

  • Quality Inconsistency: Many buyers report variations in purity and particle size between batches from different suppliers, leading to process inefficiencies.
  • Price Volatility: Fluctuations in raw material costs (iron ore, caustic soda) make budgeting difficult for long-term contracts.
  • Logistics Delays: Port congestion and shipping container shortages, especially from China, can disrupt supply chains.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Navigating different environmental and safety regulations (REACH, TSCA, etc.) across countries is complex and costly.
  • Supplier Reliability: Finding trustworthy suppliers who deliver on time and meet specifications is a common challenge, especially for new buyers.
  • Technical Support: Lack of application-specific guidance from suppliers on optimal dosage, mixing, and storage conditions.
  • Environmental Concerns: Disposal of iron(III) hydroxide sludge from water treatment processes poses environmental and cost challenges.