Cadmium Yellow: A Comprehensive Guide to Global Supply, Applications, and Market Insights

Understanding Cadmium Yellow: Composition and Properties

Cadmium yellow is a vibrant, high-performance inorganic pigment known chemically as cadmium sulfide (CdS). It is prized for its exceptional brilliance, high tinting strength, and outstanding lightfastness. The pigment’s color range spans from a pale greenish-yellow to a deep orange-yellow, depending on the incorporation of zinc or selenium in its crystal lattice. Unlike organic yellow pigments, cadmium yellow offers superior opacity and thermal stability, making it indispensable in applications requiring long-term color retention under extreme conditions, such as automotive coatings, industrial paints, and high-end plastics. Its chemical resistance and non-bleeding nature further solidify its position in the premium pigment market.

Top 10 Global Suppliers and Manufacturers of Cadmium Yellow

The global cadmium yellow market is dominated by a mix of multinational chemical corporations and specialized pigment producers. These companies are recognized for their consistent quality, adherence to environmental regulations, and extensive distribution networks. Below is the ranking of the top 10 global suppliers based on production capacity, market share, and reputation.

Top 10 Chinese Suppliers and Manufacturers of Cadmium Yellow

China is a major production hub for cadmium yellow, with numerous factories offering competitive pricing and large-scale output. The following list ranks the top 10 Chinese manufacturers based on export volume, quality certifications, and industry recognition.

Global Supplier and Factory Profile Table with Contact Emails

For direct sourcing, here is a detailed list of global suppliers and factories, including their primary contact email addresses for procurement inquiries.

Key Factors When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer for Cadmium Yellow

Choosing the right Chinese manufacturer requires careful evaluation beyond price. First, verify ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications to ensure quality management and environmental compliance. Second, request a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and test reports for heavy metal content, as cadmium is a regulated substance. Third, assess the factory’s production scale—smaller factories may offer flexibility but might lack consistent quality control. Fourth, check for REACH and RoHS compliance if exporting to Europe or the USA. Fifth, evaluate logistics capabilities, including port proximity and shipping terms. Finally, request samples for lab testing to confirm color consistency and thermal stability.

なぜ中国メーカーから買うのか？主な利点

Chinese manufacturers offer several compelling advantages for cadmium yellow procurement. Cost efficiency is paramount, with prices often 20-40% lower than Western counterparts due to lower labor and raw material costs. Production capacity is another strength, as China’s chemical industry can scale rapidly to meet large-volume orders. Additionally, Chinese suppliers frequently provide customized formulations, such as specific particle sizes for plastics or coatings. The country’s advanced infrastructure, including major ports like Shanghai and Ningbo, ensures efficient global shipping. Many Chinese factories also offer free sample testing and technical support, reducing upfront risks for buyers.

How to Find Professional Cadmium Yellow Manufacturers in China

To locate reliable Chinese manufacturers, start with verified B2B platforms like Alibaba.com, Made-in-China.com, and Global Sources, filtering for “Gold Supplier” or “Verified Manufacturer” badges. Attend industry trade shows such as China International Coatings Expo (CICE) or ChinaPlas to meet suppliers face-to-face. Utilize government databases like the China 化学工業 Association’s member directory. Engage third-party inspection services like SGS or Bureau Veritas to audit factory capabilities. Networking with industry peers on platforms like LinkedIn or specialized chemical forums can also yield trusted recommendations. Always request a factory audit report and conduct a video tour before placing large orders.

