Chemical manufacturing in Illinois illustrates a vital sector focusing on producing a variety of substances essential to everyday life. Companies here manufacture products used in industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and food production. With a growing emphasis on sustainability, many firms are innovating with bio-based and eco-friendly products. The industry is increasingly moving towards advanced manufacturing technologies, enhancing efficiency while addressing environmental concerns. Illinois remains a key player with a rich history in chemical processing, continually adapting to the demands of global markets and shifting regulatory landscapes. Safety and compliance are paramount, shaping operational practices across the board.

This list features 23 chemical manufacturing companies stationed in Illinois, showcasing a mix of established enterprises and newer innovators. Ranging in size from small firms with fewer than 50 employees to larger organizations employing hundreds, these companies span various sectors from specialty chemicals to agricultural solutions. Founded primarily from the 1930s through the 2000s, these firms indicate a pattern of growth and adaptation. Their headquarters, situated mainly in urban hubs like Chicago and suburban regional centers, reflect a strategic location for logistical advantages and market access.

Continue reading to explore notable chemical manufacturing companies in Illinois.

Top 23 Chemical Manufacturing Companies in Illinois

1. 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, based in Deerfield, Illinois, is a manufacturer specializing in chemical ingredients and formulations. Established in 2008, the company serves a variety of sectors, including personal care, food production, and industrial applications. Vantage is known for its commitment to providing high-quality, customized chemical solutions that meet the specific needs of its clients. The company operates with a strong focus on bio-based surfactant chemistry, utilizing natural oils and other sustainable feedstocks in its products. With a workforce of approximately 732 employees, Vantage has a significant presence in the Americas and Europe, and it actively engages in industry events to showcase its innovations. Their product portfolio includes over 2000 tailored formulations, emphasizing their capability to adapt to market demands and customer requirements.

2. NanoChem Solutions, Inc.

• Website: nanochemsolutions.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Peru, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: nanochem-solutions-inc-

NanoChem Solutions, Inc., founded in 2004 and based in Peru, Illinois, is a chemical manufacturing company that specializes in sustainable chemical solutions. The company operates with a workforce of 11-50 employees and has established itself in several key markets, including agriculture, detergents, food and nutraceuticals, oil and gas, and water treatment. NanoChem is known for its innovative products such as biodegradable polymers and eco-friendly detergents, which are designed to meet the growing demand for environmentally responsible solutions. Their state-of-the-art facility supports advanced manufacturing processes, including spray drying and the production of customized beadlets. With a strong emphasis on research and development, NanoChem Solutions aims to provide effective and sustainable alternatives to traditional chemicals, thereby enhancing the profitability and market distinction of its clients. The company holds various certifications, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards across its product lines.

3. Hallstar

• Website: hallstar.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, Italy 10%, Brazil 9%, Other 11%
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: the-hallstar-company

Hallstar, founded in 1986 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private chemical manufacturer that specializes in innovative ester chemistry solutions tailored for the beauty and industrial sectors. The company offers a range of products, including brominated flame retardants and phthalate-free plasticizers, which cater to businesses seeking specialized chemical solutions. Hallstar's operations are primarily B2B, focusing on customer engagement through inquiries and distributor support. With a workforce of approximately 265 employees, Hallstar has a significant presence in the United States, with additional operations in Italy, Brazil, and France. The company has broadened its manufacturing footprint with the acquisition of a polymer additives plant in Greensboro, further enhancing its product portfolio and market reach.

4. Daubert Chemical Company

• Website: daubertchemical.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Canada 4%, Mexico 4%
• Founded year: 1935
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: daubert-chemical-company

Daubert Chemical Company, based in Chicago, Illinois, has been a significant player in the chemical manufacturing sector since its inception in 1935. The company specializes in producing coatings, adhesives, lubricants, and additives, catering to a variety of industries, including automotive and military. Daubert's products are designed to enhance performance while promoting sustainability, reflecting a commitment to reducing corrosion and energy consumption. Their innovative solutions, such as the Nox-Rust line of rust preventive coatings, are engineered to extend the life of durable goods and minimize environmental impact. Operating primarily through a network of distributors, Daubert has built a reputation for reliability and quality, serving clients across the United States and beyond. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model that has allowed it to thrive for nearly nine decades.

