Jan. 06, 2025
In the final analysis, chemistry is about chemicals. In school, you may carry out a reaction with a few grams of a chemical; in industry, tons of the same chemical may be used in the same reaction. And in industry, a lot of money is made from actually very few chemicals. Maybe you've wondered about industrial chemistry, including what goes on in that field and which chemicals are used on a large scale. Here are the ten most commonly produced chemicals. The amounts change from year to year, but all the chemicals listed are produced in excess of 100 million metric tons. Here you can see how much chemistry impacts your daily life.
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No matter what the year, sulfuric acid heads the list as the number-one produced chemical worldwide. The major use of sulfuric acid is in the production of fertilizers ' ammonium sulfate and superphosphate. However, sulfuric acid is also used in other products, including the following:
Detergents
Lead-acid automobile batteries
Other chemicals such as hydrochloric acid, dye, explosives, pigments, and drugs
Sulfuric acid is also used as a reactant during the manufacture or processing of certain goods. Here are some examples of its function:
To remove impurities during petroleum refining
To remove metallic oxides before electroplating and galvanizing metal
To remove water during certain chemical reactions
To act as a reactant in the manufacture of rayon and nitroglycerine
Nitrogen is largely an inert gas because it's commonly used as a blanketing gas, which means it protects oxygen-sensitive materials from contact with the air. Following are some of the many industrial uses of liquid nitrogen:
To quickly freeze substances for processing; for example, it's commonly used to freeze old tires in order to make them easier to shred for recycling purposes
To manufacture steel and other metals
To cool concrete, improving the properties of the building material
To freeze soggy ground, making construction easier
To cool chemical reactors, allowing chemical engineers to more effectively control side reactions
The following industries also use nitrogen and liquid nitrogen:
Food: The food industry uses the quick-cooling aspect to minimize cell damage from ice crystals that commonly form during the normal freezing process. Another use is in food service: Liquid nitrogen is used in refrigerated trucks to minimize the contact of the food with air.
Healthcare: The healthcare industry uses liquid nitrogen to freeze blood and tissue samples as well as in cryosurgery to destroy tissue, such as warts.
And at least one college chemistry club uses liquid nitrogen to make ice cream. No churning here; it's ready in less than a minute!
Ethylene is one of the major feed stocks for the chemical industry, especially the plastics industry. You may be surprised to see how versatile this chemical is. It's used in these ways:
To produce ethylene glycol (antifreeze), styrene (used to make polystyrene for use as packing and insulation), and polyethylene, one of the most widely used plastics; in fact, about half of the ethylene produced is used to make the various types of polyethylene
To make ethanol for industrial uses; by law, ethanol for human consumption must be produced by fermentation
To produce polyester (like for the polyester leisure suits of the s)
To produce synthetic rubber
Some of oxygen's main roles are in the following combustion processes:
Commercially produced oxygen is used in oxyacetylene and oxyhydrogen welding torches.
Oxygen is used in the steelmaking industry to help burn off impurities in the molten ore. About a ton of oxygen is required per ton of steel produced!
Liquid oxygen (LOX) is used as an oxidizing agent in missiles and rockets. The oxygen tank that is used to launch the space shuttle holds about 550,000 liters of liquid oxygen.
Oxygen is also used in chemical industries to break down hydrocarbons (compounds of just carbon and hydrogen) into smaller hydrocarbon products such as ethylene, propylene, and acetylene, which are in turn used to produce plastics, paints, and other products.
Propylene's major use is as an intermediate in the production of other chemical compounds, like the following:
In the production of polyethylene needed to produce synthetic fibers for indoor/outdoor carpets
In the production of propylene glycols for auto brake fluid, detergents, and paints
In the production of polyurethane for rigid foam insulation
In the production of various types of ABS plastics used in telephones and auto trim parts
Chlorine has many uses, including the following:
To produce consumer and industrial products such as plastics, pharmaceuticals, dyes, household cleaners (including bleach and other disinfecting agents), insecticides, and textiles
To treat water in multiple ways:
To largely eliminate waterborne pathogens during water purification in water treatment plants in the United States
To kill bacteria in swimming pools; sodium hypochlorite produced from chlorine is used
To act as a major reactant in the production of bulletproof vests, computer chips, and auto parts
The major use of ethylene dichloride is in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Those white plastic pipes used to carry water underground and throughout your home are PVC, which is a mainstay of the construction industry.
