We turn molecules into materials that move industries forward.
Rheinfeld Petrochemical Research develops advanced chemical materials, catalysts, and processes for manufacturers who need performance, purity, and compliance they can rely on.
A research partner for the chemical value chain
We work at the point where chemistry meets production — turning laboratory findings into processes a plant can actually run.
For over two decades, Rheinfeld has worked alongside refiners, polymer producers, and specialty manufacturers to solve problems at the molecular level. Our laboratories in Mannheim and our pilot facility on the Rhine let us move from a hypothesis on a whiteboard to a validated process at industrial scale, without losing sight of safety, cost, or environmental impact along the way.
We are chemists first. Every project starts with a question about reaction mechanisms, molecular structure, or material behavior, and ends with something a plant manager can put into production with confidence.
- HeadquartersMannheim, Germany
- Laboratory & pilot plantIndustriepark Rheinau
- FocusPetrochemical R&D
- Clients servedRefiners & manufacturers
Services
From an early feasibility question to a fully validated industrial process, our teams work alongside yours at every stage.
Custom chemical synthesis
We design and scale novel synthesis routes for specialty chemicals, from gram-scale feasibility studies through to pilot production.
Catalyst & process optimization
We improve the yield, selectivity, and energy efficiency of existing chemical processes through catalyst redesign and reaction engineering.
Materials testing & analytics
Our accredited laboratories characterize polymers, additives, and feedstocks against the standards your customers require.
Regulatory & compliance consulting
We help clients navigate REACH, CLP, and international chemical regulation, from formulation through to registration.
Research & development areas
Five domains where our laboratories run active, funded research programs alongside industrial partners.
Advanced polymers
High-performance polymer systems for demanding thermal and mechanical environments.
Catalysis & reaction engineering
Catalyst systems and reactor designs that raise selectivity while lowering energy use.
Specialty additives
Additive packages that improve stability, flow, and shelf life of finished products.
Green & sustainable chemistry
Lower-emission process routes and feedstocks that meet tightening environmental rules.
Petrochemical feedstock innovation
New feedstock and fractionation strategies for a more resilient supply chain.
What our research delivers
Chemistry research only matters if it changes what happens on the plant floor. Here is the impact our partners see most often.
Every research program at Rheinfeld is judged against a simple question: does it make our partner's process better, safer, or cheaper to run? That discipline shapes how we choose projects and how we report results.
The figures alongside are averaged across projects completed in the last five years, and are shared with clients as part of every final research report.
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30%Average reduction in catalyst cost through selective catalyst redesign
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25%Lower process emissions after sustainable process redesign
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40%Faster scale-up from laboratory to industrial production
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99.5%Typical product purity achieved for industrial partners
Certifications
Our laboratories and management systems are independently certified against the following international standards.
Quality management
Certified quality management system across all research and testing operations.
Environmental management
Independently audited environmental management for our laboratory and pilot plant sites.
Occupational health & safety
Certified occupational health and safety management for all laboratory personnel.
Testing & calibration
Accreditation for the technical competence of our testing and calibration laboratories.
Energy management
Certified energy management system supporting our pilot plant's efficiency targets.
Certificates are renewed on a three-year audit cycle; copies are available to clients and partners on request.
Get in touch
Tell us about the material, process, or problem you are working on. A member of our research team will reply within two business days.
68159 Mannheim, Germany