Trends, Pricing & Supply of Calcium Carbide in 2025 - CAMAL Group

Introduction

What is calcium carbide, and why is it important?

Calcium carbide (CaC2) is a grayish-black, solid chemical compound used primarily for producing acetylene gas (C2H2) when it reacts with water. The chemical reaction is:

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CaC2 + 2H2O → C2H2 + Ca(OH)2

This gas is widely used in industries such as metal fabrication, steelmaking, and chemical manufacturing. Calcium carbide is also used in the production of calcium cyanamide (a nitrogen fertilizer), and in desulfurization processes in the iron and steel industries.

large-scale storage of calcium carbide in an industrial facility

Use of Calcium Carbide

1. Acetylene Gas Production

• • Applications: Acetylene is used for:
    • Welding and cutting metals (oxy-acetylene torches)
    • As a raw material in chemical synthesis (e.g., plastics, solvents)

2. Carbide Lamps

• • Used in mining and caving as portable light sources. The reaction of calcium carbide with water produces acetylene, which burns with a bright flame.

3. Desulfurization in Steel Manufacturing

• • Calcium carbide is used to remove sulfur impurities from iron and steel during the smelting process.

4. Fruit Ripening

• • In some regions, calcium carbide is (controversially) used to artificially ripen fruits, especially mangoes and bananas. However, this practice is banned or restricted in many countries due to health concerns—acetylene can contain toxic impurities like arsenic and phosphorus.

5. Making Cyanamide Fertilizers

• • When reacted with nitrogen, calcium carbide produces calcium cyanamide, which is used as a fertilizer and also in weed control.

6. Signal Flares and Fireworks

• • Acetylene gas produced from calcium carbide can be used in flares and fireworks for creating bright, intense light.

calcium carbide

How China leads in producing calcium carbide

China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of calcium carbide. It accounts for more than 80% of global production, thanks to its large reserves of coal and limestone—the two primary raw materials. The country’s low-cost electricity and established chemical industry infrastructure further contribute to its leadership.

China’s Role in the Global Calcium Carbide Market

What countries produce calcium carbide?

According to Antaike and SMM, calcium carbide is mainly produced in China, India, Russia, Kazakhstan, and the United States. However, China far outpaces others in terms of output and market influence.

Calcium Carbide for Miners’ Lamps

Where is calcium carbide made in China?

Provincial Analysis

Inner Mongolia is the largest producer due to its abundant coal reserves and low electricity costs. The region benefits from access to cheap thermal power, making it ideal for energy-intensive carbide production.

Shaanxi Province is another major hub, leveraging its strategic location near coal mines and chemical industrial zones.

Regional Insights

The Ordos Economic Zone in Inner Mongolia is a top calcium carbide production cluster. It hosts integrated chemical plants that reduce logistics costs and enhance production efficiency.

In western China, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region also stands out. It has strong government support, proximity to coal resources, and a rapidly growing chemical sector.

Who are the top Chinese calcium carbide producers?

1. 1. China National Chemical Corporation (ChemChina) — One of the largest SOEs with diversified chemical manufacturing operations.
   2. Shaanxi Yulin Energy Group — A key player in the northwest, with large-scale calcium carbide and PVC production.
   3. Inner Mongolia Berun Group — Specializes in integrated carbide-acetylene-PVC value chains.

Inside the Chemical Processing Plant

How much calcium carbide is exported?

China exported over 60,000 metric tons of calcium carbide in , according to customs data. However, most production is used domestically due to strong internal demand from chemical and steel industries.

What are the main countries that China exports calcium carbide to?

Key destinations include:

• • India
  • South Korea
  • Vietnam
  • Countries in Africa and Southeast Asia

These markets value Chinese calcium carbide for its competitive pricing and consistent quality.

Calcium Carbide Price Trends & Cost Drivers in China

How big is the calcium carbide market?

The global market was valued at USD 11.2 billion in and is projected to reach USD 14.5 billion by (Source: Global Market Insights). China contributes to over 80% of this output.

Pricing trends over the last year

Prices have fluctuated between $500 to $750 per metric ton in . According to Shanghai Metals Market (SMM), the second half of saw a rise due to tightening environmental regulations and supply constraints.

What affects the price of calcium carbide?

Raw material and energy costs

Calcium carbide is energy-intensive. Costs of coal, electricity, and lime significantly impact final prices.

Environmental rules and policies

China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment has imposed stricter emissions targets, causing temporary shutdowns in non-compliant plants.

“Environmental regulations in western provinces have tightened sharply, reducing operational rates by 15-20%,” said Li Zhang, analyst at SMM.

Shipping delays and global demand

Maritime disruptions and container shortages affected export supply chains, especially during peak industrial seasons.

Currency changes and trade policies

The RMB/USD exchange rate affects the competitiveness of Chinese exports. In , currency fluctuations contributed to 3-5% price variability.

Why is calcium carbide so expensive?

High energy usage, increasing environmental compliance costs, and fluctuating raw material prices are key drivers. Additionally, “China’s dual-control energy policy adds structural pressure to high-emission industries like carbide production,” said a Bloomberg Energy Outlook report.