Ethylene dichloride is also used in the production of polystyrene, another useful synthetic polymer. Ethylene dichloride is used in the production of
Certain dry cleaning fluids
Flooring
Shower curtains
Synthetic rubber
About three-quarters of the phosphoric acid produced worldwide is used in the production of synthetic phosphate fertilizers. Here are some other uses for phosphoric acid:
Food additive: In the food industry, phosphoric acid is added as a food pH adjuster (in colas, for example), as a clarifying agent, and as a preservative.
Rust remover: Phosphoric acid acts as a rust converter, converting the ferric oxide (Fe2O3) to ferric phosphate (FePO4), which can then be easily scrubbed off. Phosphoric acid for this purpose is commonly sold as a gel called naval jelly.
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Well over half of the ammonia produced worldwide is used in agriculture:
It's used to produce liquid fertilizers that contain ammonia, ammonium nitrate, and urea. It's also used in the production of ammonium nitrate fertilizer.
It's used in the production of cotton defoliants, stripping leaves to make the cotton easier to pick.
It's used to make antifungal agents for certain fruits.
Ammonia is also used in the production of other chemicals and products, including
Nitric acid
Certain dyes
Sulfa drugs
Cosmetics
Vitamins
Certain synthetic textiles, such as rayon and nylon
Household cleaners, such as glass cleaners
Additionally, ammonia is used by several industries:
As a complexing agent in the mining and metal manufacturing industries
As a refrigerant in industrial refrigeration
As a curing and protective agent in the leather industry
When a strong base is required in industry, sodium hydroxide is the one. It's put to many uses in a variety of industries. Here are some of its uses:
In the petroleum industry, sodium hydroxide is used to increase the pH of drilling mud, making it more viscous.
Some countries use it to help remove sulfur impurities from low-grade crude oil.
The papermaking industry uses it in the digestion and bleaching of wood fibers.
Sodium hydroxide is used for the decomposition of roadkill and, if you can believe CSI, to get rid of human remains.
It's used in soap making.
It's used in the production of biodiesel.
It's used as an industrial cleaning agent, especially in the degreasing of equipment. In the home, sodium hydroxide is used as an oven and drain cleaner.
The food industry uses it in the making of hominy, Chinese noodles, and German pretzels.
In today's rapidly evolving industrial landscape, reliable and high-quality industrial chemical supply is more critical than ever. From manufacturing to pharmaceuticals, construction to agriculture, chemicals play a crucial role in various industries, driving innovation and improving overall efficiency. As a result, selecting the right industrial chemical supplier can significantly impact your business's success and growth.
This blog post will explore the world of industrial chemical supply and discuss the key factors to consider when choosing a chemical supplier. By understanding the nuances of this industry and making informed decisions, you can ensure that your business has access to the highest quality products, ultimately enabling you to stay competitive in the market.
Industrial chemicals are essential to numerous industries, from manufacturing to pharmaceuticals and everything in between. They play a critical role in producing and developing various products and services. To better understand the world of industrial chemical supply, it is essential first to grasp the different types of industrial chemicals available. Broadly, these chemicals can be categorized into four main types: raw materials, specialty chemicals, commodities, and fine chemicals.
Raw materials are the basic building blocks for many industrial processes. They are unprocessed or minimally processed materials often extracted from natural sources, such as minerals, ores, and crude oil. These materials are used as inputs for producing various goods, including metals, plastics, and chemicals. Some common examples of raw materials in the chemical industry include crude oil, natural gas, and ores.
Specialty chemicals are high-value, low-volume chemicals tailored for specific applications or industries. They often possess unique properties or functions that distinguish them from commodity chemicals. Specialty chemicals can be used for various purposes, such as adhesives, coatings, lubricants, and electronic materials. The production of these chemicals often requires advanced technologies and extensive research and development. Examples of specialty chemicals include pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and cosmetic ingredients.
Commodity chemicals, or basic or bulk chemicals, are high-volume, low-value products that are the foundation for numerous industrial processes. They are often manufactured in large-scale plants using continuous techniques and are typically sold based on price and availability. Examples of commodity chemicals include basic inorganic chemicals, such as chlorine, sulfuric acid, and caustic soda, and organic chemicals, like ethylene, propylene, and methanol.