5. Interstate Chemical Co

• Website: interstatechemical.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rock Island, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: interstate-chemical-co

Interstate Chemical Co, based in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, is a chemical manufacturer and distributor that has been operational since 1968. The company specializes in a broad spectrum of industrial and specialty chemicals, including heat transfer fluids and environmental services. They are known for their custom blending and packaging capabilities, which allow them to cater to the specific needs of various industries while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Interstate Chemical also operates a private transportation fleet, Alpont Transportation, which enhances their service delivery and logistical efficiency. Their product offerings include a range of chemicals such as resins, plasticizers, and catalysts, alongside their well-regarded INTERCOOL® glycol-based heat transfer fluids. The company is ISO 9001:2015 certified, reflecting their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. With a workforce dedicated to excellence, Interstate Chemical continues to adapt and grow within the chemical manufacturing sector.

6. DynaChem,Inc.

• Website: dynacheminc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Westville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: dynachem-inc.

DynaChem, Inc., based in Westville, Illinois, is a private chemical manufacturer that specializes in producing aromatic sulfonic acids, furan resins, and phenolic resins. Established in 1993, the company has a rich history in custom and toll manufacturing, dating back to 1968. DynaChem caters to a variety of industries, including adhesives, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture, providing high-quality chemical products tailored to specific customer needs. The company prides itself on its strong research and development capabilities, which allow it to innovate and optimize its product offerings continuously. DynaChem operates a well-equipped facility that includes pilot plants and analytical laboratories, ensuring that they can meet the rigorous demands of their clients. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their ISO certification and adherence to environmental regulations, reflecting a responsible approach to chemical manufacturing.

7. Elé Corporation

• Website: elecorporation.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lyons, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, India 6%
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ele-pelron-corporation

Elé Corporation, based in Lyons, Illinois, is a private chemical manufacturer that has been operational since 1945. The company specializes in producing specialty chemicals tailored for various industries, including personal care, agriculture, and polyurethane. With a workforce of approximately 108 employees, Elé Corporation prides itself on its innovative approach to chemical manufacturing. They focus on sustainability, offering products like 100% naturally derived emollients and sulfate-free surfactants. Their commitment to research and development allows them to create customized solutions that enhance product performance while adhering to environmental safety standards. Elé's manufacturing facility is ISO 9001-2015 certified, ensuring high-quality production processes. The company serves a global market, with a significant portion of its operations based in the United States, and maintains a strong emphasis on collaboration with clients to meet their specific needs.

8. Cedar Concepts Corporation

• Website: cedarconcepts.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cedar-concepts-corporation

Cedar Concepts Corporation, founded in 1990 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a private chemical manufacturer that specializes in surfactants, lubricants, and chemical intermediates. The company serves a variety of industries, including personal care, household products, metalworking, agriculture, and aerospace. Cedar Concepts is recognized for its innovative solutions and contract manufacturing services, which cater to the specific needs of its clients. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality and customer service, ensuring that it remains a trusted partner in the chemical sector. With a workforce of 30 employees, Cedar Concepts emphasizes flexibility and rapid response times, which are critical in meeting the demands of its diverse customer base. Their manufacturing capabilities include unique processes such as flaking and pastillation, which enhance product handling and efficiency. Cedar Concepts operates without reported funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model that focuses on operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

9. Obiter Research LLC

• Website: obires.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Champaign, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: obiterresearch

