Ferric chloride price

Ferric Chloride is primarily used as a coagulant in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment and as an etchant in the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs). In water treatment, it is valued for its ability to remove suspended solids and phosphates. For electronics, high-purity grades are required. Pricing is heavily influenced by the concentration (typically 38-42% for liquid or 98% for anhydrous) and the intended application, as electronic-grade material commands a significant premium over industrial-grade solutions.

Buyers must prioritize the FeCl3 content (purity level), Free Acid content (HCl), and Insoluble Matter percentage. For liquid Ferric Chloride, the specific gravity at 20°C is a critical indicator of concentration. Additionally, check for heavy metal impurities (such as Arsenic, Lead, and Mercury), especially if the product is used for potable water treatment, to ensure it meets international safety standards.

For water treatment applications, ensure the supplier complies with NSF/ANSI Standard 60 or equivalent regional health standards. For general industrial use, ISO 9001:2015 certification is essential for quality consistency. Since Ferric Chloride is a hazardous chemical, suppliers must provide a comprehensive Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS) and comply with REACH regulations for the European market or TSCA for the US market.

Anhydrous Ferric Chloride (98% powder) is more cost-effective for long-distance international shipping because you are not paying to transport water, but it requires specialized moisture-proof packaging (usually vacuum-sealed drums) and careful handling due to its highly exothermic reaction when dissolved. Liquid Ferric Chloride (40% solution) is easier to dose and handle but incurs higher logistics costs and requires acid-resistant storage tanks (FRP or PE).

Ferric Chloride is classified under UN Number 1773 (Anhydrous) or UN 2582 (Solution), belonging to Class 8 Corrosive Substances. It must be shipped in UN-approved packaging (such as IBC tanks or plastic drums). Buyers must ensure the freight forwarder is licensed to handle Dangerous Goods (DG) and that the shipping line accepts corrosive liquids to avoid port rejections or heavy fines.

The price of Ferric Chloride is closely tied to the cost of raw materials like Iron Scrap and Chlorine gas, as well as energy costs. To mitigate risk, consider long-term supply contracts with price adjustment formulas or utilize the extensive supplier network on Made-in-China.com to compare real-time quotes. Purchasing during off-peak seasons for the construction and electronics industries can also yield better pricing.

Always verify the supplier's Hazardous Chemical Production/Trade License. Use secure payment methods and consider third-party pre-shipment inspections (such as SGS or BV) to verify the concentration and purity levels before the balance payment is made. This prevents the common risk of receiving diluted or sub-standard chemical solutions.

Ferric Chloride is highly corrosive to most metals (except titanium and certain stainless steels) and can cause severe skin burns. Ensure your warehouse is equipped with acid-resistant flooring, secondary containment pallets, and proper ventilation. Personnel must use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including acid-resistant gloves and face shields, during unloading and handling.