Fine chemicals are complex, single, and pure chemical substances produced in limited quantities through multi-step processes. They are often used as building blocks or intermediates in making more specialized chemicals, such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and advanced materials. Fine chemicals are characterized by their high purity, intricate molecular structures, and specific applications. Some examples of fine chemicals include amino acids, peptides, and custom organic compounds.
Understanding the various types of industrial chemicals allows businesses to make informed decisions when selecting chemical suppliers.
Selecting the right industrial chemical supplier is crucial for the success and growth of your business. Considering the following factors will help you make an informed decision and forge a strong partnership with a reliable supplier.
The quality of the chemicals you source directly impacts the performance and safety of your products. Ensure your supplier has industry-recognized certifications such as ISO , which guarantees adherence to quality management standards. Additionally, suppliers should have stringent quality control processes to minimize the risk of contamination or defective products.
A supplier with a diverse product portfolio is more likely to meet your business's unique needs. Look for suppliers that offer a wide range of industrial chemicals, including raw materials, specialty chemicals, commodities, and fine chemicals. This capability will enable you to source multiple products from a single supplier, simplifying your supply chain and reducing logistical challenges.
While the quality of chemicals is paramount, cost-effectiveness is also essential. Compare the pricing of different suppliers and ensure that you receive the best value for your investment. Remember that the lowest price doesn't always equate to the best deal; consider the overall package, including quality, reliability, and service.
Consistent and punctual delivery is crucial for maintaining production schedules and avoiding costly delays. Choose a supplier with a track record of on-time deliveries and an efficient logistics system that can handle your specific requirements, such as expedited shipping or just-in-time delivery.
Responsible suppliers prioritize safety and adhere to relevant regulations, such as OSHA guidelines and the REACH regulation in the EU. Ensure your supplier complies with all applicable laws and has systems to reduce their environmental impact, such as waste management and emissions reduction strategies.
Every business has unique needs, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be practical. Find a supplier that offers customization services, such as custom blending, formulation, or packaging, which will enable you to tailor the chemicals you source to your specific requirements, leading to better results and increased efficiency.
A strong partnership with your supplier goes beyond the transactional exchange of goods. Choose a supplier that offers exceptional customer service, including technical support and guidance on the best products for your application, which will ensure that your business benefits from the latest advancements in the industry.
In recent years, sustainability has emerged as a crucial factor in the industrial chemical supply chain. As environmental concerns continue gaining prominence, businesses increasingly seek eco-friendly alternatives and solutions to minimize their ecological footprint. Regulatory requirements, growing consumer awareness, and demand for sustainable products drive this shift. By adopting sustainable practices, companies can reduce waste, conserve resources, and contribute to the global effort to protect the environment.
When choosing an industrial chemical supplier, it is essential to consider their commitment to sustainable practices. Suppliers prioritizing sustainability typically engage in responsible sourcing, ethical production methods, and waste reduction initiatives. Key factors in evaluating when assessing a supplier's sustainability include:
Incorporating sustainable chemicals into your operations can have numerous benefits for your business. These advantages include the following:
Establishing and maintaining long-term relationships with your industrial chemical supplier is crucial for the success of your business. Strong partnerships can improve communication, supply chain efficiency, and innovation access. This section will explore the critical aspects of building long-lasting relationships with your supplier.
Open and honest communication is the backbone of any successful partnership. Establishing clear lines of communication with your supplier from the outset is essential and includes discussing your requirements, expectations, and potential challenges. Transparent communication helps build trust and ensures that both parties work towards common goals.
Working closely with your industrial chemical supplier can lead to developing new products and solutions that benefit your business. You can tap into your supplier's expertise and resources by actively engaging in research and development projects. This collaboration can help you stay ahead of industry trends, optimize processes, and improve the overall quality of your products.
Finding a supplier that aligns with your company's values and vision is essential for building a long-term relationship. Look for a supplier committed to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and social responsibility. This alignment ensures that your partnership is based on shared principles and can contribute to the success and reputation of your business.
It is essential to review the performance of your industrial chemical supplier periodically. Assess their ability to meet your quality, delivery, and service expectations. Provide constructive feedback and discuss areas where improvements can be made. This ongoing evaluation process promotes continuous improvement, ensuring that your business receives the best possible service from your supplier.
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