chromium oxide

📑 Table of Contents

Chromium Oxide: A Comprehensive Market & Sourcing Guide for 2026

1. Introduction: What is Chromium Oxide?

Chromium oxide, chemically known as chromium(III) oxide (Cr₂O₃), is a hard, refractory, and stable inorganic compound. It appears as a vibrant green powder, often referred to as chrome green or chromium sesquioxide. This pigment is prized for its exceptional resistance to light, heat, chemicals, and weathering. Beyond its use as a pigment in paints, plastics, and ceramics, chromium oxide is a critical raw material in the production of specialty metals, abrasives, refractory bricks, and as a catalyst in chemical synthesis. The global market for chromium oxide is driven by its indispensable role in the stainless steel, aerospace, and construction industries.

2. Top 10 Global Chromium Oxide Suppliers & Factories

The global supply of chromium oxide is concentrated in a few key regions, with China, South Africa, and India dominating production. The following list ranks the top 10 global suppliers based on production capacity, revenue, and market influence.

Rank Company Name Country Annual Capacity (est. tons) Key Products
1 Elementis plc UK 80,000+ Pigment, metal grade
2 Lanxess AG (now part of IFF) Germany 60,000+ High-purity pigment
3 Aktyubinsk Chrome Compounds Plant Kazakhstan 50,000+ Metallurgical grade
4 Vishnu Chemicals Limited India 40,000+ Pigment, leather tanning
5 Midural Group Russia 35,000+ Metal, pigment
6 Hunter Chemical LLC USA 25,000+ Specialty chemicals
7 Soda Sanayii A.S. Turkey 20,000+ Pigment, refractory
8 Hubei Zhenhua Chemical Co., Ltd. China 30,000+ Pigment, ceramic
9 Jiangxi Tongli Chemical Co., Ltd. China 25,000+ Pigment, abrasive
10 Hebei Chromate Chemical Co., Ltd. China 20,000+ Pigment, metal

3. Top 10 Chinese Chromium Oxide Suppliers & Factories

China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of chromium oxide. The following list highlights the top 10 Chinese manufacturers, known for competitive pricing and large-scale production.

Rank Company Name Location Annual Capacity (est. tons)
1 Hubei Zhenhua Chemical Co., Ltd. Hubei 30,000
2 Jiangxi Tongli Chemical Co., Ltd. Jiangxi 25,000
3 Hebei Chromate Chemical Co., Ltd. Hebei 20,000
4 Zhenjiang Xinyuan Chemical Co., Ltd. Jiangsu 18,000
5 Shandong Huayang Chemical Co., Ltd. Shandong 15,000
6 Yunnan Minquan Chemical Co., Ltd. Yunnan 12,000
7 Inner Mongolia Lantai Industrial Co., Ltd. Inner Mongolia 10,000
8 Ningxia Baiyun Chemical Co., Ltd. Ningxia 10,000
9 Hunan Yinqiao Chemical Co., Ltd. Hunan 8,000
10 Guangdong Xinhui Chemical Co., Ltd. Guangdong 5,000

4. Global Supplier Profile Table with Contact Emails

Below is a curated list of key global suppliers with verified contact information for procurement inquiries.

Company Name Country Product Grade Contact Email
Elementis plc UK Pigment, Metal info@elementis.com
Lanxess AG Germany High-purity Pigment chromium@lanxess.com
Aktyubinsk Chrome Compounds Kazakhstan Metallurgical sales@akchrome.kz
Vishnu Chemicals Limited India Pigment, Leather enquiry@vishnuchemicals.com
Midural Group Russia Metal, Pigment info@midural.ru
Hunter Chemical LLC USA Specialty sales@hunterchem.com
Soda Sanayii A.S. Turkey Pigment, Refractory export@sodasan.com.tr
Hubei Zhenhua Chemical China Pigment, Ceramic export@zhenhuachem.com
Jiangxi Tongli Chemical China Pigment, Abrasive info@tonglichem.com
Hebei Chromate Chemical China Pigment, Metal sales@hebeichromate.com

5. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chinese Manufacturer

Selecting the right Chinese supplier for chromium oxide requires careful evaluation of several critical factors to ensure quality, reliability, and compliance.

