Recent developments
Catalysis and curing
Clariant and Vertimass expanded catalysts for bio-based fuels via scaling support for the CADO process. PPG installed a pilot line using IPG’s PhotoniCURE laser curing system to evaluate faster, lower-energy powder finishing with Whirlpool. Both initiatives target lower processing footprints in niche coatings and fuel-catalysis applications.
Nanomaterials and ceramics
Brenntag broadened specialty distribution in Brazil through a distribution agreement with Nanum, adding graphene and metal-oxide nanomaterials for CASE and polymers. UBE invested in CheomdanLab Inc., backing SRBSN technology to upcycle silicon waste into silicon nitride powders and ceramic balls for EV and industrial bearings.
Portfolio realignment
Specialty portfolios shifted. BASF sold its optical brightening agent business to Catexel, while CABB divested Jayhawk Fine Chemicals Corporation to Anupam Rasayan. Covestro added adhesives and isocyanate capacity through Pontacol AG and Vencorex sites, and Technip Energies acquired Advanced Materials & Catalysts.
Financial signals
Results highlighted disciplined cost control amid weak Western demand. Clariant marked a third year of EBITDA margin growth. Croda reported a 6.6% increase in sales and improving margins. Arkema maintained a 13.8% margin with targeted expansions. Covestro met 2025 guidance and expects stable 2026 EBITDA after a capital increase. BASF advanced its Winning Ways program with savings and lower 2026 capex guidance.
Digitalized R&D
Digital R&D accelerated as Mitsui Chemicals developed an AI agent that reads structural images and text, automating compound identification and data extraction, with full-scale operation targeted for fiscal 2026. This could compress discovery cycles in specialty formulations and catalysts.