- In January 2025, Jones-Hamilton Co., a leading U.S.-based chemical manufacturer, acquired Nexchlor LLC, a Dallas-based subsidiary of Copperbeck Energy Partners. This strategic acquisition significantly expanded Jones-Hamilton’s hydrochloric acid (HCl) portfolio, reinforcing its position as a premier supplier across North America. With the addition of Nexchlor’s assets and expertise, Jones-Hamilton aims to deliver greater value to customers, enhance supply chain capabilities, and strengthen its chlor-alkali business. The move also supports the company’s long-term growth strategy and commitment to safety and sustainability under the Responsible Care initiative
- In May 2024, Wynnchurch Capital, L.P. acquired Reagent Chemical & Research, LLC, the leading specialty distributor of hydrochloric acid (HCl) in North America. Headquartered in Ringoes, New Jersey, Reagent brings a robust infrastructure of terminals, railcars, trailers, and pipelines, enabling reliable service across diverse industrial markets. This strategic acquisition marks Wynnchurch’s entry into the chemical distribution sector, enhancing its market presence, supply chain capabilities, and long-term growth potential. The partnership also reflects Wynnchurch’s focus on investing in companies with strong operational excellence and customer-centric service models
- In August 2023, Wacker Chemie AG completed the expansion of its hyperpure hydrogen chloride (HCl) production facility at its Burghausen site in Germany. Commissioned in mid-July, the new production line significantly boosts Wacker’s capacity to supply ultra-pure HCl—a critical processing aid for the semiconductor industry, used in etching hyperpure silicon wafers and cleaning plant components. The investment, in the low double-digit million euro range, strengthens Wacker’s specialty chemicals portfolio and addresses growing demand amid a tightening global supply. The facility now produces HCl with 99.9995% purity, exceeding industry benchmarks
- In February 2022, Westlake Chemical Corporation completed its $1.2 billion acquisition of Hexion Inc.’s global epoxy business, marking a significant step in expanding its downstream portfolio and integrated operations. While the acquisition primarily focused on epoxy resins, coatings, and composites, it also enhanced Westlake’s capabilities in specialty chemicals, indirectly supporting its hydrochloric acid (HCl) market presence through synergies in chloro-vinyls and coatings applications. The move aligns with Westlake’s strategy to serve high-growth, sustainability-driven sectors such as renewable energy and lightweight automotive components, reinforcing its role as a diversified chemical leader
- In August 2021, Occidental Petroleum Corporation, through its subsidiary OxyChem, announced the closure of its Niagara Falls, New York chemical plant. The facility, which had operated for over a century, produced key chemicals including hydrochloric acid, chlorine, and caustic soda. The decision was driven by unfavorable regional market conditions and escalating rail transportation costs, which rendered the plant economically unsustainable despite years of effort to maintain viability. The closure impacted approximately 150 workers and marked a significant shift in Occidental’s strategic focus within the chemical sector
