From Chemistry 4.0 to Hydrogen
Global Chemical Trends
Driven by technological innovations, growing sustainability pressures and geopolitical challenges, new trends are emerging in the international chemical industry that will have a lasting impact on the industry. An overview:
Sustainability as a growth engine
The pressure for sustainability is having a significant impact on the chemical industry. Companies are increasingly investing in green technologies to reduce their CO2 footprint. Circular economy and bio-based raw materials in particular are gaining in importance, with a focus on plastic recycling: mechanical and chemical recycling technologies are being further developed to close the life cycle of plastics. BASF and Dow Chemical, for example, are investing in plants that rely on innovative recycling methods. In addition, collaborations are being established across industries to make recycling more efficient.
Digitalization: Chemistry 4.0
Digitalization is another key factor for the future of the chemical industry. Under the keyword “Chemistry 4.0”, companies are increasingly implementing artificial intelligence (AI), automation and IoT (Internet of Things) in their processes. These technologies promise greater efficiency and cost savings. For example, AI is being used to develop new molecules and materials more quickly. The optimization of production facilities through predictive maintenance and data-driven process monitoring is also revolutionizing the industry. Companies such as Evonik and Clariant are among the pioneers in this area.
Geopolitics and supply chains
Global supply chains remain vulnerable due to geopolitical tensions. Shortages of raw materials and trade restrictions are forcing chemical companies to diversify their sources of supply and expand local production capacities. A striking example is the increasing in-house production of specialty chemicals in Europe and the USA in order to reduce dependence on Asian manufacturers. At the same time, partnerships with new suppliers in emerging markets such as India and South America are gaining in importance.
Hydrogen as the key to climate neutrality
Hydrogen is considered a key technology for a climate-neutral industry. Chemical companies are increasingly relying on green hydrogen to replace fossil fuels in energy-intensive processes. This will result in new plants and projects that will drive the expansion of the hydrogen economy. For example, Linde and its partners have announced significant investments in hydrogen pipelines and electrolysis plants. Companies such as Air Liquide and Shell are also driving development in this area.
New materials and innovations
The demand for innovative materials is growing worldwide. The main focus is on high-performance materials used in electromobility, renewable energies and the electronics industry. In addition, lightweight materials for aerospace and battery materials for electric vehicles are important. One example is the further development of solid-state batteries, in which chemical companies such as Solvay and LG Chem are leading. These batteries promise higher energy densities and shorter charging times, which makes them particularly attractive for electric vehicles.
Focus on sustainability, digitalization and innovative materials
The chemical industry is in a dynamic market phase. Sustainability, digitalization and innovative materials are driving the agenda, while geopolitical challenges are influencing the strategic direction. Companies that react to these trends at an early stage and remain flexible can not only remain competitive, but also actively shape the future of the industry.