Cobalt chloride

目次

Introduction to Cobalt Chloride: Properties and Industrial Relevance

Cobalt chloride (CoCl₂) is an inorganic compound that appears as blue crystals in its anhydrous form and transitions to a pink hue when hydrated (CoCl₂·6H₂O). This color change is a classic indicator of humidity, making it a staple in desiccant applications. Beyond its use as a moisture indicator, cobalt chloride is a critical raw material in the production of catalysts, pigments, and rechargeable batteries. It serves as a precursor for cobalt metal and other cobalt salts, playing a pivotal role in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and metallurgical industries. The global demand for cobalt chloride is closely tied to the expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) market and advanced energy storage systems, where it is used in the synthesis of cobalt-based cathode materials.

Global Top 10 Cobalt Chloride Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global cobalt chloride market is concentrated, with key players operating in China, Europe, and North America. The following table lists the top 10 suppliers based on production capacity, market share, and global reach.

順位 会社名 国名 Annual Production Capacity (MT)
1 Umicore ベルギー 12,000
2 Freeport Cobalt (JX Nippon) フィンランド 10,500
3 Huayou Cobalt 中国 15,000
4 GEM Co., Ltd. 中国 14,000
5 Jinchuan Group 中国 13,000
6 Norilsk Nickel ロシア 9,000
7 Glencore スイス 8,500
8 Sumitomo Metal Mining 日本 7,000
9 Hanrui Cobalt 中国 11,000
10 Nantong Xinwei 中国 6,000

Top 10 Cobalt Chloride Suppliers and Factories in China

China dominates global cobalt chloride production, accounting for over 60% of total output. The following list highlights the leading Chinese manufacturers, known for their scale, cost-efficiency, and integration with the battery supply chain.

順位 会社名 所在地 主要製品
1 Huayou Cobalt Co., Ltd. 浙江省 Cobalt chloride, cobalt sulfate, precursors
2 GEM Co., Ltd. 深セン Cobalt powder, cobalt chloride, battery materials
3 Jinchuan Group Co., Ltd. Gansu Electrolytic cobalt, cobalt chloride
4 Hanrui Cobalt Co., Ltd. 江西省 Cobalt oxide, cobalt chloride
5 Nantong Xinwei Chemical Co., Ltd. 江蘇省 High-purity cobalt chloride
6 Zhejiang Huayou New Energy 浙江省 Cobalt salt, battery-grade materials
7 Jiangxi Tungsten Holding Group 江西省 Cobalt products, tungsten
8 Guangdong Jiana Energy 広東省 Cobalt recycling, cobalt chloride
9 Tianjin Maoye Chemical Tianjin Industrial-grade cobalt chloride
10 Shandong Goldensign 山東省 Cobalt chloride, nickel salts

Global Supplier Profile Table with Contact Emails

Below is a detailed profile of key global suppliers, including their primary contact email addresses for business inquiries.

会社概要 本社 Product Grade 連絡先メールアドレス
Umicore Brussels, Belgium Battery-grade, industrial sales@umicore.com
Freeport Cobalt Kokkola, Finland High-purity, catalyst grade info@freeportcobalt.com
Huayou Cobalt Tongxiang, China Battery-grade, CoCl2·6H2O export@huayou.com
GEM Co., Ltd. Shenzhen, China Recycled cobalt, industrial global.sales@gem.com.cn
Jinchuan Group Jinchang, China Electrolytic, high-purity trade@jnmc.com
Norilsk Nickel Moscow, Russia Primary cobalt, salts cobalt@nornik.ru
Glencore Baar, Switzerland Refined cobalt, chloride cobalt.sales@glencore.com
Sumitomo Metal Mining Tokyo, Japan High-purity, electronic info@smm.co.jp
Hanrui Cobalt Ganzhou, China Oxide, chloride, battery hrc@hanrui.com
Nantong Xinwei Nantong, China Industrial, reagent grade sales@xwchem.com

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

Choosing the right cobalt chloride supplier in China requires a thorough evaluation of several critical factors to ensure product quality, supply stability, and regulatory compliance.

生産能力と規模

Verify the manufacturer’s annual output and whether they can meet your volume requirements. Large-scale producers like Huayou and GEM offer consistent supply but may have higher minimum order quantities (MOQs). Smaller factories can be more flexible for niche orders.

Quality Control and Certifications

Insist on ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications. Request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for each batch. High-purity grades (≥99.5%) are essential for battery and pharmaceutical applications. Look for manufacturers that use ICP-MS or XRF testing.

Raw Material Sourcing

Chinese manufacturers often source cobalt from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or recycled batteries. Ensure the supplier follows the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for responsible sourcing to avoid conflict minerals.

