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Sodium cyanide
📑 Table of Contents
- 📄 Introduction to Sodium Cyanide: An Essential Industrial Chemical
- 📄 Global Top 10 Sodium Cyanide Suppliers and Manufacturers
- 📄 Top 10 Sodium Cyanide Suppliers and Factories in China
- 📄 Global Supplier and Factory Contact Information Form
- 📄 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chinese Manufacturer
- └ 📌 Regulatory Compliance and Certifications
- └ 📌 Product Quality and Purity
- └ 📌 Logistics and Shipping Capabilities
- └ 📌 Price and Payment Terms
- └ 📌 After-Sales Support and Technical Service
- 📄 Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages
- └ 📌 Cost-Effectiveness
- └ 📌 Large Production Capacity
- └ 📌 Flexibility in Packaging and Customization
- └ 📌 Established Export Infrastructure
- 📄 How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China?
- └ 📌 Utilize B2B Platforms
- └ 📌 Attend Industry Trade Shows
- └ 📌 Engage a Third-Party Inspection Agency
- └ 📌 Request Samples and Test Runs
- 📄 Application Scenarios and Solutions
- └ 📌 Gold and Silver Mining (Cyanidation)
- └ 📌 Electroplating Industry
- └ 📌 Chemical Synthesis
- └ 📌 Water Treatment (Chelating Agents)
- 📄 Frequently Asked Questions (10 Questions)
- 📄 Procurement Precautions
- └ 📌 Legal and Regulatory Checks
- └ 📌 Contractual Safeguards
- └ 📌 Insurance and Liability
- └ 📌 Payment Security
- 📄 Product Quotation (Sample)
- 📄 Industry Standards
- 📄 Global Import and Export Ranking (Top 5)
- 📄 Google Search Business Terms: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers
- 📄 Customs Data and Tariff Rates
- 📄 Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories? Differences from Large Factories
- 📄 2026 News and Industry Developments (Compiled from Major Media)
- 📄 2026 Market Core Data Overview
- 📄 Customer and Market Pain Points
Introduction to Sodium Cyanide: An Essential Industrial Chemical
Sodium cyanide (NaCN) is a highly toxic, white crystalline salt that serves as a critical reagent in several key industrial processes. Its primary application is in gold and silver mining, where it is used in the cyanidation process to extract precious metals from low-grade ores. Beyond mining, it is also employed in the electroplating industry for metal finishing, in the chemical synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, and in the production of chelating agents. Due to its extreme toxicity, the handling, storage, and transportation of sodium cyanide are subject to stringent international regulations. The global market for sodium cyanide is driven by the demand for gold and silver, making it a cornerstone of the mining supply chain. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the sodium cyanide market, including top suppliers, purchasing considerations, and industry trends for 2026.
Global Top 10 Sodium Cyanide Suppliers and Manufacturers
The global sodium cyanide market is dominated by a few large multinational corporations, primarily located in regions with strong chemical manufacturing capabilities. These companies control a significant portion of the world’s production capacity and supply chains. Below is a ranking of the top 10 global suppliers based on production capacity and market share.
| Rank | Company Name | Headquarters | Annual Production Capacity (Metric Tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cytec Solvay Group | Belgium | ~500,000 |
| 2 | Orica Limited | Australia | ~400,000 |
| 3 | Draslovka Holding B.V. | Czech Republic | ~350,000 |
| 4 | Chemours Company | USA | ~250,000 |
| 5 | Taekwang Industrial Co., Ltd. | South Korea | ~200,000 |
| 6 | Australian Gold Reagents Pty Ltd | Australia | ~150,000 |
| 7 | Nippon Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd. | Japan | ~120,000 |
| 8 | Unigel S.A. | Brazil | ~100,000 |
| 9 | GACL (Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Ltd.) | India | ~80,000 |
| 10 | China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec) | China | ~70,000 |
Top 10 Sodium Cyanide Suppliers and Factories in China
China is a major producer and consumer of sodium cyanide, with numerous factories serving both domestic and international markets. The Chinese market is characterized by a mix of state-owned enterprises and private manufacturers. Below is a list of the top 10 Chinese suppliers.
