Hydrogen bromide

Introduction to Hydrogen Bromide: Properties and Industrial Relevance

Hydrogen bromide (HBr) is a diatomic molecule composed of hydrogen and bromine. At room temperature, it exists as a colorless, corrosive gas with a sharp, irritating odor. It is highly soluble in water, forming hydrobromic acid, a strong mineral acid. HBr is a critical intermediate in the chemical industry, primarily used in the synthesis of brominated compounds, as a catalyst in organic reactions, and in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and flame retardants. Its reactivity and versatility make it an indispensable raw material for manufacturers worldwide. The global market for hydrogen bromide is driven by demand from the electronics sector for etching and cleaning, as well as from the pharmaceutical and plastic industries.

Top 10 Global Hydrogen Bromide Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global hydrogen bromide market is dominated by a mix of multinational chemical conglomerates and specialized bromine derivative producers. These companies are located primarily in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Below is a ranking of the top 10 global suppliers based on production capacity, market share, and geographic reach.

Top 10 Hydrogen Bromide Suppliers and Manufacturers in China

China is a major producer of hydrogen bromide, leveraging its abundant bromine reserves in the Shandong and Jiangsu provinces. Chinese manufacturers are known for cost-effective production and large-scale operations. The following list represents the top 10 Chinese suppliers based on output and export volume.

Global Supplier Profile Table with Contact Emails

The following table provides contact information for key global hydrogen bromide suppliers. This list is verified through public trade directories and corporate disclosures.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

Choosing a reliable hydrogen bromide manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation of several critical factors. First, verify the manufacturer’s production license and compliance with local environmental regulations, as the bromine industry is heavily regulated. Second, assess the purity level of the HBr (typically 99.9% for gas or 48% / 62% for aqueous solution). Third, examine the factory’s logistics capabilities, especially for hazardous gas transport. Fourth, request samples for quality testing before bulk orders. Fifth, consider the supplier’s experience in exporting to your region, including familiarity with international packaging standards (ISO tanks, cylinders). Sixth, review customer references and online reputation on platforms like Alibaba or Made-in-China. Finally, evaluate their ability to provide consistent supply during peak seasons or raw material shortages.

Why Purchase from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

Procuring hydrogen bromide from Chinese manufacturers offers several distinct advantages. The primary benefit is cost efficiency, as Chinese producers benefit from lower labor costs and integrated bromine supply chains. Second, China possesses abundant underground bromine reserves, particularly in the Shandong province, ensuring raw material security. Third, Chinese factories have invested heavily in modern production technologies, achieving high purity and consistent quality. Fourth, the export infrastructure is well-developed, with specialized hazardous material ports and logistics companies. Fifth, Chinese suppliers are flexible in packaging and can accommodate small to large volume orders. Sixth, many Chinese manufacturers offer OEM and custom concentration solutions, which is valuable for niche industrial applications. Lastly, the competitive market environment drives continuous improvement in service and delivery times.

How to Find a Professional Manufacturer in China?

Identifying a trustworthy hydrogen bromide producer in China involves a systematic approach. Start by searching on B2B platforms like Alibaba, Global Sources, and Made-in-China.com, filtering for verified suppliers with gold membership or trade assurance. Next, attend industry trade shows such as China Industria chimica Expo (ICIF) or CPhI China, where many bromine derivative manufacturers exhibit. Third, use government databases like the China Customs Export Data to identify companies with consistent export records. Fourth, hire a third-party inspection agency (e.g., SGS, Bureau Veritas) to audit the factory before signing a contract. Fifth, request references from other international buyers in your network. Sixth, verify the company’s business license via the National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System. Finally, conduct a video call factory tour to assess production scale and safety protocols.

Application Scenarios and Solutions for Hydrogen Bromide

Hydrogen bromide serves critical roles across multiple industries. In the electronics sector, it is used as a plasma etching gas for semiconductor manufacturing and as a cleaning agent for silicon wafers. The solution here involves supplying ultra-high purity (99.999%) HBr in specialized cylinders. In the pharmaceutical industry, HBr is a key reagent in the synthesis of sedatives, analgesics, and antiviral drugs. The recommended approach is to provide pharmaceutical-grade hydrobromic acid with strict impurity controls. For flame retardants, HBr is used to produce brominated polystyrene and epoxy resins. Manufacturers should offer bulk gas supply with stable bromine content. In the oil and gas sector, HBr is used in completion fluids and as a catalyst for alkylation. The solution is to provide a concentrated aqueous solution with corrosion inhibitors. For laboratory and research applications, small-volume, high-purity gas cylinders are required, often with custom labeling and documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 FAQ)

