Virginia's chemical manufacturing sector is characterized by its innovation and adaptability, producing essential materials that fuel various industries. This field includes companies specializing in specialty chemicals, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. With a focus on sustainable practices and the use of advanced technology, firms are increasingly integrating eco-friendly solutions into their production processes. The industry's growth is fueled by rising demand for effective and efficient chemical solutions across multiple sectors, ranging from agriculture to health care, making it a vital component of both the state and national economy.


The list features 19 prominent chemical manufacturing companies in Virginia, highlighting firms of various sizes from small startups like Capra Biosciences to large entities such as ChemTreat. Founded between 1921 and 2022, these companies are located in key cities, including Richmond, Chesapeake, and Danville. Each firm specializes in unique offerings such as fuel additives, water treatment solutions, and agricultural biotechnology, showcasing a varied industry landscape. These companies reflect not only regional opportunities but also trends that align with global chemical advancements.


Continue reading to discover the top chemical manufacturing companies in Virginia.


Top 19 Chemical Manufacturing Companies in Virginia


1. DanChem

  • Website: danchem.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Danville, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Latest funding: December 2016
  • Founded year: 1960
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: danchem

DanChem, now known as Ascent Chemicals, is a chemical manufacturer based in Danville, Virginia, with a history dating back to 1960. The company specializes in producing specialty chemicals that cater to various industries, including coatings, adhesives, oil and gas, and personal care. Ascent Chemicals prides itself on providing tailored solutions to meet the intricate demands of its clients. With a workforce of approximately 68 employees, the company operates with a focus on agility and innovation, utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques and a broad product range. Their capabilities include batch organic synthesis and key unit operations such as blending, formulation, and crystallization. Ascent Chemicals has developed a reputation for addressing complex challenges in chemical manufacturing, making them a significant player in the specialty chemicals market.


2. Ethyl Corporation

  • Website: ethyl.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 66%, Canada 34%
  • Founded year: 1921
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: ethyl-corporation

Ethyl Corporation, founded in 1921 and based in Richmond, Virginia, is a private chemical manufacturer that specializes in blending and supply solutions for fuel additives. The company primarily serves the automotive and aviation sectors, providing products designed to enhance fuel performance and safety. With a strong operational presence in Richmond and Houston, Ethyl Corporation has developed a reputation for quality and reliability in the production of antiknock compounds, which are crucial for high-performance fuels. The company is also committed to safety and environmental stewardship, participating in the American Chemical Council’s Responsible Care® initiative. Ethyl's facilities are ISO certified, reflecting its dedication to maintaining high standards in manufacturing and product quality. The company operates without reported external funding, indicating a stable financial structure supported by its long-standing market presence.


3. FUJIFILM Wako Chemicals USA

  • Website: wakousa.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Italy 4%, China 4%
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: wako-chemicals-usa

FUJIFILM Wako Chemicals USA, established in 1981, operates as a subsidiary of FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation of Japan. Based in Richmond, Virginia, the company manufactures and supplies high purity chemicals and reagents tailored for various applications, particularly in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Their product lines include laboratory chemicals, specialty chemicals, and Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) for endotoxin testing. The company has a strong emphasis on quality and innovation, ensuring that their products meet stringent industry standards. In recent years, they have expanded their offerings to include automated laboratory solutions, reflecting their adaptability to market demands. With a workforce of around 79 employees, FUJIFILM Wako Chemicals USA continues to play a significant role in the chemical manufacturing sector, contributing to research and production processes across multiple industries.


4. Capra Biosciences

  • Website: caprabiosciences.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manassas, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Convertible note, November 2024
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: capra-biosciences

Capra Biosciences, founded in 2020 and based in Manassas, Virginia, is a biotechnology firm dedicated to sustainable chemical production. The company specializes in utilizing advanced bioreactor technology and biofilm processes to manufacture renewable chemicals, including retinol, which is widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Capra's innovative approach focuses on converting waste materials into valuable products, thereby addressing both economic and environmental challenges. Recently, they secured a $7.5 million project agreement to demonstrate their platform for rapidly scaling the manufacture of bio-derived small-molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This project highlights their commitment to enhancing domestic biomanufacturing capabilities and reducing reliance on overseas production. With a small team of experts in various scientific fields, Capra is positioned to make significant contributions to the chemical manufacturing industry, particularly in the realm of sustainable practices.


