Latest News on Sodium Hydroxide

Sodium Hydroxide, also known as caustic soda or lye, with CAS#1310 - 73 - 2, is a highly significant chemical compound extensively utilized in diverse industries.

Production and Market Trends

Recent data indicates notable production figures for Sodium Hydroxide across different regions. In 2023, China's December output of Sodium Hydroxide (equivalent to 100% purity) reached 3.69 million tons. This represented a month - on - month increase of 5.49% and a year - on - year growth of 7.7%. The annual output for the entire year of 2023 (equivalent to 100% purity) amounted to 41.01 million tons, marking a year - on - year increase of 3.5%.

In India, during the 2023 - 2024 fiscal year, the demand for Sodium Hydroxide witnessed a growth of 5.3%, reaching 4.36 million tons. Concurrently, the production volume increased to 4.613 million tons, registering a year - on - year growth of 3.1%. The capacity utilization rate improved to 82%.

The market for Sodium Hydroxide has been experiencing significant price fluctuations. On December 23rd, the spot price converted to the futures market was 2,772 yuan per ton. On December 24th, the main contract of Sodium Hydroxide futures witnessed an intraday increase of over 1%. Over a four - trading - day period, there was a cumulative increase of nearly 7%, with the price soaring to a high of 2,773 yuan per ton, the highest level in over a month.

The price surge can be attributed to multiple factors. The planned maintenance of Sodium Hydroxide plants in certain areas of Shandong and Jiangsu in China has led to a tightening of supply expectations. Simultaneously, the downstream alumina industry, which is currently enjoying high profit margins, has a robust demand for Sodium Hydroxide. This strong demand, coupled with a reduction in the inventory of liquid caustic soda in Shandong, has further bolstered the price of Sodium Hydroxide. Additionally, with numerous new alumina plants slated to commence production in 2025, the demand for Sodium Hydroxide is projected to rise. When combined with the anticipated reduction in supply during the spring maintenance period, there may be a situation of supply - demand mismatch, potentially driving prices even higher.

Research and Development

As of yet, there have been no revolutionary breakthroughs in the fundamental chemical properties or the expansion of application fields for Sodium Hydroxide. However, the industry is actively evolving towards more sustainable, efficient, and energy - conserving methods of production. This shift is in response to the increasingly stringent environmental regulations imposed globally.

Major Suppliers and Manufacturers

The global market for Sodium Hydroxide is served by a multitude of suppliers and manufacturers. In the United States, Cremer Erzkontor North America Inc., based in Cincinnati, Ohio, functions as a distributor and manufacturer of Sodium Hydroxide for cleaning applications. Their products are suitable for use in surfactants, enzymes, fragrances, and disinfectants. Bulk Apothecary, located in Aurora, Ohio, is a manufacturer and distributor of pure solid - form Sodium Hydroxide. It caters to various industries such as soap making, detergents, paper, textiles, and drinking water treatment. Noah Chemicals, situated in San Antonio, Texas, manufactures hygroscopic Sodium Hydroxide available in beads and pellets with a 99% purity level. Their products are utilized in industries ranging from aerospace, agriculture, and automotive to cosmetics, nuclear, oil, gas, and pharmaceuticals.

According to IndexBox's report, some of the largest players in the global Sodium Hydroxide manufacturing industry include Dow Chemical, Solvay, Shin - Etsu Chemical, Formosa Plastics, and Occidental Petroleum. These companies command a significant market share and are expected to retain their dominant positions in the industry in the foreseeable future.

In summary, Sodium Hydroxide holds a pivotal position in the global chemical market. Its production levels, market trends, and the activities of suppliers and manufacturers are under close scrutiny by industry stakeholders. As various industries continue to develop and evolve, the demand and market dynamics of Sodium Hydroxide are likely to undergo further changes, presenting both challenges and opportunities for enterprises operating in this sector.