Obiter Research LLC, based in Champaign, Illinois, is a private chemical manufacturer and research and development firm established in 2001. The company focuses on laboratory scale chemistry and manufacturing services, catering primarily to businesses in the pharmaceutical and specialty chemical industries. With a team of skilled chemists, Obiter Research excels in providing high-quality chemical products and analytical services that address complex chemical development needs. Their facility spans 20,000 square feet and is equipped with advanced reactors and distillation equipment, enabling them to handle a variety of synthetic processes. The company prides itself on its innovative approach, combining engineering and chemistry to overcome challenges in product development. Obiter Research is committed to customer satisfaction and actively seeks to build long-term relationships with its clients, ensuring that their specific needs are met with precision and care.

10. 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. is a chemical manufacturer based in Chicago, Illinois, with a history dating back to 1940. The company specializes in providing innovative chemical solutions tailored for the graphic arts, adhesives, specialty coatings, aroma chemicals, and synthetic rubber industries. Lawter's product offerings include ink resins, tackifier resins, and specialty coating resins, which are essential for various applications across these sectors. With a workforce of approximately 273 employees, Lawter operates globally, serving clients in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. The company is committed to sustainability and innovation, as evidenced by their recent accolades for environmental performance. Lawter's strategic focus on developing cleaner chemistry solutions positions them as a relevant player in the chemical manufacturing industry.

11. Nichols Display Group, Inc.

• Website: gonichols.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Northbrook, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: nichols-display-group-inc-

Nichols Display Group, Inc., founded in 1996 and based in Northbrook, Illinois, is a private company that specializes in the manufacturing of fine chemicals and polymer materials. The company offers a range of products, including PEKK pellets and various chlorinated compounds. These products are essential for applications in high-stakes industries such as pharmaceuticals and aerospace, where quality and performance are critical. Nichols Display Group focuses on providing high-quality materials that support both manufacturing and research applications. The company operates entirely within the United States, emphasizing its commitment to local production and service. Despite its smaller size, Nichols Display Group plays a significant role in supplying specialized chemical products to its target markets.

12. AB Specialty Silicones

• Website: andisil.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Waukegan, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, China 5%, Spain 5%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ab-specialty-silicones

AB Specialty Silicones, based in Waukegan, Illinois, is a manufacturer and distributor of specialty silicone chemicals. Founded in 1995, the company has established itself as a reliable source for silicone raw materials across multiple industries, including personal care, coatings, and medical applications. With a workforce of approximately 67 employees, AB Specialty Silicones emphasizes customer service and technical expertise, ensuring that they can effectively address the specific needs of their clients. Their product catalog features a wide array of silicone materials, such as antifoams, catalysts, and crosslinkers, which are essential in various formulations. The company operates a state-of-the-art research and development facility, further enhancing its ability to innovate and provide tailored solutions. AB Specialty Silicones is also recognized for its commitment to safety and compliance, particularly following a tragic incident in 2019, which has shaped their operational practices and community engagement.

13. Rowell Chemical Corporation

• Website: rowellchemical.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Hinsdale, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rowell-chemical-corporation

Rowell Chemical Corporation, based in Hinsdale, Illinois, has been a significant player in the chemical manufacturing sector since its inception in 1980. The company specializes in the production and distribution of inorganic acid and alkali compounds, catering to a variety of industrial applications. Their product lineup includes essential chemicals such as Sodium Hypochlorite, Hydrochloric Acid, Sulfuric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, and Potassium Hydroxide. Rowell Chemical serves a broad spectrum of industries, including water treatment, food processing, and manufacturing, ensuring that their products meet the rigorous demands of these sectors. The company emphasizes quality and safety in its operations, which is reflected in its commitment to responsible distribution practices. Rowell Chemical also operates a subsidiary, Milport Enterprises, which enhances its distribution capabilities. With a dedicated workforce and a focus on customer service, Rowell Chemical Corporation continues to play a vital role in the chemical manufacturing industry.