5. Mitsubishi Kagaku Imaging Corporation


Mitsubishi Kagaku Imaging Corporation, based in Chesapeake, Virginia, is a private chemical manufacturer established in 2005. The company is part of Mitsubishi Chemical America and focuses on producing a wide array of materials, including battery materials, display materials, and various films and sheets. They cater to multiple industries, such as automotive, medical, and packaging, providing tailored solutions that meet specific business needs. Their product offerings include advanced materials like polyester films, water-soluble films, and synthetic papers, showcasing their commitment to innovation and quality. With a workforce primarily located in Mexico, Mitsubishi Kagaku Imaging Corporation continues to play a significant role in the chemical manufacturing sector, addressing the evolving demands of their clients.


6. ChemTreat

  • Website: chemtreat.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Glen Allen, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 68%, Mexico 14%, Brazil 8%, Other 11%
  • Latest funding: $435.0M, May 2007
  • Founded year: 1968
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: chemtreat-inc-

ChemTreat, Inc., based in Glen Allen, Virginia, has been a key player in the water treatment sector since its founding in 1968. The company focuses on providing industrial water treatment solutions tailored to various industries, including chemical processing, food and beverage, and power generation. Their offerings include boiler and cooling water treatment, wastewater management, and advanced monitoring systems. ChemTreat's expertise helps businesses optimize their water usage, enhance operational efficiency, and meet environmental standards. With a workforce of approximately 1,442 employees, ChemTreat operates not only in the United States but also has a presence in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Chile, reflecting its regional influence. The company has developed over 1,200 proprietary product formulations, showcasing its commitment to innovation and customer service in the water treatment field.


7. Mitsubishi Chemical America - ALPOLIC Division


Mitsubishi Chemical America - ALPOLIC Division, founded in 1991 and based in Chesapeake, Virginia, is a private chemical manufacturer that specializes in a wide array of materials and products. The company is part of the Mitsubishi Chemical Group and focuses on providing innovative solutions across several industries, including automotive, medical, and packaging. Their product offerings include battery materials, display materials, polymers, and specialty films, which are essential for various applications. Mitsubishi Chemical America is dedicated to advancing technology through chemistry, contributing to sectors such as aerospace, energy production, and food packaging. The company operates with a workforce of approximately 30 employees and maintains a strong presence in the U.S. market, emphasizing collaboration and innovation to meet the changing demands of its customers.


8. American Borate Company, L.L.C.


American Borate Company, L.L.C., based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, has been a key player in the chemical supply industry since its inception in 1980. Originally a division of Owens Corning Fiberglas, the company has been family-owned since 1990. Specializing in boron products, American Borate serves critical sectors including glass, ceramics, and agriculture. They provide a range of essential materials such as boric acid, boric oxide, and various forms of borax. The company prides itself on high-quality products and efficient logistics, ensuring that customer needs are met promptly. With a strong emphasis on customer partnerships, American Borate has developed innovative solutions and technologies that have positively impacted their clients' operations. Their extensive experience in sourcing borates from Turkey, which holds a significant portion of the world's borate reserves, further solidifies their position in the market. The company has built a reputation for reliability and quality, making it a notable entity in the chemical manufacturing landscape.


9. QualiChem Metalworking

  • Website: qualichem.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Salem, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, India 3%, Canada 3%, Other 3%
  • Latest funding: August 2018
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: qualichem-metalworking

QualiChem Metalworking, based in Salem, Virginia, is a chemical manufacturer that specializes in producing metalworking fluids, cleaners, and corrosion inhibitors. Established in 1989, the company has grown from a small specialty chemical firm into a recognized supplier in the metalworking sector. QualiChem's products are designed to enhance manufacturing processes across various industries, including aerospace, medical, and semiconductor. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality and customer support, providing tailored solutions to meet specific client needs. With a workforce of around 101 employees, QualiChem operates not only in the United States but also has a presence in countries like India, Canada, and Malaysia. Their manufacturing facilities adhere to stringent quality standards, as evidenced by their ISO 9001:2015 certification. QualiChem's innovative approach and focus on customer satisfaction have allowed them to establish strong relationships with clients worldwide, ensuring their products remain relevant in a competitive market.