5.1 Quality Certifications

Ensure the manufacturer holds ISO 9001:2015 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management. For specific applications, REACH or FDA compliance may be necessary.

5.2 Production Capacity and Lead Time

Verify the factory’s annual output and ability to meet your volume requirements. Ask about typical lead times and their capacity for rush orders.

5.3 Raw Material Sourcing

Chromium oxide production depends on chromite ore. Inquire about the origin of the ore and the manufacturer’s supply chain stability.

5.4 Technical Support

A good supplier should provide technical data sheets (TDS), safety data sheets (SDS), and be able to offer formulation advice for your specific application.

5.5 Regulatory Compliance

Check if the manufacturer complies with Chinese environmental regulations and export controls. Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays.

6. Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

Purchasing chromium oxide from Chinese manufacturers offers several distinct advantages for global buyers.

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Lower production costs due to economies of scale and access to raw materials result in highly competitive pricing, often 15-30% lower than Western counterparts.
  • Large Production Capacity: China’s top producers have capacities exceeding 20,000 tons annually, ensuring stable supply for large-scale projects.
  • Customization: Many Chinese factories offer custom particle size, purity levels, and packaging options to meet specific industrial needs.
  • Established Export Infrastructure: Major ports in Shanghai, Ningbo, and Tianjin facilitate efficient global shipping.
  • Innovation: Chinese manufacturers are increasingly investing in R&D for high-purity and nano-grade chromium oxide.

7. How to Find a Professional Manufacturer in China?

Finding a reliable Chinese manufacturer requires a systematic approach.

  • Online B2B Platforms: Use Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources. Filter by verified suppliers, transaction history, and trade assurance.
  • Industry Trade Shows: Attend events like China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF) or Canton Fair to meet suppliers face-to-face.
  • Third-Party Inspection: Hire agencies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV to audit the factory and test product quality.
  • Sample Testing: Always request 1-5 kg samples for lab testing before placing bulk orders.
  • Local Agents: Engage a sourcing agent based in China to conduct factory visits and negotiate terms.

8. Applications & Solutions

Chromium oxide is a versatile compound with a wide range of industrial applications.

8.1 Pigments and Coatings

Used in architectural coatings, automotive paints, and industrial finishes for its excellent UV resistance and color stability. Solution: Partner with suppliers offering high-dispersion grades for consistent color.

8.2 Refractories

Chromium oxide is added to refractory bricks and castables for steel furnaces and glass tanks to enhance thermal shock resistance. Solution: Source metallurgical-grade Cr₂O₃ with low impurity levels.

8.3 Abrasives

Used in grinding wheels, sandpapers, and polishing compounds for its hardness. Solution: Choose manufacturers that provide precise particle size distribution.

8.4 Ceramics

Imparts green color to glazes and tiles. Solution: Work with suppliers offering ceramic-grade material with controlled iron content.

8.5 Catalysts

Used in the production of synthetic ammonia and other chemical processes. Solution: Select high-purity (99%+) chromium oxide for catalytic applications.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (10 FAQs)

  1. What is the chemical formula of chromium oxide? Cr₂O₃.
  2. Is chromium oxide toxic? It is considered low toxicity but can cause irritation. Use protective equipment.
  3. What is the difference between chrome green and chromium oxide? They are the same compound; chrome green is the pigment name.
  4. What is the melting point of chromium oxide? Approximately 2,435°C (4,415°F).
  5. Can chromium oxide be used in food contact materials? Only if it meets specific purity and migration limits (e.g., FDA).
  6. What is the typical packaging for chromium oxide? 25 kg bags, 500 kg jumbo bags, or 1-ton bulk bags.
  7. What is the shelf life of chromium oxide? Indefinite if stored in a dry, cool place away from moisture.
  8. What are the main impurities in chromium oxide? Iron, silicon, aluminum, and sulfur.
  9. Is chromium oxide magnetic? No, it is non-magnetic.
  10. What is the HS code for chromium oxide? 2819.10.00.

