Process Development Center, Louisiana

Albemarle’s largest U.S. based R&D location, the PDC sits on a 33-acre site on Gulf States Road in Baton Rouge LA and employs more than 220 people, including more than 150 chemists and engineers, researchers and technologists.

At the PDC, Albemarle’s research employees conduct laboratory through large scale operations in search of new and improved products and processes. In addition to synthesis, analytical, technical service and conventional pilot-plant operations, the PDC consists of a sample-preparation unit that produces initial quantities of new or improved products for customer evaluation; and a market development unit dedicated to the production of initial commercial quantities.

In April of 2005 a new 27,000 sq ft laboratory was completed supporting key R&D activities for the company’s Polymer Additives and Fine Chemicals global business divisions. Chemists and engineers conduct laboratory-scale research, synthesis, analysis, evaluation and application testing of new and improved products. This new, state-of-the-art facility demonstrates Albemarle’s commitment to our customers and to new product development.