UNSPSC 41104211: Softeners

UNSPSC 41104211 Softeners is a Commodity code covering water treatment chemicals used in municipal water and wastewater systems. State and local governments buy softening and pH-adjustment chemicals under this code—sodium hydroxide, hydrated lime, soda ash, caustic soda, and sodium bisulfite—alongside complementary treatment compounds like activated carbon, aluminum sulfate, chlorine, sodium chlorite, and ferric chloride. These purchases support drinking-water filtration plants and wastewater treatment facilities that serve city populations. The issuing bodies are primarily municipal water utilities and public works departments in mid-sized cities. The scope includes not only chemical supply but also delivery logistics (typically within 24 to 72 hours of request), NSF 60/61 certification, Safety Data Sheets, and vendor-provided employee safety training. Contracts are typically annual with optional renewal extensions, and pricing is quoted on an F.O.B. delivered basis with firm prices for the initial term.

Recent activity centers in Georgia. The City of LaGrange issued an IFB on May 7, 2026 (due June 8, 2026) for eight water treatment chemicals including powdered activated carbon, liquid aluminum sulfate, sodium chlorite, chlorine, and sodium bisulfite for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026. The City of Griffin issued an IFB on April 29, 2026 (due May 28, 2026) for 16 water treatment chemicals including sodium hydroxide, hydrated lime, potassium permanganate, and polymers, with delivery to six treatment facilities. Both solicitations required NSF standards compliance, rapid delivery windows, and FOB pricing with no fuel adjustment surcharges; both permitted bidders to quote individual line items and reserved the right to split awards among vendors. Neither solicitation identified budget values, minimum purchase guarantees, set-asides, or incumbent vendors in public documentation.