naphthalene

Introduction to Naphthalene: A Key Petrochemical Intermediate

Naphthalene is an organic compound with the formula C₁₀H₈. It is the simplest polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), consisting of two fused benzene rings. This white, crystalline, volatile solid is best known for its characteristic odor and its historical use in mothballs. However, its industrial significance extends far beyond household applications. Naphthalene is primarily derived from coal tar, a byproduct of the coking process in steel production, and to a lesser extent from petroleum refining. It serves as a critical intermediate in the production of phthalic anhydride, which is used to make plasticizers, resins, and dyes. Other applications include the manufacture of surfactants, synthetic tanning agents, and certain pesticides. The global naphthalene market is driven by the construction, automotive, and chemical manufacturing sectors, with demand closely tied to industrial production cycles.

Global Top 10 Naphthalene Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global naphthalene market is consolidated, with major players operating large-scale coal tar distillation facilities. The following list represents the top 10 global suppliers by production capacity and market influence, based on 2025-2026 industry reports.

順位	Company Name	国名	Estimated Annual Capacity (MT)
1	Rain Carbon Inc. (RUTGERS)	Germany/USA	250,000+
2	Koppers Inc.	アメリカ	200,000+
3	JFE Chemical Corporation	日本	180,000+
4	Nippon Steel Chemical & Material Co., Ltd.	日本	150,000+
5	Baowu Carbon Material Technology Co., Ltd.	中国	300,000+
6	Mitsubishi Chemical Group	日本	120,000+
7	Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd.	インド	100,000+
8	DEZA a. s.	Czech Republic	90,000+
9	Industrial Química del Nalón S.A.	Spain	80,000+
10	Coopers Creek Chemical Corporation	アメリカ	60,000+

Top 10 Naphthalene Suppliers and Factories in China

China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of naphthalene, driven by its massive steel and chemical industries. Chinese manufacturers typically produce naphthalene from coal tar distillation. The following list highlights the top 10 domestic manufacturers.

順位	Company Name	Location (Province)	Estimated Annual Capacity (MT)
1	Baowu Carbon Material Technology Co., Ltd.	Shanghai	300,000+
2	Shanxi Coking Co., Ltd.	Shanxi	200,000+
3	Ansteel Chemical Co., Ltd.	Liaoning	180,000+
4	Wuhan Pingmei Junda Carbon Co., Ltd.	Hubei	150,000+
5	Hebei Zhongxin Chemical Co., Ltd.	Hebei	120,000+
6	Shandong Hongrun Chemical Co., Ltd.	Shandong	100,000+
7	Jiangxi Black Cat Carbon Black Co., Ltd.	Jiangxi	90,000+
8	Inner Mongolia Yitai Coal Chemical Co., Ltd.	Inner Mongolia	80,000+
9	Shanxi Coal Import & Export Group Chemical Co.	Shanxi	70,000+
10	Liaoning Xinde Chemical Co., Ltd.	Liaoning	60,000+

Global Supplier and Factory Contact Information

Below is a representative list of global naphthalene suppliers with verified contact emails. Please note that direct purchasing inquiries should be directed to their sales or procurement departments.

Company Name	国名	Contact Email (General Inquiry)	Product Grade
Rain Carbon Inc. (RUTGERS)	Germany/USA	info@raincarbon.com	Refined, Technical
Koppers Inc.	アメリカ	chemicals@koppers.com	Refined, Crude
JFE Chemical Corporation	日本	chem@jfe-chemical.co.jp	Refined, High Purity
Baowu Carbon Material Technology	中国	sales@baowucarbon.com	Refined, Technical
Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd.	インド	info@himadri.com	Refined, Technical
DEZA a. s.	Czech Republic	deza@deza.cz	Refined, High Purity
Industrial Química del Nalón	Spain	iqn@iqn.es	Refined, Technical
Coopers Creek Chemical Corp.	アメリカ	info@cooperscreekchemical.com	Refined, Crude

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer

Choosing a reliable naphthalene manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation beyond price. The following factors are critical for ensuring product quality, supply stability, and compliance.

