For pharmaceutical R&D and procurement professionals, understanding the pricing dynamics of key excipients is crucial for effective budgeting and supplier selection. Cellulose Acetate Phthalate (CAP), identified by CAS 9004-38-0, is a widely used polymer in pharmaceutical formulations, primarily for enteric coatings. The price of CAP can vary based on several factors, and knowing what influences these costs is essential when you wish to buy this material.

The primary drivers for the price of Cellulose Acetate Phthalate include raw material costs, manufacturing complexity, purity grades, production volume, and supplier location. As a derivative of cellulose, the availability and cost of cellulose acetate and phthalic anhydride directly impact CAP's price. Manufacturers in China, often benefiting from integrated supply chains and economies of scale, can typically offer competitive pricing for CAP.

When you are looking to purchase Cellulose Acetate Phthalate, it's important to consider the specific grade required for your application. Pharmaceutical-grade CAP, meeting stringent pharmacopoeial standards (e.g., USP, EP), generally commands a higher price due to the extensive quality control, testing, and regulatory compliance involved. Technical grades, while suitable for some industrial applications, may be priced lower but are not appropriate for pharmaceutical use.

The quantity ordered also plays a significant role in determining the per-unit price. Bulk purchases from a manufacturer typically result in lower per-kilogram costs than smaller R&D quantities. Therefore, when requesting a quote, clearly stating your expected annual volume can help suppliers provide more accurate and competitive pricing. It is advisable to obtain quotes from multiple reputable Chinese manufacturers to compare pricing and service offerings.

Furthermore, the market demand for CAP, global economic conditions, and shipping costs can also influence its price. Suppliers may also offer different pricing structures based on payment terms and delivery Incoterms (e.g., FOB, CFR, CIF). Understanding these terms is crucial for a comprehensive cost evaluation.

In summary, while the price of Cellulose Acetate Phthalate (CAS 9004-38-0) is influenced by numerous factors, strategic sourcing from reliable Chinese manufacturers can lead to significant cost efficiencies for pharmaceutical applications. By carefully evaluating purity requirements, order volumes, and supplier capabilities, you can secure high-quality CAP at a competitive price, ensuring the economic viability of your drug development projects.