Soaring Sulfur Prices Fuel Shift to replacement

Since early 2026, sulfur prices have surged over 110% and remain volatile. Cost pressures are rapidly transmitting through the "sulfur–sulfuric acid–phosphoric acid/titanium dioxide" chain: phosphate fertilizer production costs are up by roughly ¥1,500 per ton, while sulfuric acid-based titanium dioxide faces an added cost of ¥3,000–5,000 per ton, squeezing downstream margins.

To mitigate these pressures, many users are adopting functional phosphates as substitutes: sodium pyrophosphate is being used to replace phosphoric acid for chelation, dispersion, and water softening, while trisodium phosphate takes on roles in pH adjustment, color fixing, and fluxing within titanium dioxide systems—delivering cost efficiency without compromising process compliance.

Tongyi Hisochem supplies high-quality Sodium Pyrophosphate Decahydrate, Trisodium Phosphate Dodecahydrate, TiO2 replacers, ensuring consistent quality and reliable delivery to help clients navigate this high-cost environment. Inquiries and partnerships are welcome.