Effective September 15, 2024, the Chinese government has opted to restrict exports of a metal, Antimony. Antimony is used in everything from ammunition to batteries, but is also a key component of the widely used flame retardant, Antimony Trioxide (ATO). Prices are expected to rise even higher following this decision.
The trading price of the rare metal is already at an all-time high, having roughly doubled since the start of the year due to a global shortage. China is the world’s largest antimony producer, accounting for 48% of global supplies at 83,000 tons last year, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The critical minerals included in this new restriction, effective from September 15, apply to six kinds of antimony-related products, including antimony ore, antimony metals and antimony oxide.
China’s Commerce Ministry reports the reason for the decision was in the name of national security. In a statement China’s Commerce Ministry says the decision was made, “in order to safeguard national security and interests, and fulfill international obligations such as non-proliferation.” The Ministry also indicated the restrictions were not directed at any specific country or region.
This news has left user of Antimony products scrambling to stockpile and find non-Chinse sources of Antimony. Many European refineries of antimony trioxide have increased supply from Tajikistan, Vietnam and Myanmar. India has also increased antimony ingot supplies to the United States.
Antimony Trioxide Replacement Products
Due to the challenges in the market, many users are opting to replace antimony products all together. ChemCeed is currently offering two options to customers looking for ATO replacements, APP II and V-PLUS III. These products are halogen-free and can achieve the flame retardant standards of UL94 V-0 and VTM-0 in PVC. They are compatible with PVC, ABS, polyolefin, HIPS, Nylon, Polyester, and other engineered plastics.
Talk to you ChemCeed sales representative today for more information, or send us an inquiry online!