Chemistry in transition: from breakthroughs to speed

Specialty chemicals are one of Europe's key strengths. While basic chemicals are under cost pressure, knowledge-intensive segments such as additives, coatings and ingredients remain competitive. But here, too, the logic of innovation is changing fundamentally.   

CHEManager: Is the classic innovation logic of specialty chemicals becoming less important?  
   
Jan Haemer: Historically, specialty chemistry was strongly technology-driven. Companies developed new molecules with clear unique selling points -often with long life cycles and stable customer relationships. Liquid crystals or superabsorbers show how individual innovations were able to secure high margins over many years.  
   
Marie Verdier: The model still exists…