Pure White Calcium Carbide Powder on Display

How much does calcium carbide cost?

As of Q1 , the average FOB China price is approximately $680/MT, while domestic spot prices vary by province. The price per kg ranges from $0.60 to $0.80, depending on grade and purity.

How much is a pound of carbide worth?

Approximately $0.30 to $0.36/lb, based on current conversion rates.

What is the price of calcium carbide in China?

Latest data from Antaike reports Inner Mongolia prices at 4,900 RMB/ton, and Shaanxi prices slightly higher due to regional energy costs.

What’s the price forecast for ?

SMM forecasts a 3-7% increase in prices by year-end , driven by:

• • Continued enforcement of green policies
  • High industrial demand (especially for acetylene production)
  • Supply rationalization

Supply Chain & Logistics: What Buyers Need to Know

Challenges when shipping calcium carbide from China

• • Long lead times during peak seasons
  • Special handling due to flammability risks
  • Inland transportation bottlenecks in landlocked provinces

Costs and shipping times

FOB port costs range from $50 to $150/MT. Sea transit to Southeast Asia takes about 7–10 days; to Europe, around 30–45 days.

For more information on shipping guide, refer to our blog post on Top 10 Shipping Companies in China

Global Trade in Motion: Shipping Containers at Sea

How calcium carbide is packaged and what’s needed for exports

Calcium carbide is packed in airtight, sealed drums or containers to prevent moisture exposure. Export documentation must comply with China’s hazardous material regulations.

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Here are some of the options to consider:

1. Sealed Metal Drums (Barrels)

• • Material: Steel, sometimes galvanized
  • Size: 25 kg, 50 kg, 100 kg, or even 200–250 kg
  • Features:
    • Airtight seals with screw tops or clamped lids
    • Often lined with plastic or painted inside to reduce corrosion
  • Use Case: Industrial applications and bulk storage

2. Tin Cans / Small Sealed Containers

• • Material: Tin or thick plastic with airtight lids
  • Size: 1 kg to 5 kg
  • Features:
    • Often used for mining lamps or lab use
    • Easier to handle in small quantities
  • Use Case: Retail or fieldwork (e.g. carbide lamps)

3. Polyethylene-Lined Bags Inside Steel Drums

• • Material: Inner polyethylene bag + outer steel drum
  • Size: Typically 50 kg
  • Features:
    • Double-layer protection from moisture
    • The bag provides chemical resistance; drum offers physical durability
  • Use Case: Long-distance or export shipping

How do you dispose of calcium carbide?

Unused calcium carbide must be treated as hazardous waste. Disposal requires neutralization and must follow local and international guidelines. Most companies work with licensed waste management firms.

Ensuring the products meet quality standards

Reputable suppliers provide SGS or BV certifications, and often include third-party lab results verifying purity (typically 80-90%).

Risks & Opportunities in China’s Calcium Carbide Market

What risks could affect the supply of calcium carbide in ?

• • Environmental crackdowns
  • Regional power shortages
  • Changes in export tariffs or bans
  • Logistics interruptions from geopolitical issues

Industries that are growing and need more calcium carbide

• • PVC production in Southeast Asia
  • Acetylene-based chemical synthesis
  • Metal fabrication and cutting industries

What are the rules for calcium carbide?

The State Council classifies it as a hazardous chemical. Plants must comply with China’s “Hazardous Chemicals Safety Management Regulation” (), and export shipments must pass CIQ inspections.

How to Source Calcium Carbide from China Efficiently

How to find reliable suppliers for calcium carbide

Are you looking for global suppliers or focusing specifically on Chinese manufacturers? We’ve compiled resources to help you navigate both scenarios.

1. Use reliable B2B platforms and tools

1. 1. Made-in-China, Alibaba, .com
   2. Industry fairs such as Canton Fair

Tip: Look for suppliers with 5+ years of export history, high transaction volume, and good response rates

If you are unsure of a company, feel free to consult us using the link below

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2. Cross-check business licenses and request key documents

Ask suppliers for:

• • MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
  • TDS (Technical Data Sheet)
  • ISO Certifications (e.g., ISO )
  • REACH or SGS certification
  • Previous Bill of Lading or export documents (proof of shipment history)

3. Attend Trade shows or Expos

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4. Order a sample & Use third party inspection

Always request a sample before a bulk order

Use an inspection service like:

• • SGS
  • Bureau Veritas
  • AsiaInspection (QIMA)
  • TÜV Rheinland

Still unsure? Refer to some of our blog posts that give comprehensive guide on sourcing suppliers from China:

• • A Guide to China’s Top Manufacturers
  • Complete Guide to Sourcing Industrial Materials from China
  • 5 Tips for China Sourcing
  • Top 10 Ways to Avoid Being Scammed While Sourcing From China

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How a sourcing partner can make procurement easier

Working with a local partner like CAMAL helps:

• • Verify suppliers onsite
  • Manage price negotiations
  • Handle QC and logistics
  • Reduce cultural/communication gaps

Conclusion & Next Steps

Key points

• • China dominates the global calcium carbide market due to cost and scale.
  • Prices in are expected to rise moderately.
  • Main supply risks include regulatory changes and energy costs.