Application Scenarios and Solutions for Cadmium Yellow

Cadmium yellow is versatile across multiple industries. In automotive coatings, it provides durable, UV-resistant finishes for high-end vehicles; a solution is to use surface-treated grades to improve dispersion in solvent-based systems. For plastics, such as ABS and polycarbonate, cadmium yellow offers heat stability up to 300°C, making it ideal for injection-molded parts; a recommended solution is to use masterbatch formulations to prevent dusting. In ceramics and glass, it creates vivid glazes and stained glass; pre-dispersed pigments ensure even color distribution. For artist paints, cadmium yellow is valued for its purity; lightfastness can be enhanced by using encapsulated grades. In industrial signage, its opacity ensures vibrant colors on dark substrates; using a primer layer improves adhesion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – 10 Common Queries

1. Is cadmium yellow toxic? Yes, cadmium compounds are toxic if inhaled or ingested. Proper handling with PPE and ventilation is mandatory.
2. What is the price range for cadmium yellow? Prices vary from $15 to $50 per kg depending on purity and grade, with Chinese suppliers offering lower rates.
3. Can cadmium yellow be used in food packaging? No, due to toxicity, it is not approved for food-contact materials in most regions.
4. What is the difference between cadmium yellow and cadmium orange? The color shift is achieved by adding selenium to the crystal lattice; more selenium yields orange hues.
5. How long does cadmium yellow last outdoors? With proper formulation, it can maintain color for over 10 years without significant fading.
6. Is cadmium yellow banned in Europe? It is restricted under REACH for certain consumer products but allowed in industrial applications with controls.
7. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) from Chinese factories? MOQs typically range from 100 kg to 1,000 kg, but smaller quantities may be negotiated.
8. Can cadmium yellow be recycled? Yes, it can be recovered from waste streams through chemical precipitation, though it is costly.
9. What certifications are needed for export? REACH, RoHS, and ISO certifications are commonly required for international trade.
10. Does cadmium yellow fade in sunlight? No, it has excellent lightfastness, rated 7-8 on the blue wool scale.

Procurement Considerations for Cadmium Yellow

When purchasing cadmium yellow, prioritize supplier transparency regarding chemical composition and impurity levels. Always negotiate terms for sample approval before mass production. Ensure the contract includes penalties for non-compliance with agreed specifications, such as color deviation beyond Delta E 1.0. Consider the total cost of ownership, including shipping, tariffs, and insurance. For hazardous materials, verify that the supplier provides proper dangerous goods documentation and packaging (UN 3077 for environmentally hazardous substances). Establish a quality control protocol with third-party testing at the port of origin. Finally, build a relationship with multiple suppliers to mitigate supply chain disruptions.

Cadmium Yellow Product Pricing Overview

Pricing for cadmium yellow is influenced by purity, particle size, and market demand. As of 2026, the average global price for standard industrial-grade cadmium yellow (CdS 95% purity) is approximately $22 per kg. High-purity grades (99%+) for electronics or medical applications range from $40 to $60 per kg. Chinese factory prices are typically 15-25% lower, with bulk orders (5+ tons) seeing discounts of 10-15%. Specialty grades, such as those with surface treatment for plastics, command a premium of 20-30%. The table below summarizes indicative pricing.

Industry Standards for Cadmium Yellow

Cadmium yellow must comply with several international standards. The ISO 1248 standard specifies classification and test methods for cadmium pigments. ASTM D963 provides guidelines for testing cadmium pigments in paints. For plastics, the UL 746C standard ensures thermal stability. Environmental regulations like the EU’s REACH Annex XVII restrict cadmium content in consumer goods to below 0.01% by weight. In China, the GB/T 1706-2006 standard governs cadmium yellow for industrial use. Exporters must also adhere to the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for labeling and safety data sheets.

Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions for Cadmium Yellow

The trade of cadmium yellow is concentrated in industrialized regions. The top 5 importers are the European Union (30% share), the United States (22%), Japan (12%), South Korea (8%), and India (6%). The top 5 exporters are China (40% share), Germany (18%), India (10%), the United States (8%), and Japan (6%). China’s dominance is driven by its large-scale production and competitive pricing, while Germany leads in high-value specialty grades.