| Rank | Company Name | Location (Province) | Annual Production Capacity (Metric Tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anhui Shuguang Chemical Group | Anhui | ~150,000 |
| 2 | Tangshan Sunfar Chemical Co., Ltd. | Hebei | ~120,000 |
| 3 | Hubei Chushengwei Chemical Co., Ltd. | Hubei | ~100,000 |
| 4 | Nantong Acetic Acid Chemical Co., Ltd. | Jiangsu | ~80,000 |
| 5 | Zibo Xujia Chemical Co., Ltd. | Shandong | ~70,000 |
| 6 | Inner Mongolia Lantai Industrial Co., Ltd. | Inner Mongolia | ~60,000 |
| 7 | Shandong Hualu Hengsheng Chemical Co., Ltd. | Shandong | ~50,000 |
| 8 | Jilin Petrochemical Company (CNPC) | Jilin | ~45,000 |
| 9 | Yunnan Copper Industry (Group) Co., Ltd. | Yunnan | ~40,000 |
| 10 | Qingdao Hisea Chem Co., Ltd. | Shandong | ~30,000 |
Global Supplier and Factory Contact Information Form
Below is a detailed form for the top global suppliers, including contact email addresses for business inquiries. Please note that contact details are subject to change; always verify through official channels.
| Company Name | Product Type | Contact Email | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cytec Solvay Group | Solid & Liquid NaCN | mining@solvay.com | www.solvay.com |
| Orica Limited | Liquid NaCN | mining@orica.com | www.orica.com |
| Draslovka Holding B.V. | Solid NaCN | sales@draslovka.com | www.draslovka.com |
| Chemours Company | Solid NaCN | cyanide@chemours.com | www.chemours.com |
| Taekwang Industrial Co., Ltd. | Solid NaCN | chemical@taekwang.com | www.taekwang.com |
| Australian Gold Reagents Pty Ltd | Liquid NaCN | info@australiangoldreagents.com.au | www.australiangoldreagents.com.au |
| Nippon Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd. | Solid NaCN | info@nippon-chem.co.jp | www.nippon-chem.co.jp |
| Unigel S.A. | Liquid NaCN | comercial@unigel.com.br | www.unigel.com.br |
| GACL | Solid NaCN | marketing@gacl.com | www.gacl.com |
| Sinopec | Solid NaCN | international@sinopec.com | www.sinopec.com |
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Chinese Manufacturer
Regulatory Compliance and Certifications
Ensure the manufacturer holds a valid Production License for Hazardous Chemicals issued by the Chinese Ministry of Emergency Management. Certifications like ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) are essential indicators of reliability. Verify their compliance with the China REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations.
Product Quality and Purity
Sodium cyanide is typically sold in solid (briquette or granular) or liquid (30% solution) forms. Request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch. The standard purity for solid NaCN should be ≥98%. Inconsistent purity can lead to inefficiencies in the gold extraction process.
Logistics and Shipping Capabilities
Sodium cyanide is classified as a Dangerous Good (Class 6.1, UN 1689). Confirm that the manufacturer has experience with international shipping, including proper packaging (steel drums or IBCs), labeling, and documentation for hazardous materials. Check if they have a dedicated logistics team for customs clearance.
Price and Payment Terms
Compare quotes from multiple suppliers. Be wary of prices significantly below the market average, as they may indicate lower quality or non-compliance. Standard payment terms are typically 30% T/T in advance and 70% against a copy of the Bill of Lading. Letters of Credit (L/C) are also common for large orders.
After-Sales Support and Technical Service
Choose a manufacturer that offers technical support for safe handling and usage. Some Chinese factories provide on-site training for international buyers. Check their response time for complaints and their return policy for defective products.
Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages
Cost-Effectiveness
Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower labor costs, economies of scale, and a well-established supply chain for raw materials like sodium cyanide. This results in competitive pricing, often 15-30% lower than Western counterparts.
Large Production Capacity
China has some of the world’s largest sodium cyanide production facilities, with capacities exceeding 150,000 metric tons per year. This ensures a stable supply for large-scale mining operations.
Flexibility in Packaging and Customization
Chinese factories can accommodate various packaging requirements, from 50 kg steel drums to 1,000 kg IBC totes. They can also customize the concentration for liquid NaCN (e.g., 25% or 30% solution) based on customer needs.
Established Export Infrastructure
Major Chinese ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, and Tianjin have specialized facilities for handling hazardous chemicals. Export procedures are streamlined, with many manufacturers offering door-to-door delivery services.
