Specialty chemicals companies in the US produce a variety of unique products designed for multiple industries, including automotive, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. These firms focus on chemical innovations, providing essential materials ranging from coatings to plastics and adhesives. The industry is currently embracing sustainability, with many companies seeking to create environmentally friendly solutions using renewable resources. As technology and consumer demands evolve, the specialty chemicals sector is positioned to adapt, leading to innovative offerings and growing market opportunities. Notably, the global push for more sustainable and efficient products is steering the focus of research and development activities across this sector.

The companies featured in this list include a mix of large and medium-sized firms operating in various specialties such as polymers, silicones, and biobased chemicals. They are headquartered across the United States, from Ohio to Texas and New York to Michigan. Founded between 1903 and 2008, these firms range in employee count from under 200 to over 10,000. Their focus on innovation and commitment to sustainability shapes their product lines, addressing the needs of industries like healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods.

Read on to discover the top specialty chemicals companies in the US.

Top 18 Specialty Chemicals Companies in the US

1. The Lubrizol Corporation

• Website: lubrizol.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Wickliffe, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 49%, India 12%, France 9%, Other 30%
• Latest funding: March 2011
• Founded year: 1928
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: the-lubrizol-corporation

The Lubrizol Corporation, headquartered in Wickliffe, Ohio, is a prominent manufacturer of specialty chemicals and advanced materials. With a workforce of approximately 6,855 employees, the company has been operational since 1928. Lubrizol provides innovative solutions across various sectors, including automotive, healthcare, and beauty. Their product offerings include lubricant additives, engineered materials, and 3D printing solutions, which are designed to enhance product performance and comply with regulatory standards. Lubrizol's commitment to sustainability is evident in their operations, as they strive to deliver solutions that not only meet market needs but also contribute positively to the environment. The company operates globally, with a significant presence in countries like India, France, Brazil, and China, ensuring they meet the demands of a wide array of customers.

2. Kraton Corporation

• Website: kraton.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: The Woodlands, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 61%, Netherlands 17%, Finland 5%, Other 16%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $1.0B, July 2024
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: kraton-polymers

Kraton Corporation, founded in 1995 and based in The Woodlands, Texas, is a manufacturer of specialty polymers and biobased chemicals. The company develops, produces, and markets a wide range of innovative products that serve various industries, including automotive, cosmetics, and medical solutions. Kraton is particularly noted for its commitment to sustainability, as it focuses on creating high-value materials that not only enhance performance but also reduce environmental impact. Their product lines include specialty polymers like the CirKular+ series, which supports plastic recycling efforts, and the Ellamera line for cosmetics, showcasing their versatility in application. With a workforce of approximately 1,387 employees and a significant presence in multiple countries, Kraton is well-positioned in the specialty chemicals market. Recently, the company raised $1 billion in funding, further solidifying its financial stability and capacity for innovation.

3. Momentive

• Website: momentive.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Schenectady, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 33%, India 27%, Germany 9%, Other 31%
• Latest funding: March 2024
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: momentive

Momentive Performance Materials, Inc. is a chemical manufacturer based in Schenectady, New York, specializing in silicones and specialty chemicals. Founded in 2005, the company has established itself as a key player in the specialty chemicals sector, providing innovative solutions that enhance product performance across various industries. Momentive serves sectors including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods, among others. Their extensive product portfolio includes adhesives, sealants, coatings, and elastomers, which are designed to meet the specific needs of their customers. With a workforce of over 4,200 employees and operations spanning multiple countries, Momentive is committed to delivering high-quality products while focusing on sustainability and operational excellence. The company has also been recognized for its efforts in corporate responsibility and sustainability, further demonstrating its relevance in the specialty chemicals industry.

4. Valtris Specialty Chemicals

• Website: valtris.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Independence, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 56%, United Kingdom (UK) 18%, France 12%, Other 14%
• Latest funding: November 2024
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: valtris-specialty-chemicals

Valtris Specialty Chemicals, based in Independence, Ohio, is a manufacturer of specialty chemical additives and precursors. Established in 2014, the company leverages over 75 years of combined experience in the industry. Valtris provides a wide array of products that cater to various sectors, including plastics, coatings, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. Their offerings include plasticizers, heat stabilizers, biocides, lubricants, and functional fluids, all designed to enhance the performance and durability of end products. Valtris is also committed to sustainability, producing bio-based products and focusing on reducing their environmental impact. The company operates globally, with a significant presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, and continues to innovate in response to evolving market demands.