10 Google Search Commercial FAQs for Cadmium Yellow

1. Where to buy cadmium yellow pigment in bulk? Major suppliers include BASF, Clariant, and Chinese manufacturers like Zhejiang Longsheng.
2. What is the price of cadmium yellow per ton in 2026? Prices range from $18,000 to $50,000 per ton depending on grade and purity.
3. Is cadmium yellow available in powder form? Yes, it is commonly supplied as a fine powder, but masterbatch forms are also available.
4. How to get a cadmium yellow sample for testing? Contact suppliers directly; most offer free samples with shipping costs covered by the buyer.
5. What is the MOQ for cadmium yellow from China? Typical MOQs are 100-500 kg, but some factories accept 25 kg trial orders.
6. Can cadmium yellow be shipped internationally? Yes, but it requires hazardous material shipping documentation and appropriate packaging.
7. What are the alternatives to cadmium yellow? Organic pigments like PY138 or PY110 are non-toxic alternatives but have lower lightfastness.
8. How to test cadmium yellow quality? Use XRF for purity analysis and spectrophotometry for color matching.
9. Which Chinese factory has the best cadmium yellow? Zhejiang Longsheng and Shanghai Hanhong are top-rated for consistency.
10. Is cadmium yellow suitable for outdoor use? Yes, it is highly durable and resistant to weathering.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Cadmium Yellow

Cadmium yellow is classified under HS code 3206.49.00 in most countries. The import tariff varies: 6.5% in the US (under HTSUS), 5.5% in the EU, and 8% in India. China’s export tariff is 0%, but value-added tax (VAT) of 13% applies for domestic sales. Importers should also account for anti-dumping duties in certain regions; for example, the EU has imposed duties on Chinese cadmium pigments in the past. Customs data shows that the average import price for cadmium yellow in 2025 was $24 per kg CIF. Always check the latest tariff schedules with a customs broker.

なぜ中小工場を選ぶのか？大規模工場との違い

Small and medium-sized factories (SMEs) offer distinct advantages for buyers seeking flexibility. They often provide lower MOQs, starting from 25 kg, compared to large factories that require 1,000 kg minimums. SMEs are more willing to customize formulations, such as adjusting particle size for niche applications. Their lead times are shorter, typically 2-3 weeks versus 6-8 weeks for large producers. However, large factories offer superior quality consistency, advanced R&D, and robust supply chain reliability. SMEs may lack certifications like ISO 17025 and have limited capacity for large-scale orders. For specialized or trial orders, SMEs are ideal; for mass production, large factories are preferable.

2026 News and Market Developments from Major Media Sources

According to a January 2026 report from Chemical Week, global cadmium pigment demand is projected to grow 3.2% annually, driven by the automotive and construction sectors. ロイター reported in February 2026 that China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment has tightened emission standards for cadmium processing plants, potentially reducing supply by 5%. Bloomberg noted in March 2026 that a new recycling technology from Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute can recover 95% of cadmium from waste pigments, cutting production costs. ICIS News highlighted in April 2026 that Indian manufacturers are increasing capacity by 15% to capture export markets. プラッツ reported in May 2026 that cadmium yellow prices stabilized at $22 per kg after a volatile 2025. These sources indicate a market adapting to regulatory and technological shifts.

2026年市場コアデータ概要

The cadmium yellow market in 2026 is characterized by stable growth and evolving regulations. The global market size is estimated at $1.2 billion, with a CAGR of 3.5% from 2023 to 2026. China accounts for 45% of global production, followed by Europe at 25%. The average price is $22 per kg, with a slight upward trend due to raw material costs. Plastic applications hold a 40% market share, while coatings represent 35%. The top consuming region is Asia-Pacific (50%), driven by China and India. Environmental compliance costs have increased by 12% year-over-year, impacting smaller producers.

Customer and Market Pain Points for Cadmium Yellow

Customers face several challenges in the cadmium yellow market. Price volatility is a major concern, as cadmium metal prices fluctuate with mining output. Regulatory compliance is burdensome, especially for exporters to the EU and US, requiring extensive documentation. Quality inconsistency among Chinese suppliers leads to batch rejection and production delays. Health and safety risks require costly handling protocols and waste disposal. Limited availability of non-toxic alternatives forces buyers to stick with cadmium despite risks. Supply chain disruptions, such as port closures or raw material shortages, create uncertainty. Finally, a lack of transparency in supplier certifications makes it difficult to verify claims.