14. PMP Fermentation Products, Inc.

• Website: pmpinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Peoria, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pmp-fermentation-products

PMP Fermentation Products, Inc., based in Peoria, Illinois, is a chemical manufacturer that specializes in fermentation products. Founded in 1985, the company has carved out a niche in producing biodegradable and environmentally friendly chemicals, including sodium gluconate and citric acid. These products are primarily used in industrial and food applications, serving clients in sectors such as food production and cleaning. PMP Fermentation emphasizes quality and customer service, ensuring that their offerings meet the expectations of their clients. As a subsidiary of FUSO Chemical Co., Ltd., PMP benefits from a broader corporate structure while maintaining a focus on sustainable practices. The company is currently expanding its operations to double its capacity by 2027, reflecting its commitment to growth and adaptation in a competitive market.

15. NAGASE Specialty Materials

• Website: nsm-na.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Itasca, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fitz-chem-corp

NAGASE Specialty Materials, based in Itasca, Illinois, is a chemical distributor and manufacturer that specializes in specialty chemicals and chemical technologies. Founded in 1985 as Fitz Chem, the company has evolved significantly over the years. In 2017, it became part of the NAGASE Group, a prominent global entity known for its high-end chemical solutions. NAGASE Specialty Materials serves a wide array of industries, including textiles, coatings, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. They pride themselves on their technical expertise and supply reliability, which are critical in helping clients navigate complex manufacturing challenges. The company also emphasizes innovation, offering R&D support and application testing through its innovation centers. Their extensive supplier network and commitment to customer success further solidify their role in the chemical manufacturing sector.

16. Chem-Impex International, Inc.

• Website: chemimpex.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Wood Dale, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, India 16%
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: chem-impex-international-inc.

Chem-Impex International, Inc., founded in 1981 and based in Wood Dale, Illinois, is a private chemical supplier that specializes in a broad range of products tailored for the pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors. The company offers an extensive catalog that includes biochemicals, reagents, and peptide synthesis tools, catering to the needs of researchers and organizations engaged in scientific exploration. With a workforce of 25 employees, Chem-Impex emphasizes quality and efficiency in its service delivery, ensuring that clients receive high-quality materials promptly. The company operates primarily in the United States, with a small percentage of its workforce based in India. Their dedication to maintaining high standards is reflected in their ISO 9001:2015 certification, which underscores their commitment to quality management in their operations.

17. AmBeed

• Website: ambeed.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arlington Heights, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, China 24%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: ambeed

AmBeed, founded in 2015 and based in Arlington Heights, Illinois, is a private company that operates in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The firm specializes in the production and distribution of a wide range of chemical compounds, including boronic acids, pharmaceutical intermediates, and organometallic reagents. Their clientele primarily consists of pharmaceutical companies and research institutions that require high-quality materials for drug development and scientific research. With a workforce of between 501 and 1000 employees, AmBeed has established a significant presence in the market, particularly in the United States and China, where they have a notable employee distribution. The company is committed to providing competitive pricing and efficient shipping, often delivering products within one to two days. AmBeed's extensive catalog includes over 120,000 compounds, showcasing their capability to meet the specific needs of their customers in the chemical sector.

18. Pico Chemical Corporation

• Website: picochemical.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Chicago Heights, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pico-chemical-corporation

Pico Chemical Corporation, established in 1976 and based in Chicago Heights, Illinois, is a family-owned manufacturer specializing in high-performance specialty chemicals and lubricants. The company serves various industries, particularly metalworking and coatings, providing products that focus on cleaning, lubrication, and corrosion prevention. Their product line includes adhesion promoters, metalworking fluids, rust and corrosion inhibitors, and custom formulations tailored to meet specific customer needs. Pico Chemical is dedicated to environmental compliance and operational efficiency, ensuring that their solutions not only enhance performance but also align with regulatory standards. With a commitment to quality, they maintain an ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management system, underscoring their focus on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

