Cobalt chloride

Cobalt chloride (CAS 7646-79-9), also sold as cobaltous chloride anhydrous or CoCl2, is an inorganic cobalt salt used across chemical manufacturing, agriculture, and industrial processing. It functions primarily as a catalyst precursor, colorant, and source of bioavailable cobalt in trace mineral applications. In agriculture and animal feed, it corrects cobalt deficiencies in livestock.

The material is frequently incorporated into mineral premixes and fertilizer formulations. Textile and leather processors use it as a mordant to fix dyes and improve color fastness on treated substrates. In catalyst manufacturing, it serves as a precursor for hydrodesulfurization and Fischer-Tropsch catalysts used in refinery and petrochemical operations. This makes it vital for energy sector applications.

The compound also functions as a humidity indicator in desiccant systems and silica gel products. Its color-change behavior drives procurement in packaging and electronics protection industries worldwide. Cobalt chloride is supplied as an anhydrous powder or as the hexahydrate form, with the hexahydrate being the more common commercial grade. It meets high industrial quality standards.

Standard specifications include technical grade and reagent grade, with purity levels typically ranging from 97% to 99%+. Packaging is available in drums and bulk quantities for industrial use.