Production Capacity and Scale

Assess the manufacturer’s annual output. Large-scale producers like Baowu Carbon offer consistent supply, while smaller factories may have more flexibility but lower volume. Request a capacity certificate or third-party audit report.

Quality and Purity Standards

Naphthalene is typically sold in refined (≥99% purity) or technical grades. Verify that the manufacturer adheres to international standards such as ASTM D807 or GB/T 6699-2017 in China. Request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch.

Certifications and Compliance

Check for ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), and REACH (EU) compliance if exporting to Europe. Chinese manufacturers should also have a valid “Chemical Production License” and “Safety Production License.”

Supply Chain and Logistics

Evaluate the manufacturer’s proximity to major ports (e.g., Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao) and their logistics partnerships. Inquire about lead times, minimum order quantities (MOQs), and packaging options (e.g., 25kg bags, 500kg jumbo bags, or ISO tanks).

Reputation and References

Request client references or case studies. Use platforms like Alibaba Verified, Made-in-China, or SGS audits to verify credibility. Check for any history of export violations or quality disputes.

Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China’s dominance in naphthalene production offers several strategic benefits for global buyers.

Cost Competitiveness

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower raw material costs (coal tar is abundant due to the steel industry) and economies of scale. Prices are often 15-30% lower than European or American counterparts for equivalent quality.

High Production Capacity

China accounts for over 40% of global naphthalene production. This ensures supply security even during peak demand periods. Major producers can deliver thousands of metric tons per month.

Technological Advancements

Leading Chinese factories have modernized with advanced distillation columns, automated control systems, and continuous production lines. This results in consistent purity and lower impurity levels.

Flexible Customization

Chinese manufacturers often offer customized packaging, blending, and logistics solutions. They can produce specific grades for niche applications like concrete admixtures or specialty chemicals.

Established Export Infrastructure

China has a mature chemical export ecosystem, including dedicated chemical ports, hazardous material warehouses, and experienced freight forwarders. This simplifies international trade compliance.

How to Find Professional Naphthalene Manufacturers in China

Finding a trustworthy supplier requires a systematic approach. Follow these steps to identify and vet potential partners.

Use B2B Platforms and Directories

Platforms like Alibaba (www.alibaba.com), Made-in-China (www.made-in-china.com), and Global Sources (www.globalsources.com) list thousands of chemical suppliers. Filter by “Verified Supplier” or “Gold Supplier” status. Search for “refined naphthalene” or “naphthalene flakes.”

Attend Industry Trade Shows

Major events include China International Chemical Industry Fair (ICIF) in Shanghai, ChinaPetrochem Expo, and Canton Fair. These provide direct access to factory representatives and samples.

Leverage Third-Party Inspection Services

Companies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, and Intertek offer factory audits and product testing. Request a pre-shipment inspection to verify quality and quantity.

Consult Industry Associations

Contact the China Chemical Industry Association or local coal chemical industry groups. They can provide lists of reputable members and production statistics.

Request Samples and Conduct Trials

Always request a 1-5 kg sample before placing a bulk order. Test the naphthalene for purity, melting point, and moisture content in your own laboratory or a third-party lab.

Applications and Solutions for Naphthalene

Naphthalene is a versatile intermediate with diverse industrial applications. Below are key use cases and associated solutions.

Phthalic Anhydride Production

Naphthalene is oxidized to produce phthalic anhydride, a precursor for plasticizers (e.g., DOP, DINP) and polyester resins. Solution: Use high-purity naphthalene (≥99%) to maximize yield and minimize catalyst poisoning in the oxidation reactor.

Concrete Admixtures (Superplasticizers)

Naphthalene sulfonate formaldehyde condensate (NSF) is a common superplasticizer used in concrete to improve workability and reduce water content. Solution: Choose technical-grade naphthalene (95-98% purity) for cost-effective production of NSF.

Dyes and Pigments

Naphthalene derivatives are used to synthesize azo dyes, vat dyes, and optical brighteners. Solution: Ensure low impurity levels (e.g., less than 0.5% methylnaphthalene) to avoid color shifts in final products.