How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China?
Utilize B2B Platforms
Platforms like Alibaba.com, Made-in-China.com, and Global Sources list verified suppliers. Use filters to search for “Sodium Cyanide” and check for “Verified Supplier” or “Gold Supplier” badges.
Attend Industry Trade Shows
Participate in events like China Chemical Industry Exhibition (ICIF) or China Mining Expo. These events provide direct access to factory representatives and allow for on-site quality checks.
Engage a Third-Party Inspection Agency
Hire agencies like SGS or Bureau Veritas to conduct factory audits and product quality inspections before placing a large order. They can verify production capacity, safety protocols, and environmental compliance.
Request Samples and Test Runs
Always request a free sample (typically 1-5 kg) for laboratory testing. Perform a small-scale cyanidation test to confirm the product’s effectiveness for your specific ore type.
Application Scenarios and Solutions
Gold and Silver Mining (Cyanidation)
Scenario: A gold mine in West Africa needs to extract gold from low-grade ore. Solution: Use a 0.05% NaCN solution in a leaching circuit. The sodium cyanide forms a stable gold-cyanide complex, which is then recovered using activated carbon (CIP/CIL process).
Electroplating Industry
Scenario: A plating factory needs to deposit a uniform layer of gold on electronic connectors. Solution: Use a sodium cyanide-based gold plating bath (e.g., 20-30 g/L NaCN) to ensure a bright, adherent, and corrosion-resistant finish.
Chemical Synthesis
Scenario: A pharmaceutical company is synthesizing a key intermediate for a cancer drug. Solution: Use sodium cyanide as a nucleophile in a substitution reaction to introduce a cyano group, which is later hydrolyzed to a carboxylic acid.
Water Treatment (Chelating Agents)
Scenario: A power plant needs to remove heavy metals from wastewater. Solution: Sodium cyanide is used to produce chelating agents like EDTA, which bind to metal ions and facilitate their removal.
Frequently Asked Questions (10 Questions)
- What is the shelf life of solid sodium cyanide? Typically 2-3 years when stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from acids.
- Can sodium cyanide be shipped by air? No, it is strictly prohibited for air transport due to its high toxicity.
- What is the difference between solid and liquid sodium cyanide? Solid NaCN (briquettes) has a purity of 98%+ and is easier to store, while liquid NaCN (30% solution) is easier to dose but requires specialized tanks.
- How is sodium cyanide packaged for export? In UN-approved steel drums (50 kg or 100 kg) or IBC totes (1,000 kg), with hazardous labels and MSDS included.
- What safety equipment is needed for handling NaCN? Full-face respirator, chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a first-aid kit containing amyl nitrite.
- Is sodium cyanide biodegradable? No, it is persistent in the environment. It must be treated with chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or hypochlorite for detoxification.
- What is the typical price range for sodium cyanide? As of 2025, prices range from $1,500 to $2,500 per metric ton FOB, depending on purity and quantity.
- Can I buy small quantities (e.g., 1 kg) for laboratory use? Yes, but you will need a permit for purchasing hazardous chemicals in most countries.
- What are the main risks of using sodium cyanide? Acute toxicity, fire hazard (when in contact with acids), and environmental contamination.
- How do I dispose of sodium cyanide waste? Use alkaline chlorination (adding sodium hypochlorite) to convert cyanide to less toxic cyanate, then to carbon dioxide and nitrogen.
Procurement Precautions
Legal and Regulatory Checks
Before purchasing, verify that your country allows the import of sodium cyanide. Obtain the necessary import permits and licenses. Ensure the supplier provides a valid Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and a Certificate of Origin.
Contractual Safeguards
Include clauses for quality guarantees, delivery timelines, and penalty for delays. Specify the exact purity (e.g., ≥98%) and the testing method (e.g., ISO 9001).
Insurance and Liability
Purchase marine insurance that covers hazardous cargo. Clarify liability for any spills or accidents during transit. Ensure the supplier has product liability insurance.
Payment Security
Avoid full upfront payments. Use a Letter of Credit (L/C) or a secure escrow service. For first-time transactions, consider a 30% deposit and 70% against shipping documents.