How businesses can ensure a smooth sourcing process

To avoid pitfalls, buyers should:

• • Work with verified suppliers
  • Use third-party inspectors
  • Stay updated on policy shifts
  • Consider engaging a trusted sourcing agent

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How can CAMAL help you manage your China Sourcing?

✅ Do you spend too much time finding the right manufacturers in China?

✅Do you face difficulties in communicating your requirements to suppliers in China?

✅ Do your products often need customization just for you?

✅ Do you wish someone could help you with end-to-end procurement, so you can focus on growing your business?

If your answer is YES, Reduce Your China Sourcing Headaches, Us (Faster) or Us Now for a FREE Consultation

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Acetylene is one of the most popular gases used across industries for oxy-acetylene welding and cutting. It is also used as a raw material for the production of various chemicals such as polyester plastics, polyurethane, and more. Acetylene gas is colorless and odorless when pure. Industrial acetylene has a distinctive odor and is combustible in nature. Today, this gas is produced in large volumes using acetylene gas plants. Are you eager to know its production process? This post discusses the process in detail.

Chemical Reaction and Raw Materials

Acetylene is made of two hydrogen and two carbon atoms and is chemically represented as C2H2. This hydrocarbon is produced by one of two processes— chemical reaction or thermal cracking, using different types of raw materials. Calcium carbide is the most popular raw material used for the commercial production of acetylene. It is created by mixing lime and coke in a blast furnace. The product manufactured is calcium carbide. It is reacted with water to create acetylene gas, and this reaction can be easily formulated as CaC2 + 2H2O → C2H2 + Ca (OH)2. Acetylene, calcium hydroxide and heat are the byproducts of this reaction.

The thermal cracking process, on the other hand, makes use of natural gases, including naphtha, crude oil, bunker C, and more. These gases are subjected to a high temperature for producing acetylene, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and more. Acetylene is separated by dissolving the product in solvents such as anhydrous ammonia, water, acetone, or chilled methanol.

This post focuses only on the production of acetylene in plants using the chemical reaction process.

Detailed Information on the Production of Acetylene in Acetylene Gas Plants

Acetylene plants may vary in design; however, in general, they are equipped with the following components and parts, which play a significant role in acetylene production:

1. Hopper Filling Cart
2. Air Operated Hoist
3. Acetylene Generator
4. Cooler Condenser
5. Ammonia Scrubber
6. Medium Pressure Drier
7. Acetylene Purifier
8. Purifier Scrubber
9. Acetylene Compressor
10. High Pressure Driers
11. High-Pressure Filter
12. Back Pressure Relief Valve Air Compressor
13. Flame Arresters
14. Charging Manifolds
15. Air Compressor
16. Pneumatic Acetone Pump
17. Pneumatic Slurry Pump

The process begins with the loading of calcium carbide in a cart. Different sizes of calcium carbide are used in the process. Here is the process described in steps:

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1. After loading the cart, it is loaded to the acetylene generator hopper.
2. In the next step, the calcium carbide is mixed with water and acetylene gas is produced instantly. The calcium carbide is added using a carbide feed mechanism that operates by sensing the pressure inside of the generator body. As the pressure drops after the carbide is added additional carbide is added to sustain the reaction and keep acetylene flowing in the process stream.
3. The gas produced in the process is passed through the cooler condenser, which uses pipes surrounded by water to cool the acetylene stream as it passes through the pipes inside the cooler.
4. The ammonia scrubber uses water to remove ammonia in the acetylene stream. By doing this before the purifier the purification material will last 5 times longer. Because both the cooler and ammonia scrubber lower the temperature of the acetylene stream there is little water left in the stream.
5. The medium pressure drier is then used to extract moisture until the correct amount needed for the purification process is left. Calcium chloride is the medium used to remove the moisture.
6. Later, the dried acetylene is passed through the acetylene purifier, where impurities such as phosphine, arsine, H2S are removed from the gas. If industrial acetylene is needed the purification process can be bypassed.
7. Finally, the purified acetylene goes through the purifier scrubber to remove any purifying material that may have escaped the purifier.
8. The acetylene then enters the compressor and is raised from inlet pressure to desired final cylinder pressure by passing through 3 stages of compression.
9. The acetylene stream passes through a set of high-pressure driers that remove any traces of oil and perform moisture removal. Without this final moisture removal, water would be transferred to the cylinders.
10. As the acetylene travels at high pressure to the manifolds it passes through flame arresters on each side of every shutoff valve. In high pressure, acetylene valves are the cause of most ignitions and the flame arresters are positioned to stop the flame as quick as possible therefore limiting the potential for damage to the system.
11. The acetylene is compressed into a cylinder that has liquid acetone and a porous monolithic mass filler. This acetone in the filler allows there to be 25 times more acetylene in the cylinder than if there was no acetone.
12. The ratio of acetone and acetylene will always be constant, but the total amount of acetone will vary due to cylinder size.
13. The air compressor supplies compressed air to operate the acetone pump, lime slurry pump and the actuated ball valves in the acetylene plant.