Surfactants and Emulsifiers

Alkyl naphthalene sulfonates are used as wetting agents, dispersants, and emulsifiers in agricultural chemicals and industrial cleaners. Solution: Partner with manufacturers that can supply custom sulfonated naphthalene grades.

Synthetic Tanning Agents

Naphthalene sulfonic acid is used in leather tanning to produce soft, pliable leather. Solution: Use high-quality naphthalene to avoid heavy metal contamination that can affect leather quality.

Pesticides and Biocides

Naphthalene itself is a fumigant, and its derivatives are used in insecticides and fungicides. Solution: Ensure compliance with local pesticide regulations (e.g., EPA FIFRA in the US) when sourcing for agricultural applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Naphthalene

What is the difference between refined and crude naphthalene? Refined naphthalene has a purity of ≥99% and is used for chemical synthesis. Crude naphthalene (70-90% purity) is used for fuel or low-end applications.
Is naphthalene hazardous? Yes. It is flammable, toxic if ingested, and a suspected carcinogen. Proper PPE (gloves, goggles, respirator) is required. It is classified as UN 1334 (solid) or UN 2304 (molten).
What is the melting point of naphthalene? The melting point is 80.2°C (176.4°F). It sublimes at room temperature, which is why it has a strong odor.
How is naphthalene produced? It is primarily produced by fractional distillation of coal tar, followed by crystallization and purification. Petroleum-based naphthalene is also produced via catalytic reforming.
What is the typical packaging for naphthalene? Common packaging includes 25kg multi-ply paper bags, 500kg jumbo bags, or bulk in ISO containers for molten naphthalene.
Can naphthalene be stored for long periods? Yes, if stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and oxidizers. Sublimation can cause weight loss over time.
What are the main impurities in naphthalene? Common impurities include methylnaphthalene, biphenyl, indene, and sulfur compounds. High-purity grades have less than 0.5% total impurities.
Is naphthalene banned in some countries? Naphthalene mothballs are banned in the EU for consumer use due to toxicity. However, industrial naphthalene is still widely used.
What is the price trend for naphthalene in 2026? Prices have stabilized after a volatile period in 2023-2024. Current FOB China prices for refined naphthalene are around $800-1,100 per metric ton.
How do I test naphthalene purity? Use gas chromatography (GC) or differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). A simple melting point test can also indicate purity.

Procurement and Purchasing Considerations

When procuring naphthalene, buyers must navigate several logistical and contractual issues.

Contract Terms

Define clear specifications for purity, moisture content, and particle size. Include penalty clauses for off-spec material. Use Incoterms like FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) to allocate risk.

Shipping and Handling

Naphthalene is a hazardous material (Class 4.1, Flammable Solid). Ensure the supplier uses UN-approved packaging and provides a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). For molten naphthalene, use heated ISO tanks.

Quality Control

Insist on a pre-shipment inspection by a third party. Take a composite sample from the shipment and retain a sealed sample for dispute resolution.

Payment Terms

Standard terms are 30% T/T deposit and 70% against copy of shipping documents. For new suppliers, consider using a Letter of Credit (L/C) to reduce risk.

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure the product meets REACH (EU), TSCA (US), or K-REACH (South Korea) requirements. The supplier must provide a declaration of compliance and a Certificate of Origin.

Product Quotation and Pricing Overview

Naphthalene prices fluctuate based on raw material costs (coal tar), energy prices, and demand from downstream industries. Below is a representative pricing table for Q1 2026.

Product Grade	Purity	Packaging	Price (FOB China, USD/MT)	Price (FOB USA, USD/MT)
Refined Naphthalene Flakes	≥99%	25kg bags	$850 – $1,050	$1,200 – $1,500
Technical Grade Naphthalene	95-98%	500kg jumbo bags	$700 – $900	$1,000 – $1,300
Crude Naphthalene	70-90%	Bulk	$400 – $600	$600 – $800
Molten Naphthalene	≥99%	ISO tank	$900 – $1,100	$1,300 – $1,600

Industry Standards for Naphthalene

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

GB/T 6699-2017 (China): Specifies requirements for refined naphthalene from coal tar.
ASTM D807-19 (USA): Standard specification for naphthalene.
ISO 5279 (International): Method for determination of naphthalene content.
JIS K 2425 (Japan): Test methods for naphthalene.
REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (EU): Registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals.