5. Vantage Specialty Chemicals

• Website: vantagegrp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Deerfield, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, Colombia 26%, Spain 7%, Other 17%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: vantage-specialty-chemicals

Vantage Specialty Chemicals, Inc. is a specialty chemicals manufacturer based in Deerfield, Illinois. Established in 2008, the company specializes in producing a wide array of chemical ingredients and formulations tailored for various sectors, including personal care, food production, and industrial applications. Vantage serves a diverse clientele, providing high-quality solutions that enhance product performance and operational efficiency. The company prides itself on its technical expertise and customer-first approach, which allows them to respond effectively to the unique needs of their customers. Vantage's product portfolio includes natural oils, surfactants, and specialty actives, with a strong emphasis on bio-based materials. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their agile supply chain and vertically integrated production processes, which enable them to offer customized solutions. With a workforce of approximately 732 employees and operations in multiple countries, Vantage is well-positioned to meet the demands of the specialty chemicals industry.

6. Porocel International

• Website: porocel.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: The Woodlands, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 72%, Luxembourg 19%, China 9%
• Latest funding: $210.0M, August 2020
• Founded year: 1938
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: porocel-industries

Porocel International, based in The Woodlands, Texas, has been a player in the specialty chemicals sector since its founding in 1938. The company is known for its production of high-performance adsorbents and catalysts, which are crucial in refining and petrochemical processes. Porocel's products are designed to improve efficiency and sustainability in various applications, making them a valuable partner for businesses in these industries. The company has a strong focus on innovation, continuously developing new solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers. With a workforce of around 500 to 1,000 employees, Porocel maintains a significant presence in the market, contributing to advancements in specialty chemicals.

7. Niacet, A Kerry Company

• Website: niacet.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Niagara Falls, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Netherlands 68%, United States (USA) 30%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: $1.0B, June 2021
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: niacet-corporation

Niacet, A Kerry Company, founded in 1978 and based in Niagara Falls, New York, is a manufacturer of specialty chemicals. The company focuses on producing high-purity chemicals that serve critical roles in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and electronics. Their product lineup features essential chemicals such as Anhydrous Hydrogen Chloride, Monochloroacetic Acid, Anionic Surfactants, and Sodium Phenoxy Acetate. These products are integral to numerous industrial processes, ensuring efficiency and compliance with stringent regulations. Niacet operates with a strong emphasis on quality, holding certifications like ISO 9001:2015 and CleanGredients certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The company is part of Kerry Group, which has integrated Niacet’s food protection, preservation, and pharmaceutical products into its broader business framework. This affiliation enhances Niacet's market presence and operational capabilities, allowing it to maintain relevance in the specialty chemicals sector.

8. Sonneborn

• Website: sonneborn.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Amsterdam, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Netherlands 67%, United States (USA) 33%
• Latest funding: $655.0M, November 2018
• Founded year: 1903
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: sonneborn-llc

Sonneborn, founded in 1903, is a chemical manufacturer based in Amsterdam, New York, specializing in high-purity specialty products. With a workforce of around 190 employees, the company has established itself as a key player in the specialty chemicals sector. Sonneborn's product offerings include a wide array of items such as alkanes, waxes, and lubricants, which are essential for various applications in industries like personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food. The company prides itself on its commitment to product innovation and building strong partnerships with its customers. Sonneborn's facilities have achieved certifications like ISO 14001, reflecting their dedication to environmental sustainability. Their recent funding of $655 million in 2018 further supports their ongoing efforts to enhance their product lines and expand their market reach.

9. Gulbrandsen

• Website: gulbrandsen.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Orangeburg, South Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 88%, United States (USA) 10%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: gulbrandsen-chemicals-inc

Gulbrandsen is a chemical manufacturing company based in Orangeburg, South Carolina, specializing in high-quality chemical solutions tailored for various applications. Established in 1984, the company has built a reputation for producing specialty polymers, performance catalysts, organometallics, and tin products. These offerings cater to critical industries, including plastics and pharmaceuticals, where precision and quality are paramount. Gulbrandsen emphasizes operational excellence and integrity, ensuring that their products meet the rigorous demands of their customers. With a global presence, including manufacturing and distribution facilities in India, Belgium, and the USA, Gulbrandsen is well-positioned to serve a worldwide market. Their recent achievements, such as being recognized by Chevron Phillips Chemical Company and receiving an Ecovadis Silver medal for sustainability, highlight their commitment to quality and responsible business practices.

