The global market for sulphuric acid
The sulphuric acid market is seeing a contraction due to lack of sulphur availability, demand destruction in the phosphate sector and restricted Chinese exports.
The sulphuric acid market is seeing a contraction due to lack of sulphur availability, demand destruction in the phosphate sector and restricted Chinese exports.
Sulphur magazine has a new title - Sulphur+Sulphuric Acid - better reflecting the editorial focus and breadth of coverage.
Ambitious expansion plans face exposure to trade route disruption.
• The global sulphur market outlook is flat to soft in the near term: most
Most key sulphur import markets remained stagnant in late August due to weak demand. A premium is being paid for cargoes with guaranteed delivery schedules, driven by ongoing logistical risks in the Middle East. This has firmed prices in North America and Indonesia, but the potential return of supply from Russia and Kazakhstan may add some downward pressure.
Ecovyst Inc, a leading provider of regenerated sulphuric acid, virgin sulphuric acid, and sulphur dioxide and related derivatives, says that it has appointed Laurie Bergman as Chief Financial Officer effective August 24, 2026. Ms. Bergman replaces Michael Feehan, who will be departing the company.
The Phase I development of the Zhugongtang lead-zinc mine in Hezhang County, Guizhou Province, is entering its final construction stretch. Full-line wet commissioning is scheduled to commence on 30 September, marking the official start of the trial production phase. Formal operational acceptance and commercial production are targeted by the end of 2026, following successful completion of performance testing and all necessary rectification work.
South Korean metals producer LS MnM plans to use sulphuric acid recovered from copper-smelting operations to process nickel and cobalt for battery materials, linking its existing metals business with its expansion into the electric-vehicle supply chain. The company captures sulphur dioxide generated at its Onsan Smelter and converts it into sulphuric acid. LS MnM’s sulphuric-acid facilities have annual capacity of 1.925 million t/a, according to the company, providing a potential internal reagent source for hydrometallurgical processing.
Viviana Alavardo, CRU Sulphur and Sulphuric Acid Analyst, examines how China's 2026 sulphuric acid export suspension removed an estimated 2.8 million tonnes from trade, deepening sulphur shortages. Prices have eased since May but remain historically high amid limited replacement supply.
KVT Technology compares its OXYSULF process with a conventional sulphur recovery unit, assessing emissions, energy efficiency and performance for refineries and industrial sites pursuing lower costs and stronger environmental compliance.