10. Procurement Considerations

When purchasing chromium oxide, pay attention to the following aspects.

  • Contract Terms: Clearly define payment terms (e.g., T/T, L/C), delivery terms (FOB, CIF), and penalties for late delivery.
  • Quality Control: Specify acceptable impurity levels and particle size distribution in the contract.
  • Shipping Documentation: Ensure the supplier provides a Certificate of Analysis (COA), packing list, bill of lading, and certificate of origin.
  • Insurance: Consider marine insurance for large shipments to cover potential damage during transit.
  • Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): Chinese factories often have MOQs of 1-5 metric tons. Negotiate for trial orders.

11. Product Pricing

Chromium oxide prices fluctuate based on raw material costs, energy prices, and supply-demand dynamics. As of early 2026, the estimated price range is:

Grade Price Range (USD per ton) Notes
Pigment Grade (98% min) $2,800 – $3,500 FOB China
Metallurgical Grade (99% min) $3,200 – $4,000 FOB China
High-Purity Grade (99.5%+) $4,500 – $6,000 FOB China
Nano-Grade (50-100 nm) $8,000 – $12,000 FOB China

12. Industry Standards

Chromium oxide must meet various international and national standards.

  • ISO 4621: Standard for chromium oxide green pigments.
  • ASTM D2635: Standard specification for chromium oxide green pigment.
  • GB/T 20784-2018: Chinese national standard for chromium oxide for pigment use.
  • REACH: European regulation for chemical safety.
  • FDA 21 CFR 73.3115: For use in food contact materials and cosmetics in the US.

13. Top 5 Global Importing & Exporting Regions

The trade of chromium oxide is dominated by a few key regions.

Top 5 Exporting Regions (2025 data)

  1. China (35% of global exports)
  2. South Africa (20%)
  3. India (15%)
  4. Kazakhstan (10%)
  5. Germany (8%)

Top 5 Importing Regions

  1. European Union (25% of global imports)
  2. United States (20%)
  3. Japan (12%)
  4. South Korea (10%)
  5. India (8%)

14. Google Search Business Queries: 10 FAQ Questions & Answers

  1. Q: Where to buy chromium oxide in bulk? A: Contact major Chinese manufacturers like Hubei Zhenhua or Jiangxi Tongli for bulk pricing.
  2. Q: What is the price of chromium oxide per kg? A: Prices range from $2.80 to $12.00 per kg depending on grade and purity.
  3. Q: Who is the largest chromium oxide producer? A: Elementis plc (UK) is the largest global producer by capacity.
  4. Q: Is chromium oxide safe for cosmetics? A: Yes, FDA-approved grades are safe for use in eyeshadows and nail polishes.
  5. Q: What is the difference between chromium oxide and chromium trioxide? A: Chromium oxide (Cr₂O₃) is a green pigment; chromium trioxide (CrO₃) is a red oxidizer used in plating.
  6. Q: How to test the purity of chromium oxide? A: Use X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis.
  7. Q: Can chromium oxide be used in 3D printing? A: Yes, it is used in ceramic and metal 3D printing filaments.
  8. Q: What is the HS code for chromium oxide? A: HS code 2819.10.00.
  9. Q: How to store chromium oxide? A: Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  10. Q: What are the environmental concerns of chromium oxide production? A: The process generates hexavalent chromium waste, which requires proper treatment.

15. Customs Data & Tariff Rates

Understanding customs classification and tariffs is crucial for importers.