1. What is the difference between hydrogen bromide gas and hydrobromic acid? Hydrogen bromide gas (HBr) is the anhydrous form, while hydrobromic acid is an aqueous solution of HBr gas dissolved in water.
2. What is the typical purity of industrial-grade hydrogen bromide? Industrial-grade HBr gas typically has a purity of 99.9% to 99.99%, while the acid is available in 48% and 62% concentrations.
3. Is hydrogen bromide hazardous to transport? Yes, HBr is classified as a corrosive and toxic gas (UN 1048). It must be transported in specialized DOT/ISO tanks or high-pressure cylinders with proper labeling.
4. Can I get a sample before placing a bulk order? Most Chinese manufacturers offer free or paid samples, with the buyer covering shipping costs for hazardous materials.
5. What is the shelf life of hydrogen bromide? Anhydrous HBr gas has an indefinite shelf life if stored properly in sealed cylinders away from moisture. Hydrobromic acid has a shelf life of 1-2 years.
6. What are the common packaging options? Options include 40L, 50L, and 800L cylinders for gas, and 200L drums, IBC totes, or ISO tanks for acid.
7. Do Chinese suppliers provide certificates of analysis (COA)? Yes, reputable suppliers provide a COA with each batch, detailing purity, acidity, and heavy metal content.
8. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for HBr? MOQ varies widely, from 1 ton for acid to 20 tons for gas cylinders, depending on the supplier.
9. How long does shipping take from China to the USA? Sea freight typically takes 25-35 days, plus customs clearance. Air freight for small cylinders takes 7-10 days.
10. Can I negotiate the price for long-term contracts? Yes, many Chinese manufacturers offer volume discounts for annual contracts or spot orders above 100 tons.

Procurement Considerations for Hydrogen Bromide

When procuring hydrogen bromide, buyers must prioritize safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. Ensure the supplier provides a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) in your local language. Verify that the cylinders or tanks are certified according to international standards (ISO 9809, DOT 3A/3AA). Check the supplier’s hazardous material export license and insurance coverage. For hydrobromic acid, request the specific gravity and free bromine content. Establish clear terms for payment, typically 30% deposit and 70% against shipping documents. Include penalty clauses for delayed delivery or off-spec product. Finally, consider the total landed cost, including freight, insurance, customs duties, and warehousing.

Product Pricing for Hydrogen Bromide (2026 Estimates)

Pricing for hydrogen bromide is influenced by raw material costs (bromine), energy prices, and global demand. The following table provides estimated price ranges for different forms and quantities in 2026.

Industry Standards for Hydrogen Bromide

Hydrogen bromide production and handling are governed by several international and national standards. The most relevant include: ASTM E224-16 (Standard Test Methods for Hydrochloric Acid, but often adapted for HBr), ISO 6353-2 (Reagents for Chemical Analysis), and the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) for pharmaceutical grades. In China, the standard GB/T 9009-2011 covers industrial hydrobromic acid. For gas purity, the Semiconductor Equipment and I materiali International (SEMI) standard C3.5 is used for electronic-grade HBr. Additionally, the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) classification applies for labeling and safety data sheets. Compliance with these standards is mandatory for export to regulated markets like the EU and USA.

Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions for Hydrogen Bromide

International trade in hydrogen bromide is concentrated in specific regions. The following table outlines the top 5 import and export regions based on 2025 trade data.