10. Cappelle Pigments, A Ferro Company

• Website: ferro.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Belgium 71%, Italy 14%, France 14%
• Latest funding: $2.1B, May 2021
• Founded year: 1919
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: cappelle-pigments

Cappelle Pigments, a Ferro Company, operates under the brand Vibrantz Technologies and is based in Cleveland, Ohio. Founded in 1919, the company specializes in manufacturing specialty chemicals that cater to a variety of industries, including automotive, electronics, and healthcare. Their product offerings include ceramic décor colors, chemical dispersions, digital inks, and engineered mineral additives. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and product performance, Cappelle Pigments collaborates closely with clients to tackle specific challenges and enhance their product offerings. The company has a significant presence in Europe, with a workforce distribution of 71% in Belgium, 14% in Italy, and 14% in France. In May 2021, they secured $2.1 billion in funding, which underscores their potential for growth and innovation in the specialty chemicals market.

11. McGean

• Website: mcgean.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, India 3%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1929
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mcgean

McGean is a private chemical manufacturer based in Cleveland, Ohio, with a history dating back to 1929. The company specializes in producing specialty chemicals, particularly chromium chemicals and organic compounds. McGean serves a variety of industries, providing tailored chemical solutions for applications in metal finishing, textiles, and personal care. Their focus on custom manufacturing allows them to meet specific client needs, enhancing their relevance in the specialty chemicals market. With operational facilities in Ohio, Michigan, and the United Kingdom, McGean is well-positioned to serve customers globally. The company employs around 93 people, reflecting a moderate size that supports its specialized operations without the complexities of larger corporations.

12. PVS Chemicals

• Website: pvschemicals.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Detroit, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Belgium 6%, Canada 3%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: December 2023
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: pvs-chemicals

PVS Chemicals, Inc. is a chemical manufacturer and distributor based in Detroit, Michigan, with a workforce of approximately 525 employees. Founded in 1945, the company has built a reputation for providing a wide range of chemical products and services tailored to various industries, including electronics, agriculture, and water treatment. PVS Chemicals emphasizes customer satisfaction and sustainable practices, ensuring that their solutions meet the highest quality standards. Their product offerings include ultra-high purity chemicals essential for the electronics sector, as well as fine chemicals for food, pharmaceutical, and personal care applications. With over 75 years of experience, PVS Chemicals has established itself as a reliable partner in the specialty chemicals market, focusing on safety and sustainability in all aspects of their operations.

13. PMC Group N.A., Inc.

• Website: pmc-group.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Mount Laurel Township, New Jersey, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, India 17%
• Latest funding: September 2019
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: pmc-groupinc

PMC Group N.A., Inc., founded in 1994 and based in Mount Laurel Township, New Jersey, is a chemical manufacturer that specializes in innovative solutions across multiple industries. The company produces a wide range of specialty chemicals, including accelerators, antioxidants, flame retardant additives, and custom pharmaceutical manufacturing services. PMC Group serves sectors such as plastics, consumer products, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, addressing the needs of businesses looking to improve product performance and manufacturing efficiency. With a workforce of approximately 501-1000 employees, the company operates globally, with a significant presence in the United States and India. Their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is evident through initiatives like the Chakrabarti Foundation, which promotes education worldwide. PMC Group's focus on research and development, along with their technical expertise, positions them as a relevant player in the specialty chemicals industry.

14. GEO Specialty Chemicals, Inc.

• Website: geosc.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Ambler, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 62%, United Kingdom (UK) 38%
• Latest funding: September 2019
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: geo-specialty-chemicals

GEO Specialty Chemicals, Inc., based in Ambler, Pennsylvania, is a manufacturer of specialty chemicals that caters to a variety of industries. Established in 1993, the company has built a reputation for providing innovative solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of its clients. GEO specializes in products for coatings, resins, and consumer health applications, serving sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and health. Their extensive product line includes acrylic resins, adhesives, industrial lubricants, and nutraceuticals, among others. The company emphasizes technical support and problem-solving, working closely with customers to enhance product performance and comply with industry standards. GEO's commitment to quality is reflected in their certifications, which include ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, ensuring they meet rigorous safety and environmental standards. With a workforce of around 500 to 1,000 employees, GEO operates primarily in the United States and the United Kingdom, showcasing their international presence in the specialty chemicals market.