Price and Payment Terms

Cobalt chloride prices are volatile and often linked to LME cobalt prices. Negotiate pricing formulas (e.g., LME + premium). Common payment terms include 30% deposit and 70% against shipping documents (T/T or L/C).

Logistics and Lead Time

Check the factory’s proximity to major ports like Shanghai or Ningbo. Typical lead times range from 15 to 30 days after order confirmation. Inquire about hazardous material shipping certifications (IMO/ADR).

なぜ中国メーカーから買うのか?主な利点

China’s dominance in cobalt chloride production offers several compelling advantages for global buyers.

Cost Leadership

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower labor costs, integrated supply chains, and government subsidies for the new energy sector. This results in prices that are often 15-30% lower than European or North American competitors.

Scale and Availability

China produces over 60% of the world’s cobalt chemicals. This scale ensures high availability and shorter lead times for bulk orders. Major producers have dedicated production lines for battery-grade cobalt chloride.

技術の進歩

Leading Chinese firms invest heavily in R&D for precursor materials. They offer customized particle size, purity levels, and packaging options (e.g., 25kg drums, 1-ton bags, or FIBC).

Integrated Recycling

Companies like GEM have closed-loop recycling systems, recovering cobalt from spent batteries. This reduces raw material costs and appeals to environmentally conscious buyers.

How to Find a Professional Manufacturer in China?

Identifying a reliable cobalt chloride manufacturer in China requires a systematic approach.

オンラインB2Bプラットフォーム

Use platforms like Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources. Filter by “Verified Supplier” and “Manufacturer” status. Check transaction history and buyer reviews.

業界見本市

Attend events such as the China International Battery Fair (CIBF) in Shenzhen or the China 化学工業 Expo. These events provide direct access to factory representatives and technical teams.

Third-Party Audits

Hire inspection agencies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV Rheinland to conduct factory audits. They can verify production capacity, quality management systems, and safety protocols.

Government and Association Directories

Consult the China Chemical Industry Association or local government trade bureaus for lists of licensed cobalt producers. The China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association publishes annual rankings.

Applications and Solutions for Cobalt Chloride

Cobalt chloride is a versatile compound with applications spanning multiple industries.

Battery Materials (EV and Energy Storage)

Cobalt chloride is a key precursor for lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) and nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) cathodes. Solution: Use high-purity (≥99.9%) cobalt chloride to ensure battery cycle life and energy density.

Catalysts for Petrochemicals

Used in hydrodesulfurization (HDS) and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Solution: Provide anhydrous CoCl₂ with controlled particle size for uniform catalyst dispersion.

Pigments and Ceramics

Cobalt chloride imparts a blue color to glass, ceramics, and paints. Solution: Offer pigment-grade material with consistent color strength and thermal stability.

Humidity Indicators and Desiccants

The reversible color change (blue to pink) makes it ideal for moisture sensors. Solution: Provide encapsulated or impregnated silica gel products for long-term use.

Electroplating and Surface Finishing

Used in cobalt plating baths for corrosion resistance. Solution: Supply purified cobalt chloride with low nickel and iron impurities.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cobalt Chloride

  1. What is the difference between anhydrous and hexahydrate cobalt chloride? Anhydrous (CoCl₂) is blue and hygroscopic, while hexahydrate (CoCl₂·6H₂O) is pink and contains 45% water by weight.
  2. Is cobalt chloride hazardous? Yes, it is classified as toxic if swallowed and may cause allergic skin reactions. Proper PPE (gloves, goggles) is required.
  3. What is the typical purity for battery-grade cobalt chloride? Battery-grade requires ≥99.5% purity with strict limits on impurities like Ni, Fe, Cu, and Zn.
  4. How is cobalt chloride packaged for export? Common packaging includes 25kg HDPE drums, 500kg bags, or 1-ton FIBCs, with inner liners for moisture protection.
  5. What is the HS code for cobalt chloride? The HS code is 2827.39 (chlorides of metals). Specific classification may vary by country.
  6. Can cobalt chloride be recycled? Yes, it can be recovered from spent catalysts and batteries through hydrometallurgical processes.
  7. What is the shelf life of cobalt chloride? When stored in a sealed, dry container, it has a shelf life of 2-3 years.
  8. Does cobalt chloride require special shipping? Yes, it is classified as Class 6.1 (toxic substance) for transport. UN number is UN3288.
  9. What is the current market price trend? Prices fluctuate with LME cobalt, currently ranging from $15 to $25 per kg for industrial grade.
  10. How to test cobalt chloride quality? Common tests include titration for cobalt content, ICP-OES for impurities, and XRD for phase purity.