19. Keystone Aniline Corporation

• Website: dyes.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, China 50%
• Founded year: 1920
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: keystone-aniline-corporation

Keystone Aniline Corporation is a private company based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1920. It specializes in the production of dyes and colorants, serving various industries that require these chemical products. The company has a notable presence in the dye manufacturing sector, providing solutions that cater to the needs of textile, coatings, and other applications. Keystone Aniline is committed to quality and sustainability, focusing on innovative solutions that meet the evolving demands of its customers. With a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, the company operates with a significant portion of its workforce based in China, indicating a global operational footprint. However, there is no recent funding reported, suggesting a stable but possibly conservative growth strategy.

20. Diversified CPC

• Website: diversifiedcpc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Channahon, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1964
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: diversifiedcpc

Diversified CPC International Inc, based in Channahon, Illinois, is a private chemical manufacturer established in 1964. The company specializes in producing high-purity hydrocarbons, specialty gases, and refrigerants. Their products cater to a variety of industries, notably semiconductor manufacturing, where precision and purity are paramount. Diversified CPC is recognized for its custom formulations and engineering services, allowing them to tailor solutions to meet specific client requirements. They are also committed to sustainability, producing refrigerants with low global warming potential and zero ozone depletion potential. The company operates entirely within the United States and has built a reputation for quality and reliability, serving well-known brands across multiple sectors.

21. Carus

• Website: carusllc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Peru, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Peru 4%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1915
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: carus-corporation

Carus LLC, based in Peru, Illinois, is an environmental solutions provider that specializes in chemical manufacturing aimed at addressing critical environmental challenges. Founded in 1915, the company has over a century of experience in developing products for water treatment, air purification, and soil remediation. Carus serves municipalities and businesses globally, providing innovative solutions that focus on cleaning water, air, and soil across various applications. Their product offerings cater to multiple sectors, including municipal water systems, wastewater treatment, oil and gas, mining, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Carus is committed to sustainability and actively participates in community outreach, supporting educational initiatives and environmental projects. They are also a member of the American Chemistry Council, engaging in the Responsible Care initiative to enhance health, safety, and environmental performance. With a workforce of approximately 168 employees, Carus continues to evolve its solutions to meet the growing needs of its customers and the environment.

22. Americo Chemical

• Website: americochemical.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Elgin, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: May 2023
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: americo-chemical-products-inc.

Americo Chemical, founded in 1998 and based in Elgin, Illinois, operates as a private equity-backed chemical supplier and consulting service. The company specializes in providing custom chemical solutions tailored to the needs of the manufacturing sector. Their product range includes metalworking fluids, coatings, and wastewater chemistry, all designed to enhance manufacturing efficiency and sustainability. Americo Chemical serves a variety of clients across different manufacturing industries, focusing on improving process quality and operational performance. Their consultative approach, known as the Total Systems Approach, allows them to identify inefficiencies in clients' production processes and recommend strategic improvements. This commitment to quality and customer service is underscored by their ISO-9001:2015 certification, which reflects their dedication to maintaining high standards in their operations.

23. IvanhoeIndustries

• Website: ivanhoeind.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Zion, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ivanhoeindustries

Ivanhoe Industries Inc., based in Zion, Illinois, has been operational since 1979. This privately owned company specializes in manufacturing foam control agents, emulsifiers, and hydrophobic silica. Their products cater to a variety of industries, including food processing, agriculture, and personal care. Ivanhoe is dedicated to providing tailored solutions that meet specific customer needs, which is evident in their custom development capabilities. The company operates certified manufacturing facilities that comply with stringent food safety standards, ensuring that their products are safe for use in food applications. Ivanhoe's focus on sustainability is reflected in their use of bio-based raw materials and their commitment to reducing environmental impact. They have built a reputation for quality and customer service, with many long-standing relationships in the industry. Their facilities are equipped with advanced technology for both production and research, allowing them to innovate and adapt to market demands effectively.

Chemical Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

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