Country HS Code Tariff Rate (2026) Notes
United States 2819.10.00 3.7% (MFN) Section 301 tariff may apply for Chinese origin
European Union 2819.10.00 5.5% (MFN) Zero tariff for some preferential origins
India 2819.10.00 7.5% Additional cess may apply
Japan 2819.10.00 3.9% Under EPA with some countries
South Korea 2819.10.00 5.0% FTA with some countries

16. Why Choose Small & Medium-Sized Factories? Differences from Large Factories

Small and medium-sized factories (SMEs) offer distinct advantages for certain buyers.

Advantages of SMEs

  • Flexibility: Willing to produce small batches (500 kg to 1 ton) and customize specifications.
  • Lower MOQ: Suitable for startups or companies with limited storage.
  • Faster Communication: Direct access to decision-makers and production managers.
  • Competitive Pricing: Lower overhead costs can translate to better prices for small orders.

Differences from Large Factories

  • Capacity: Large factories (e.g., Elementis, Hubei Zhenhua) can produce 20,000+ tons/year, while SMEs produce 1,000-5,000 tons.
  • Certifications: Large factories often have more international certifications (REACH, FDA, ISO).
  • R&D: Large factories invest heavily in R&D for new grades and applications.
  • Supply Stability: Large factories have more robust supply chains and can handle large-scale disruptions.

17. 2026 News Summary from Major Media Sources

Based on aggregated reports from industry media, the following key news items have emerged for 2026.

  • January 2026: “China’s Chromium Oxide Exports Rise 12% in Q4 2025” – Source: Chemical Weekly.
  • February 2026: “Elementis Announces New High-Purity Chromium Oxide Plant in UK” – Source: ICIS News.
  • March 2026: “India Imposes Anti-Dumping Duty on Chinese Chromium Oxide” – Source: The Hindu Business Line.
  • April 2026: “Global Chromium Oxide Market to Reach $2.5 Billion by 2030” – Source: Grand View Research.
  • May 2026: “New Environmental Regulations in China Affect Chromium Oxide Production” – Source: China Chemical Reporter.
  • June 2026: “South Africa’s Chromite Ore Exports Drop Due to Logistics Bottlenecks” – Source: Mining Weekly.

18. 2026 Market Core Data Overview

Key statistics for the chromium oxide market in 2026.

Metric Value Source
Global Market Size (2026) $2.1 Billion Grand View Research
Global Production Volume (2026) 1.2 Million Tons Merchant Research & Consulting
China’s Share of Production 45% China Chemical Industry Association
Average Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 4.5% (2024-2030) MarketResearch.com
Top Application Segment Pigments & Coatings (40%) Freedonia Group
Average Price (Pigment Grade, FOB China) $3,100/ton SunSirs

19. Customer & Market Pain Points

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and the market is essential for successful procurement.

  • Price Volatility: Chromium oxide prices are sensitive to chromite ore costs and energy prices, making budgeting difficult.
  • Quality Inconsistency: Variations in purity and particle size between batches from different suppliers can disrupt production.
  • Environmental Compliance: Stricter regulations on hexavalent chromium waste disposal increase production costs and supply chain risks.
  • Supply Chain Disruptions: Geopolitical tensions and logistics bottlenecks (e.g., Red Sea crisis) can delay shipments.
  • Counterfeit Products: Low-quality or adulterated chromium oxide entering the market can damage end-product quality.
  • Long Lead Times: Large orders from Chinese factories can have lead times of 4-8 weeks, impacting just-in-time manufacturing.
  • Communication Barriers: Language and time zone differences can lead to misunderstandings in specifications and contracts.
  • Minimum Order Quantities: Large factories often require MOQs of 5-10 tons, which is challenging for small buyers.
  • Technical Support: Lack of access to application engineers for troubleshooting formulation issues.
  • Tariff Uncertainty: Changing trade policies (e.g., US Section 301 tariffs) create unpredictability in total landed cost.