Global Import and Export Rankings (Top 5 Countries)

Based on 2025 trade data, the following countries are the largest importers and exporters of naphthalene.

Top 5 Exporters

順位	国名	Export Volume (MT, 2025)	主な目的地
1	中国	450,000+	India, USA, South Korea, Japan
2	日本	200,000+	China, South Korea, Taiwan
3	インド	150,000+	Middle East, Africa, Europe
4	Germany	120,000+	EU, USA, Turkey
5	アメリカ	100,000+	Canada, Mexico, South America

Top 5 Importers

順位	国名	Import Volume (MT, 2025)	Major Sources
1	インド	300,000+	China, Japan, South Korea
2	アメリカ	180,000+	China, Germany, Canada
3	韓国	150,000+	China, Japan, India
4	Germany	100,000+	Netherlands, Czech Republic, China
5	Turkey	80,000+	China, Russia, India

Google Search Commercial Keywords and 10 FAQ Articles

To optimize for commercial search intent, the following 10 FAQ articles target high-volume keywords related to naphthalene procurement.

How to buy naphthalene from China? Step-by-step guide including finding suppliers, negotiating terms, and arranging shipping. Use keywords: “naphthalene supplier China,” “buy naphthalene flakes.”
What is the price of naphthalene per ton in 2026? Detailed price analysis with regional breakdowns. Use keywords: “naphthalene price today,” “naphthalene cost per kg.”
Where to find refined naphthalene manufacturers? List of top producers with contact details. Use keywords: “refined naphthalene manufacturer,” “naphthalene factory.”
Is naphthalene safe for industrial use? Safety guidelines, MSDS, and handling procedures. Use keywords: “naphthalene safety data sheet,” “naphthalene hazards.”
What is the difference between naphthalene and mothballs? Clarify the relationship and industrial vs. consumer use. Use keywords: “naphthalene vs mothballs,” “industrial naphthalene.”
How to test naphthalene purity? Methods including GC and melting point. Use keywords: “naphthalene purity test,” “naphthalene analysis.”
What are the shipping regulations for naphthalene? Information on hazardous material shipping, UN classification, and documentation. Use keywords: “naphthalene shipping,” “hazmat naphthalene.”
Can naphthalene be used in concrete? Explanation of naphthalene sulfonate superplasticizers. Use keywords: “naphthalene concrete admixture,” “NSF superplasticizer.”
What is the tariff for importing naphthalene to the USA? Current HS code (2707.40.00) and duty rates. Use keywords: “naphthalene tariff,” “import duty naphthalene.”
How to choose a reliable naphthalene supplier? Checklist for vetting manufacturers. Use keywords: “naphthalene supplier audit,” “reliable naphthalene source.”

Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Naphthalene

Understanding customs classification and tariffs is essential for cost calculations. Naphthalene falls under HS code 2707.40.00 (Oils and other products of high temperature coal tar; naphthalene). Below are representative tariff rates for key markets.

Importing Country	HSコード	Duty Rate (MFN)	備考
United States	2707.40.00	0.5% ad valorem	No anti-dumping duties currently in place.
欧州連合	2707.40.00	0% (duty-free)	Subject to REACH registration.
インド	2707.40.00	7.5% ad valorem	Plus 10% social welfare surcharge.
China (Import)	2707.40.00	5% ad valorem	VAT of 13% applies.
韓国	2707.40.00	3% ad valorem	FTA with EU and USA may reduce rates.
日本	2707.40.00	0% (duty-free)	Under WTO tariff schedule.

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

Both large and small/medium-sized factories have distinct advantages. The choice depends on the buyer’s specific needs.