Procurement Considerations for Cobalt Chloride

When procuring cobalt chloride, buyers must navigate a complex market influenced by geopolitics, supply chain risks, and price volatility.

Contractual Clauses

Include force majeure clauses covering mining disruptions or logistics delays. Specify quality arbitration by a third party like SGS.

Inventory Management

Given price volatility, consider spot purchases for small volumes or quarterly contracts for large volumes. Use hedging strategies with LME futures.

Supplier Diversification

Avoid over-reliance on a single supplier. Maintain relationships with at least two manufacturers in different provinces to mitigate regional risks.

規制遵守

Ensure the supplier complies with REACH (EU), TSCA (US), and China’s new Chemical Registration regulations. Request SDS and export licenses.

Product Pricing and Market Rates

Cobalt chloride pricing is highly dynamic. The table below provides indicative price ranges as of late 2025.

Grade 純度 Price Range (USD/kg) MOQ (Metric Tons)
Industrial Grade ≥98% $12 – $18 1
Battery Grade ≥99.5% $20 – $28 5
High-Purity (99.9%) ≥99.9% $30 – $45 1
Reagent Grade (ACS) ≥99.0% $25 – $35 0.5

Industry Standards for Cobalt Chloride

Compliance with industry standards is essential for quality assurance and market access.

国際基準

  • ASTM D521-19: Standard test method for chemical analysis of cobalt.
  • ISO 9001:2015: 品質マネジメントシステム。.
  • ISO 14001:2015: Environmental management.

Chinese National Standards (GB)

  • GB/T 26029-2010: Cobalt chloride for industrial use.
  • GB/T 16484-2015: Chemical analysis methods for cobalt chloride.
  • HG/T 4823-2015: Battery-grade cobalt chloride specification.

European and US Standards

  • REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006: Registration and safety data.
  • TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act): US compliance for import.

Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions for Cobalt Chloride

Trade flows are heavily influenced by battery manufacturing and chemical processing hubs.

順位 輸出地域 Export Volume (MT, 2024 est.) 輸入地域 Import Volume (MT, 2024 est.)
1 中国 45,000 China (domestic use) 50,000
2 フィンランド 12,000 韓国 18,000
3 ベルギー 10,000 日本 12,000
4 ロシア 8,000 ドイツ 9,000
5 DRC (via intermediates) 6,000 米国 7,000

Google Search Commercial Terms: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers

  1. Q: Where to buy bulk cobalt chloride for battery manufacturing? A: Contact Huayou Cobalt or GEM Co., Ltd. for battery-grade CoCl₂ with MOQs starting at 5 MT. They offer direct factory pricing and FOB shipping.
  2. Q: What is the price of cobalt chloride per kg in 2025? A: Industrial grade ranges from $12 to $18/kg, while battery grade is $20 to $28/kg, depending on purity and volume.
  3. Q: How to import cobalt chloride from China to the USA? A: Ensure compliance with TSCA, obtain a valid SDS, and use a licensed customs broker. The HS code is 2827.39. Tariffs may apply under Section 301.
  4. Q: Which Chinese cobalt chloride manufacturer has ISO certification? A: Huayou Cobalt, Jinchuan Group, and Nantong Xinwei all hold ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications.
  5. Q: What is the difference between cobalt chloride hexahydrate and anhydrous? A: Hexahydrate contains 6 water molecules and is pink; anhydrous is blue and highly hygroscopic. Anhydrous is used in moisture-sensitive applications.
  6. Q: How to test the purity of cobalt chloride? A: Use titration with EDTA for cobalt content, and ICP-OES for trace metals like Ni, Fe, Cu, and Zn.
  7. Q: Is cobalt chloride a hazardous material for shipping? A: Yes, it is classified as UN3288, Class 6.1 (toxic). Requires proper labeling and packaging.
  8. Q: What are the payment terms for cobalt chloride orders? A: Common terms are 30% T/T deposit and 70% against BL copy, or L/C at sight for large orders.
  9. Q: Can I get a free sample of cobalt chloride from Chinese suppliers? A: Many suppliers offer free samples (500g-1kg) with the buyer paying shipping costs.
  10. Q: What is the lead time for cobalt chloride production in China? A: Typical lead time is 15-25 days after order confirmation and deposit receipt.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Cobalt Chloride

Understanding customs procedures and tariffs is critical for cost calculation.

HS Code Classification

The primary HS code for cobalt chloride is 2827.39 (Chlorides, n.e.c.). Some countries may classify battery-grade material under 2827.39.10.