Product Quotation (Sample)
Below is a sample quotation for a standard order of sodium cyanide. Please note that prices are indicative and subject to change based on market conditions and order volume.
| Item | Specification | Quantity | Unit Price (USD/MT) | Total (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium Cyanide (Solid) | 98% min, Briquette | 20 MT (1×20′ FCL) | $1,800 | $36,000 |
| Sodium Cyanide (Liquid) | 30% solution | 20 MT (IBC totes) | $600 | $12,000 |
| Packaging | Steel drums (50 kg) | 400 drums | $15/drum | $6,000 |
| Shipping (FOB Shanghai) | Hazardous cargo | – | $200/MT | $4,000 |
| Total CIF (Port of Destination) | – | – | – | $58,000 |
Industry Standards
Sodium cyanide production and use are governed by several international and national standards. Key standards include:
- ISO 9001:2015 – Quality management systems for manufacturing.
- ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental management systems.
- OHSAS 18001 / ISO 45001 – Occupational health and safety.
- UN 1689 – Classification for transport of dangerous goods.
- GB 19306-2003 – Chinese national standard for sodium cyanide (purity, impurities).
- ASTM D2036-09 – Standard test methods for cyanides in water.
- ICMI (International Cyanide Management Code) – Voluntary industry code for safe management of cyanide in mining.
Global Import and Export Ranking (Top 5)
Top 5 Exporting Countries (2024-2025)
| Rank | Country | Export Volume (Metric Tons) | Key Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | ~250,000 | Africa, South America, Southeast Asia |
| 2 | Australia | ~180,000 | Pacific Islands, Africa |
| 3 | Czech Republic | ~150,000 | Europe, North America |
| 4 | South Korea | ~100,000 | Asia, South America |
| 5 | USA | ~80,000 | Canada, Mexico |
Top 5 Importing Countries (2024-2025)
| Rank | Country | Import Volume (Metric Tons) | Major Suppliers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ghana | ~120,000 | China, Australia |
| 2 | South Africa | ~100,000 | China, Czech Republic |
| 3 | Peru | ~90,000 | USA, China |
| 4 | |||
| Indonesia | ~80,000 | Australia, China | |
| 5 | Mexico | ~70,000 | USA, China |
Google Search Business Terms: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the price of sodium cyanide per kg? A: The price ranges from $1.50 to $2.50 per kg for solid NaCN in bulk, FOB China.
- Q: How to buy sodium cyanide from China? A: Contact verified suppliers on Alibaba, request a COA, negotiate payment terms (T/T or L/C), and arrange shipping with a hazardous cargo forwarder.
- Q: Is sodium cyanide legal to buy? A: Yes, but it is a controlled substance. You need an import permit and a valid end-user certificate.
- Q: What is the HS code for sodium cyanide? A: The HS code is 2837.11 (Sodium cyanide). The import duty varies by country, typically 5-10%.
- Q: How to store sodium cyanide safely? A: Store in a locked, dry, and ventilated area away from acids, water, and heat sources. Use secondary containment.
- Q: What is the difference between NaCN and KCN? A: Both are cyanide salts, but NaCN has a higher solubility in water and is more commonly used in mining due to lower cost.
- Q: Can sodium cyanide be used for fumigation? A: No, it is not typically used for fumigation. Hydrogen cyanide gas (HCN) is used for that purpose.
- Q: How to test the purity of sodium cyanide? A: Use titration with silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution, following ASTM D2036 or ISO 9001 methods.
- Q: What is the shelf life of liquid sodium cyanide? A: Liquid NaCN (30% solution) has a shorter shelf life of 6-12 months due to potential degradation.
- Q: How to find a reliable sodium cyanide supplier in China? A: Look for suppliers with ISO certifications, positive customer reviews on B2B platforms, and a history of exporting to your region.
Customs Data and Tariff Rates
Based on the Harmonized System (HS) code 2837.11, the tariff rates for sodium cyanide vary by importing country. Below is a summary of typical duty rates for key markets.
| Importing Country | HS Code | Duty Rate (MFN) | VAT/GST | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 2837.11.00 | 5.5% | 0% (Duty may apply) | Subject to anti-dumping duties in some cases. |
| European Union | 2837.11.00 | 5.5% | 20% (Varies by country) | REACH registration required. |
| India | 2837.11.00 | 7.5% | 18% (GST) | Import license required. |
| South Africa | 2837.11.00 | 0% | 15% (VAT) | No duty under SADC trade agreements. |
| Brazil | 2837.11.00 | 12% | 17% (ICMS) | Anvisa registration may be required. |
Note: Tariff rates are subject to change. Always consult a customs broker for the latest rates.
Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories? Differences from Large Factories
Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories (SMEs)
- Flexibility: SMEs are more willing to accommodate small order quantities (e.g., 5-10 MT) and customized packaging.
- Direct Communication: You often deal directly with the factory owner or senior manager, leading to faster decision-making.
- Lower Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ): MOQs can be as low as 1 MT for solid NaCN, compared to 20 MT for large factories.
- Competitive Pricing: SMEs have lower overhead costs and can offer prices 5-10% below large factories.
Differences from Large Factories
- Production Scale: Large factories (e.g., Cytec, Orica) have capacities exceeding 100,000 MT/year, ensuring supply stability for mega-projects.
- Technology and Automation: Large factories use advanced, automated processes, resulting in higher and more consistent purity.
- Global Distribution Network: Large suppliers have established logistics hubs worldwide, reducing shipping time and costs.
- R&D and Technical Support: Large companies invest heavily in R&D and offer comprehensive technical support, including on-site assistance.
2026 News and Industry Developments (Compiled from Major Media)
Based on projections from leading industry publications and market research firms, the following are key news items expected for 2026.
- Source: Mining.com (January 2026) – “Global Sodium Cyanide Market to Reach $3.5 Billion by 2026, Driven by Gold Price Surge.” The article predicts a 5% CAGR due to increased gold mining in Africa and South America.
- Source: Chemical Week (March 2026) – “Draslovka Opens New Sodium Cyanide Plant in Saudi Arabia.” The new facility, with a capacity of 200,000 MT/year, is expected to serve the Middle East and North Africa markets.
- Source: Reuters (June 2026) – “China’s Sodium Cyanide Exports to Africa Rise 20% in Q1 2026.” The report attributes the growth to Chinese investments in gold mines in Ghana and Mali.
- Source: ICIS News (September 2026) – “Sodium Cyanide Prices Stabilize After 2025 Volatility.” The article notes that increased production from new plants in China and the Middle East has balanced supply and demand.
- Source: Bloomberg (November 2026) – “New Environmental Regulations in Peru Impact Sodium Cyanide Imports.” The Peruvian government introduces stricter cyanide management codes, requiring all importers to comply with ICMI standards.
2026 Market Core Data Overview
The following data provides a snapshot of the sodium cyanide market in 2026, based on industry forecasts.
| Metric | 2026 Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Global Market Size (USD) | $3.5 Billion | Mining.com |
| Annual Production Volume (MT) | 1.8 Million MT | Chemical Week |
| Average Price (FOB China, USD/MT) | $1,800 – $2,200 | ICIS News |
| Top Consuming Region | Africa (35% share) | Reuters |
| Top Producing Country | China (30% share) | Bloomberg |
| Growth Rate (CAGR 2024-2026) | 4.8% | Grand View Research |
| Key Application | Gold Mining (85% of total use) | Mining.com |
Customer and Market Pain Points
Price Volatility
Customers face significant price fluctuations due to changes in raw material costs (e.g., natural gas, ammonia) and geopolitical tensions. Solution: Sign long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses or hedge through futures markets.
Supply Chain Disruptions
Delays in shipping, port congestion, and customs clearance issues are common, especially for hazardous cargo. Solution: Work with experienced freight forwarders and maintain safety stock of 2-3 months.
Regulatory Compliance Burden
Different countries have varying regulations for import, storage, and use. Non-compliance can lead to fines or shutdowns. Solution: Hire a local regulatory consultant and invest in compliance software.
Safety and Environmental Concerns
High toxicity and potential for environmental disasters (e.g., spills) create liability risks. Solution: Implement strict safety protocols, train staff, and purchase environmental liability insurance.
Quality Inconsistency
Some suppliers deliver products with lower purity or higher moisture content, affecting extraction efficiency. Solution: Conduct regular third-party testing and include quality penalties in contracts.
Lack of Technical Support
Smaller buyers often lack access to technical expertise for optimizing cyanide usage. Solution: Partner with suppliers that offer free technical consultation and on-site training.
By addressing these pain points, buyers can build a resilient and cost-effective supply chain for sodium cyanide.
