Ammonium sulphate is a versatile chemical compound with a wide range of applications across various industries. Its ability to serve as a fertilizer, flame retardant, and in water treatment makes it a valuable resource in agricultural, textile, and industrial sectors.
In the agricultural sector, ammonium sulphate is primarily used as a nitrogen fertilizer. This compound provides an essential nutrient, nitrogen, which is crucial for plant growth. The sulphate content also helps decrease the pH levels of alkaline soils, thereby improving soil quality and plant absorption of nutrients.
Ammonium sulphate serves as a flame retardant in the textile and plastic industries by lowering the combustion temperature and reducing the flame spread. Additionally, it's used in the chemical industry as a raw material in the production of ammonia and other chemical compounds.
In water treatment processes, ammonium sulphate is employed as a coagulant to purify drinking water. It helps in the removal of impurities and clears turbid water, ensuring the provision of clean and safe drinking water.
The global market for Ammonium Sulphate (also known as ammonium sulfate) has displayed a diverse landscape of valuation reports, making it a consistently important chemical commodity. In 2023, estimates ranged from as low as USD 1.15 billion to as high as USD 8.20 billion, reflecting varied assessments and market dynamics. These disparities point to significant fluctuations and different analytical perspectives considering production capacity, regional market absorptions, and application diversities.
Global annual production and demand for Ammonium Sulphate were robust in recent years. According to industry sources, production figures stood at approximately 21.5 million tonnes by 2022, with forecasts suggesting steady growth rates, primarily driven by the agriculture sector for its use as a nitrogen fertilizer.
The market has been influenced markedly by major exporting and importing countries. China stands out as a leading exporter thanks to its substantial manufacturing base, while significant import activities are seen in the United States and Brazil. Pertinent to market economics, the average price per metric ton for Ammonium Sulphate has been subject to variability but typically ranges around USD 130-150, with a trend that has seen moderate fluctuations over the past years.
Verticals such as agriculture continue to drive demand globally, reflecting the critical role of Ammonium Sulphate as a soil nutrient. Economies such as those in Asia-Pacific regions, notably India and Southeast Asian countries, are rapidly emerging as significant consumers due to intensified agricultural practices and the need for high-yield crops, thus pacing the demand for fertilizers like Ammonium Sulphate.
When sourcing Ammonium Sulphate, a commonly utilized fertilizer and industrial compound, it is critical to consider both the scale of suppliers and the strategic significance of their geographic locations. Key players in the production of Ammonium Sulphate include Royal DSM, AdvanSIx, OCI Fertilizer Group, and Nutrien, with Royal DSM recognized as a market leader in terms of production volumes.
The largest producers of Ammonium Sulphate are well-distributed globally but significant production capacity can be found in the Netherlands (Royal DSM), the United States (AdvanSIx), Egypt (OCI Fertilizer Group), and Canada (Nutrien). These companies not only lead in production but also in technological advancements in the synthesis and application of Ammonium Sulphate.
China, Belgium, the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands are notable for being the top exporters of Ammonium Sulphate, supplying substantial quantities to international markets. This diverse geographic distribution facilitates robust global trade routes, ensuring the availability of Ammonium Sulphate in various markets and supporting global agricultural practices on a large scale.
Ammonium sulphate, a widely used fertilizer, is subject to various regulations depending on geographical and application contexts. In the European Union, the regulation of chemicals including ammonium sulphate, is primarily governed by the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation, which aims to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals.
In the EU, ammonium sulphate is classified under the EC no. 231-984-1. Companies that manufacture or import this chemical into the EU need to register it with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Registration involves providing detailed information on the substance's properties, environmental data, and risk management measures. Additionally, classification and labeling in accordance with the CLP (Classification, Labeling, and Packaging) regulation is mandatory.
When dealing with the import and export of ammonium sulphate, tariffs and taxes may be applied. For external trade, the EU uses the TARIC (Tariff Integrated into the Community), which provides current tariff data. Importers and exporters can refer to the TARIC system to identify any applicable duties or measures affecting trade in ammonium sulphate. These tariffs can fluctuate based on international agreements and changes in EU trade policy.
To stay updated on the regulations pertaining to ammonium sulphate, stakeholders should regularly consult the ECHA website which provides comprehensive and up-to-date regulatory information, including details about REACH and CLP obligations. Moreover, the TARIC database is a critical resource for understanding current tariff measures on ammonium sulphate for those involved in its import and export.
Ammonium sulphate is a widely used chemical in agriculture and various industrial applications. Handling this compound safely requires understanding its properties and potential hazards. It is primarily a skin and respiratory irritant, and care should be taken to avoid exposure.
When handling ammonium sulphate, it is crucial to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes gloves, goggles, and a face mask or respirator to prevent inhalation of dust and contact with eyes and skin. Always ensure good ventilation in the area where the chemical is used.
In case of contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of water. If ammonium sulphate has been inhaled, move the person to an area with fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Eye exposure should be treated by rinsing cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove any contact lenses if present and easy to do so, and continue rinsing.
Ammonium sulphate should be stored in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances such as strong acids and bases. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use. For disposal, follow local regulations and environmental laws. Avoid releasing the chemical into the environment.
Ammonium sulphate is a chemical compound that must be handled with care, both in terms of packaging and storage. Its stability and efficacy depend greatly on the conditions under which it is kept. Proper packaging and storage guidelines ensure the safety of the product and minimize the risk of contamination and decomposition.
Ammonium sulphate is typically packaged in materials that resist moisture and chemical interaction. Common packaging options include polyethylene bags and drums. For commercial and industrial uses, it is often available in bulk bags ranging from 25 kg to 1 tonne, or it can be delivered in bulk tankers. These containers are designed to protect the chemical from moisture, which is imperative to preserve its chemical integrity and ensure its effective performance in various applications.
For optimal preservation, ammonium sulphate should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sources of moisture and heat. It is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air, which can lead to clumping and degradation of the product. The storage area should also be well-ventilated to prevent the accumulation of any dust or vapours. Additionally, it should be kept away from incompatible substances like strong acids and bases, as well as oxidizing agents, to prevent any hazardous chemical reactions.
Handling ammonium sulphate requires precautions to ensure safety. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, protective eyewear, and face masks should be worn to prevent direct contact with the substance. Additionally, facilities storing ammonium sulphate should have appropriate spill control and fire-fighting equipment readily available as part of their safety protocols. Regular training for staff on handling procedures and emergency responses is also crucial to maintain a safe working environment.