15. Harcros

• Website: harcros.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kansas City, Kansas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, India 2%
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: harcros-chemicals

Harcros Chemicals, based in Kansas City, Kansas, has been a player in the chemical manufacturing and distribution industry since its inception in 1917. The company specializes in providing a broad range of chemical products, including acids, amines, silicones, and surfactants, catering to various sectors such as agriculture, automotive care, personal care, and water treatment. Harcros also offers services like toll manufacturing and custom solutions, which allow them to meet specific client needs effectively. With a workforce of around 475 employees, the company emphasizes strong relationships with vendors and customers alike, ensuring reliable operations and a steady supply of products. Their commitment to safety and compliance with regulations underscores their operational integrity, making them a trusted partner in the specialty chemicals market.

16. Lawter Inc.

• Website: lawter.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 27%, Belgium 25%, Netherlands 18%, Other 30%
• Latest funding: $500.0M, October 2000
• Founded year: 1940
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: lawter-inc

Lawter Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, is a chemical manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1940. The company specializes in innovative solutions tailored for the graphic arts, adhesives, specialty coatings, aroma chemicals, and synthetic rubber industries. Lawter's product portfolio includes ink resins, tackifier resins, and specialty coating resins, which are essential for various applications across these sectors. With a workforce of over 160 engineers, Lawter emphasizes research and development to create sustainable and effective chemical solutions. The company operates globally, with a significant presence in the Americas, EMEA, and Asia Pacific regions, and has established nine manufacturing and technology centers worldwide. Lawter's commitment to sustainability is highlighted by their recent recognition with a Gold Award from EcoVadis for their performance in this area.

17. R. T. Vanderbilt Co.

• Website: rtvanderbilt.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Norwalk, Connecticut, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1916
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: r.-t.-vanderbilt-co.

R. T. Vanderbilt Holding Company, Inc., founded in 1916, is a chemical manufacturer and mineral supplier based in Norwalk, Connecticut. The company operates through several subsidiaries, including Vanderbilt Chemicals, LLC and Vanderbilt Minerals, LLC, which provide a wide array of products tailored for industries such as petroleum, rubber, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. With a strong focus on technical support and high-quality raw materials, R. T. Vanderbilt has built a reputation for reliability and expertise in the specialty chemicals market. The company maintains a global presence, supplying products to customers in over 80 countries. Their facilities are certified to ISO 9001 standards, and they adhere to the Responsible Care® initiative, emphasizing their commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

18. PMC Biogenix

• Website: pmcbiogenix.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Netherlands 6%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pmc-biogenix

PMC Biogenix, based in Memphis, Tennessee, is a private chemical manufacturer established in 2008. The company specializes in developing and marketing specialty chemicals derived from renewable resources. With over fifty years of combined experience in oleochemical derivatives, PMC Biogenix caters to various sectors, including chemical manufacturing, personal care, and food. Their product offerings include fatty acids, glycerin, and specialty esters, which are utilized in numerous applications across multiple industries. The company operates a Center for Renewable Chemistry, which serves as a hub for product and application development, emphasizing their commitment to innovation. PMC Biogenix is part of the PMC Group, which has a global presence and focuses on sustainable growth through innovative solutions. They have not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial dependency.

Specialty Chemicals Insights: Key Companies in the US

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
The Lubrizol Corporation	Wickliffe, Ohio, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1928	Private Equity
Kraton Corporation	The Woodlands, Texas, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1995	Corporate
Momentive	Schenectady, New York, United States (USA)	5001-10000	2005	Corporate
Valtris Specialty Chemicals	Independence, Ohio, United States (USA)	501-1000	2014	Corporate
Vantage Specialty Chemicals	Deerfield, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	2008	Private
Porocel International	The Woodlands, Texas, United States (USA)	501-1000	1938	Corporate
Niacet, A Kerry Company	Niagara Falls, New York, United States (USA)	10001+	1978	Corporate
Sonneborn	Amsterdam, New York, United States (USA)	201-500	1903	Corporate
Gulbrandsen	Orangeburg, South Carolina, United States (USA)	501-1000	1984	Private
Cappelle Pigments, A Ferro Company	Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)	201-500	1919	Corporate
McGean	Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)	51-200	1929	Private
PVS Chemicals	Detroit, Michigan, United States (USA)	501-1000	1945	Corporate
PMC Group N.A., Inc.	Mount Laurel Township, New Jersey, United States (USA)	501-1000	1994	Corporate
GEO Specialty Chemicals, Inc.	Ambler, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)	501-1000	1993	Corporate
Harcros	Kansas City, Kansas, United States (USA)	501-1000	1917	Private
Lawter Inc.	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1940	Corporate
R. T. Vanderbilt Co.	Norwalk, Connecticut, United States (USA)	501-1000	1916	Private
PMC Biogenix	Memphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)	51-200	2008	Private

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