10. CHT USA - Richmond

  • Website: quantumsilicones.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1997
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: quantum-silicones

CHT USA - Richmond, a private company founded in 1997, specializes in the production of silicone materials tailored for a variety of applications across multiple industries. Their product lineup includes silicone foams, adhesives, and coatings, which cater to the needs of sectors such as automotive, electronics, and personal care. CHT USA operates on a global scale, providing not only high-quality products but also technical support and custom solutions to meet specific client requirements. The company is part of the CHT Group, which has expanded its capabilities through acquisitions, enhancing its position in the silicone manufacturing market. With a workforce of around 35 employees, CHT USA is dedicated to delivering innovative silicone solutions that address the evolving demands of its customers.


11. AgroSpheres

  • Website: agrospheres.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Series B, $12.0M, September 2024
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: agrospheres

AgroSpheres, based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is an agricultural biotechnology company founded in 2016. The firm specializes in sustainable crop protection and health solutions, focusing on innovative products that enhance crop yields while being environmentally friendly. Their offerings include biodegradable encapsulation technology and biological pesticides, which are designed to provide effective pest control methods for agricultural producers. Recently, AgroSpheres secured $37 million in Series B funding, which will support their product development and expansion efforts. The company is committed to transforming agriculture through reliable, bio-based solutions that prioritize both performance and environmental sustainability.


12. Lubes'n'Greases

  • Website: lubesngreases.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Falls Church, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, United Kingdom (UK) 12%, India 12%
  • Latest funding: May 2013
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: lng-publishing-co-

Lubes'n'Greases, founded in 1995 and based in Falls Church, Virginia, is a company dedicated to the lubricants industry. They offer a comprehensive range of products, including additives, base stocks, and finished lubricants, serving both automotive and industrial sectors. Their products are essential for machinery and vehicle maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Beyond manufacturing, Lubes'n'Greases is also a key player in the industry through its publication of news and reports, which keep clients informed about market trends and innovations. With a workforce of 24 employees, the company operates primarily in the United States, with additional presence in the UK and India, reflecting its international reach and influence in the lubricants market.


13. Rice Industries

  • Website: rice-industries.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Ettrick, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, India 11%, United Arab Emirates 11%
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: rice-industries

Rice Industries, founded in 2010 and based in Ettrick, Virginia, is a contract manufacturer that specializes in advanced materials. The company has carved out a niche in processing specialty materials for a variety of applications, including pharmaceuticals, battery technology, and 3D printing. Rice Industries serves a broad spectrum of clients across the material supply chain, offering services that range from research and development to scale-up and product customization. Their strategic focus on transformative themes such as bio-based and recyclable polymers, lightweighting for energy reduction, and innovations in battery technology highlights their commitment to driving advancements in specialty materials. The company operates with a clear mission to expedite the commercialization of innovative materials, making them a significant player in the chemical manufacturing industry.


14. Itag

  • Website: itaginfo.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Qatar 33%, Morocco 33%, United States (USA) 33%
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: itag

Itag, also known as Henan Shuangcheng Environmental Technology, is a private company based in Alexandria, Virginia. Founded in 1998, Itag specializes in the design and manufacture of industrial equipment aimed at waste management and chemical processing. Their product offerings include waste incinerators, evaporators, and heat exchangers, which cater to the needs of industries such as chemicals and pharmaceuticals. The company emphasizes enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring environmental compliance through its solutions. With a workforce of around 65 employees, Itag operates with a global footprint, having a significant presence in Qatar, Morocco, and the United States. Their commitment to providing effective waste management solutions positions them as a relevant entity in the chemical manufacturing sector.


15. Luna Labs USA

  • Website: lunalabs.us
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Other (Grant), $75,000, August 2023
  • Founded year: 2022
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: luna-labs-us

Luna Labs USA, founded in 2022 and based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a private company that operates at the intersection of technology and product development. With a workforce of around 90 employees, the company focuses on advanced materials, engineered systems, and biotechnology. They cater to sectors such as aerospace, defense, and healthcare, providing innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety. Luna Labs is known for its products like ACUITY Corrosion Sensors and Gentoo Hydrophobic Coatings, which showcase their expertise in materials science. The company actively collaborates with universities, government labs, and industry partners to bring cutting-edge technologies to market. Recently, they secured a grant of $75,000 in August 2023, indicating ongoing investment in their research and development efforts.