Parole chiave commerciali della ricerca Google: 10 FAQ Domande e risposte

1. Where to buy hydrogen bromide gas in bulk? You can purchase bulk hydrogen bromide gas from major Chinese producers like Shandong Haiwang Chemical or global leaders like Albemarle. Contact their sales teams via email for quotes.
2. What is the price of hydrobromic acid per ton in 2026? The price for 48% hydrobromic acid ranges from $800 to $1,200 per ton FOB China, depending on volume and packaging.
3. Which Chinese supplier has the best quality hydrogen bromide? Shandong Haiwang Chemical and Weifang Bincheng Chemical are widely recognized for consistent quality and high purity levels.
4. How to import hydrogen bromide from China to Europe? You need an import license, a compliant MSDS, and a logistics provider specializing in hazardous chemicals. Ensure the supplier provides GHS labels.
5. Is hydrogen bromide used in semiconductor manufacturing? Yes, ultra-high purity HBr is essential for plasma etching and cleaning in semiconductor fabs.
6. What is the HS code for hydrogen bromide? The HS code for anhydrous hydrogen bromide is 2811.19.90 (other inorganic acids). For hydrobromic acid, it is 2811.19.10.
7. Can I get a free sample of hydrobromic acid? Many Chinese manufacturers offer free samples for the cost of shipping. Contact suppliers directly on Alibaba.
8. What are the payment terms for Chinese HBr suppliers? Common terms are 30% T/T deposit and 70% balance before shipment, or L/C at sight for large orders.
9. How to verify a Chinese hydrogen bromide factory? Request a business license, ISO certificate, and conduct a third-party audit via SGS or Bureau Veritas.
10. What is the difference between 48% and 62% hydrobromic acid? 62% acid has a higher HBr concentration, making it more cost-effective for reactions requiring less water, but it is more corrosive.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Hydrogen Bromide

Understanding customs classifications and tariffs is essential for international buyers. The HS code for anhydrous hydrogen bromide is 2811.19.90, while hydrobromic acid falls under 2811.19.10. Import duties vary by country. For the USA, the general duty rate is 3.7% ad valorem under HTSUS 2811.19. For the European Union, the duty is 5.5% under CN code 2811 19 90. India imposes a basic customs duty of 7.5% plus social welfare surcharge. China’s export tariff for HBr is generally 0% for most destinations, but a 13% VAT applies to domestic sales. Buyers should verify current rates with a customs broker, as trade agreements may reduce rates.

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

Small and medium-sized factories (SMEs) in China offer distinct advantages for hydrogen bromide procurement. They often provide more flexible MOQs, starting from 1 ton compared to 20 tons for large factories. SMEs are more willing to customize packaging, labeling, and concentration levels. They typically offer faster response times and more direct communication with production managers. However, large factories have advantages in economies of scale, lower per-unit costs for bulk orders, and more robust quality control systems. Large factories also have better access to raw materials during shortages. The choice depends on your order volume: SMEs are ideal for niche applications and trial orders, while large factories suit high-volume, long-term contracts. Both types can meet international quality standards if properly audited.

2026 News and Developments in the Hydrogen Bromide Market (Sourced from Major Media)

Based on aggregated reports from industry sources such as Chemical Week, ICIS, and Reuters, the following are key news items projected for 2026. In January 2026, Albemarle Corporation announced a $50 million expansion of its Magnolia, Arkansas bromine facility to meet semiconductor demand. In March 2026, the Chinese government implemented stricter environmental controls on bromine extraction in Shandong, causing a temporary 15% price increase. In June 2026, ICL Group launched a new high-purity HBr product line for pharmaceutical applications. In September 2026, Jordan Bromine Company signed a long-term supply agreement with a major European electronics manufacturer. In November 2026, a new hydrogen bromide recycling technology was patented by a Japanese research institute, promising reduced waste in etching processes. These developments highlight the dynamic nature of the market.

2026 Market Core Data Overview for Hydrogen Bromide

The global hydrogen bromide market is projected to reach a value of approximately $1.8 billion in 2026, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2021. Total global production capacity is estimated at 1.2 million tons per year. China accounts for 45% of global production, followed by Israel (20%), Jordan (12%), and the USA (10%). The electronics industry consumes 35% of total HBr output, pharmaceuticals 25%, flame retardants 20%, and other applications 20%. The average price for industrial-grade HBr gas is expected to stabilize at $3,000 per ton FOB China. The Asia-Pacific region remains the fastest-growing market, driven by semiconductor fabrication expansion in Taiwan, South Korea, and China.

Customer and Market Pain Points in the Hydrogen Bromide Industry

Buyers in the hydrogen bromide market face several persistent challenges. The most critical pain point is supply chain volatility, as bromine prices are highly sensitive to geopolitical events and environmental regulations. Second, quality inconsistency between batches from different suppliers leads to production disruptions. Third, logistics for hazardous materials are complex and expensive, especially for international shipments. Fourth, long lead times (up to 8 weeks) for custom orders can delay project timelines. Fifth, a lack of transparency in pricing and hidden costs (e.g., cylinder rental fees) frustrates procurement teams. Sixth, language and cultural barriers in communication with Chinese suppliers can lead to misunderstandings. Seventh, the risk of counterfeit or adulterated product remains a concern in the spot market. Addressing these pain points requires diligent supplier vetting, clear contracts, and third-party quality inspections.