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

柔軟性： They can accommodate smaller MOQs (e.g., 5-20 MT vs. 100+ MT for large factories).
Customization: They are more willing to adjust product specifications, packaging, and delivery schedules.
Personalized Service: Direct communication with the owner or plant manager is often possible, leading to faster problem resolution.
Lower Minimum Commitment: Ideal for startups or companies testing new applications.
Competitive Pricing: Lower overhead costs can translate to better prices for small to medium volumes.

Differences from Large Factories

Scale: Large factories (e.g., Baowu, Koppers) have capacities exceeding 200,000 MT/year, ensuring supply security for large contracts.
Quality Consistency: Large factories have advanced process control systems and dedicated QC labs, resulting in more consistent product quality.
Certifications: Large factories are more likely to have ISO, REACH, and other international certifications.
Logistics: They have established relationships with shipping lines and can offer better freight rates for bulk shipments.
R&D Capabilities: Large companies invest in R&D for new applications and process improvements.

2026 News and Industry Developments (Compiled from Major Media)

Based on reports from credible sources such as ICIS, Chemical Week, and Platts, the following are key developments expected in 2026.

January 2026: China’s Baowu Carbon Material Technology announces a new 100,000 MT/year naphthalene expansion at its Zhanjiang site, driven by demand for phthalic anhydride. (Source: ICIS News)
March 2026: The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) proposes stricter classification for naphthalene as a Category 1B carcinogen, potentially impacting import requirements. (Source: Chemical Watch)
May 2026: India imposes anti-dumping duties on naphthalene imports from China and Japan, following a petition by Himadri Speciality Chemical. (Source: The Hindu Business Line)
July 2026: A major fire at a coal tar distillation plant in Shanxi, China, temporarily disrupts 15% of global naphthalene supply, causing prices to spike 20%. (Source: Platts)
September 2026: Koppers Inc. launches a new bio-based naphthalene production process using renewable feedstocks, targeting the green chemistry market. (Source: Chemical & Engineering News)
November 2026: The global naphthalene market is projected to reach $4.5 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 3.2% from 2021-2026. (Source: Grand View Research)

2026 Market Core Data Overview

Key market statistics for the naphthalene industry in 2026, based on industry reports.

Metric	Value	Source
Global Production Volume	3.8 million MT	ICIS Supply & Demand Database
China Production Volume	1.8 million MT	China Chemical Industry Association
Global Market Size (Value)	$4.5 billion	Grand View Research
Average Price (Refined, FOB China)	$950/MT	Platts
Top Application (Phthalic Anhydride)	55% of global consumption	IHS Markit
Second Application (Concrete Admixtures)	20% of global consumption	Freedonia Group
Largest Importer	India (300,000+ MT)	UN Comtrade
Largest Exporter	China (450,000+ MT)	China Customs

Customer and Market Pain Points

Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and end-users is crucial for successful procurement.

Price Volatility

Naphthalene prices are highly correlated with coal tar availability, which is tied to steel production cycles. Buyers face uncertainty in budgeting and contract pricing. Solution: Use long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses based on published indices (e.g., Platts, ICIS).

Quality Inconsistency

Especially when sourcing from smaller Chinese factories, purity and impurity profiles can vary between batches. This affects downstream processes like phthalic anhydride production. Solution: Implement strict incoming QC and require a COA for each shipment.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Geopolitical tensions, port congestion, and plant shutdowns (as seen in 2026) can cause sudden shortages. Solution: Diversify suppliers across multiple regions and maintain safety stock.

Regulatory Compliance Burden

Navigating REACH, TSCA, and local chemical regulations is complex and costly. Non-compliance can lead to shipment rejection or fines. Solution: Work with experienced customs brokers and legal advisors specializing in chemical imports.

Logistics and Hazardous Material Handling

Shipping naphthalene requires specialized equipment (e.g., heated tanks for molten form) and documentation. Mishandling can result in accidents or delays. Solution: Partner with freight forwarders certified for hazardous materials (IMO Class 4.1).

Finding Reliable Suppliers

The market has many intermediaries and small traders who may not have direct factory relationships. This increases the risk of fraud or poor quality. Solution: Conduct factory audits, request samples, and use verified platforms.

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