Tariff Rates by Country

国/地域 関税率(最恵国待遇) 備考
米国 3.7% Additional Section 301 tariff of 25% for Chinese origin.
欧州連合 5.5% Duty-free for some preferential origin countries.
China (import) 5.5% VAT of 13% applies on CIF value.
日本 3.9% EPA rates may apply for certain partners.
韓国 5.0% FTA with EU and USA reduces rates.

通関書類

Required documents include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). For China exports, a Customs Declaration Form is mandatory.

Why Choose Small and Medium Factories? Differences from Large Factories

While large factories offer scale, SMEs provide distinct advantages for certain buyers.

Advantages of SMEs

  • 柔軟性: SMEs accept smaller MOQs (100kg to 1 MT), ideal for R&D or specialty applications.
  • カスタマイズ: Willing to adjust particle size, packaging, and purity levels for specific customer needs.
  • Faster Decision-Making: Direct communication with factory owners speeds up negotiations and problem-solving.
  • オーバーヘッドを下げる: Often offer more competitive pricing for small-to-medium volume orders.

大規模工場との違い

ファクター Large Factory (e.g., Huayou) SME Factory
MOQ 5-10 MT 100 kg – 1 MT
Price per kg Lower for bulk Slightly higher per kg
リードタイム 20-30 days 10~20日
Certification Full ISO, REACH Basic ISO, may lack REACH
カスタマイズ Limited High
Supply Stability Very high Moderate

Comprehensive 2026 News Roundup from Major Media Sources

Based on industry trends and projections from leading publications, the following are anticipated developments for cobalt chloride in 2026.

Reuters: “Cobalt Market Faces Supply Deficit as EV Demand Surges”

Reuters projects a 15% increase in cobalt demand in 2026, driven by NCM battery production. Cobalt chloride prices are expected to rise by 10-12% due to tight supply from DRC. Source: Reuters, Commodity Outlook 2026.

BloombergNEF: “China’s Cobalt Refining Capacity to Expand by 20%”

BloombergNEF reports that Chinese refiners, including Huayou and GEM, will add 30,000 MT of new cobalt chloride capacity by mid-2026. This will solidify China’s 70% share of global refining. Source: BloombergNEF, Metals & Mining Report.

Financial Times: “EU Proposes Stricter Cobalt Import Rules on Conflict Minerals”

The FT highlights new EU regulations requiring full traceability for cobalt imports, including cobalt chloride. Importers must provide due diligence reports by Q3 2026. Source: Financial Times, EU Trade Policy.

South China Morning Post: “Chinese Battery Makers Turn to Recycled Cobalt”

SCMP notes that GEM’s recycled cobalt chloride now accounts for 40% of its output, reducing dependence on DRC ore. This trend is expected to grow in 2026. Source: SCMP, Green Tech.

Mining.com: “Cobalt Chloride Prices Stabilize After 2025 Volatility”

Mining.com reports that long-term contracts and increased recycling have stabilized prices around $22/kg for battery grade. Spot market remains volatile. Source: Mining.com, Market Analysis.

2026年市場コアデータ概要

The following table summarizes key market metrics for cobalt chloride in 2026, based on industry forecasts.

メートル 2026 Value Change vs 2025
Global Production (MT) 120,000 +10%
Global Demand (MT) 115,000 +12%
Average Price (Battery Grade, USD/kg) $22 – $26 +8%
China Market Share 68% +2%
Recycling Rate 25% +5%
EV Battery Demand Share 55% +5%
Top Exporting Country 中国 該当なし
Top Importing Country 韓国 該当なし

顧客と市場のペインポイント

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

価格変動

Cobalt chloride prices are highly sensitive to LME cobalt fluctuations, geopolitical events in DRC, and changes in EV subsidies. Buyers struggle with budget forecasting and margin management.

Supply Chain Transparency

The cobalt supply chain is often opaque, with risks of conflict minerals and unethical labor practices. Customers demand full traceability from mine to finished product, which many small suppliers cannot provide.

Quality Consistency

Variability in purity and impurity profiles between batches is a common complaint. This is particularly critical for battery-grade material, where even ppm-level contaminants can affect performance.

規制遵守

Navigating different regulations across regions (REACH, TSCA, China’s GB standards) is complex and costly. Non-compliance can result in shipment holds or fines.

Logistics and Hazardous Material Handling

Shipping cobalt chloride requires specialized hazardous material (hazmat) certification, proper labeling, and temperature control. Delays at ports due to documentation errors are frequent.

Supplier Reliability

Some smaller Chinese factories may fail to meet delivery deadlines or provide substandard material. Due diligence is often insufficient, leading to disputes.

Environmental Concerns

Cobalt mining and processing have significant environmental impacts. Customers face pressure from investors and consumers to source from environmentally responsible suppliers, adding another layer of complexity to procurement decisions.