16. Morphix Technologies, Inc

  • Website: morphtec.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Other (Grant), $225,000, December 2015
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: morphix-technologies-inc

Morphix Technologies, Inc., founded in 1995 and based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, specializes in chemical and explosive detection solutions. The company has carved out a niche in the market with its innovative products, including SafeAir/ChromAir Badges, Chameleon Armband, and TraceX Kits. These products are designed to monitor exposure to hazardous chemicals and detect explosives, serving critical roles in industries such as law enforcement, military, healthcare, and construction. Morphix Technologies has a history of providing reliable detection tools that enhance safety and compliance in environments where chemical exposure poses significant risks. The company has also received funding, with a notable grant of $225,000 in December 2015, which supports its ongoing development and production efforts.


17. Solar Biotech

  • Website: solarbiotech.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Norton, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Canada 14%
  • Latest funding: September 2024
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: solar-bioprocessing-llc

Solar Biotech, Inc., founded in 2019 and based in Norton, Virginia, is a biotechnology company that specializes in sustainable biomanufacturing solutions tailored for synthetic biology products. The company focuses on developing customized modular plant architectures, known as BioNodes, which are designed to produce a variety of products, including biodesigned cosmetics and functional food ingredients. Their operations are powered by solar energy and utilize recycled resources, emphasizing a commitment to environmental sustainability. With a team boasting over 100 years of combined experience in biotechnology and regulatory affairs, Solar Biotech is positioned to make significant contributions to the industry by producing carbon-neutral and water-neutral SynBio products.


18. ProChem Inc.

  • Website: prochemwater.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Elliston, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: prochem-inc-

ProChem Inc., founded in 1993 and based in Elliston, Virginia, is a private company that specializes in industrial water management solutions. With a workforce of approximately 94 employees, ProChem focuses on providing comprehensive services that include wastewater treatment systems, chemical programs, and maintenance services tailored to meet the needs of various industries. Their expertise lies in developing custom solutions for industrial water challenges, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while enhancing operational efficiency. ProChem's offerings include a range of chemical products, notably barium chloride, which is utilized in wastewater treatment and other industrial applications. The company prides itself on its ability to assess and address unique water issues through process engineering evaluations and treatability testing, thereby delivering effective and sustainable water management strategies.


19. Target Flavors

  • Website: targetflavors.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Newport News, Virginia, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: target-flavors-inc

Target Flavors, established in 1981, is a private flavor house based in Newport News, Virginia, with additional facilities in Brookfield, Connecticut. The company focuses on custom flavor development tailored for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. With a dedicated team of flavor chemists and food technologists, Target Flavors collaborates closely with clients to create innovative flavor solutions that enhance product offerings. Their expertise spans various applications, including beverages, dairy, bakery, and health and wellness products. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality, utilizing stringent quality control measures to ensure the stability and performance of its flavor systems. Target Flavors has built a reputation for reliability and personalized service, helping clients navigate the complexities of flavor formulation and product development.



Chemical Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in Virginia


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
DanChemDanville, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001960Private Equity
Ethyl CorporationRichmond, Virginia, United States (USA)1001-50001921Private
FUJIFILM Wako Chemicals USARichmond, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001981Private
Capra BiosciencesManassas, Virginia, United States (USA)1-102020Venture Capital
Mitsubishi Kagaku Imaging CorporationChesapeake, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2002005Private
ChemTreatGlen Allen, Virginia, United States (USA)1001-50001968Corporate
Mitsubishi Chemical America - ALPOLIC DivisionChesapeake, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001991Private
American Borate Company, L.L.C.Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001980Private
QualiChem MetalworkingSalem, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001989Corporate
CHT USA - RichmondRichmond, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501997Private
AgroSpheresCharlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502016Venture Capital
Lubes'n'GreasesFalls Church, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501995Corporate
Rice IndustriesEttrick, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2002010Private
ItagAlexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)1-101998Private
Luna Labs USACharlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2002022Private
Morphix Technologies, IncVirginia Beach, Virginia, United States (USA)11-501995Private
Solar BiotechNorton, Virginia, United States (USA)11-502019Corporate
ProChem Inc.Elliston, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001993Private
Target FlavorsNewport News, Virginia, United States (USA)51-2001981Private


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