LANXESS celebrates 100 years of iron oxide pigment production, highlighting innovation, sustainability, global leadership, and future battery applications.
Specialty chemicals manufacturer LANXESS is commemorating a remarkable milestone as it celebrates 100 years of iron oxide pigment production at its Krefeld-Uerdingen facility in Germany. The anniversary highlights not only the company's long-standing expertise in pigment manufacturing but also its enduring influence on a global market in which it continues to hold a leading position.
The journey began in 1926 when production of iron oxide pigments was first established at the Krefeld-Uerdingen site. Over the past century, the facility has produced more than 15 million metric tons of pigments, an extraordinary volume that reflects the scale and importance of the operation. To put this achievement into perspective, the amount of pigment produced could be used to manufacture more than 200 billion liters of paint—enough to coat an area equivalent to the size of Germany five times over.
Today, the site remains a cornerstone of LANXESS' global operations, with an annual production capacity of approximately 300,000 metric tons. Through its well-known Bayferrox product line, the company has maintained its position as the world's largest producer of synthetic iron oxide pigments. These pigments are recognized worldwide for their exceptional durability, color consistency, weather resistance, and versatility across numerous industrial applications.
Iron oxide pigments produced by LANXESS have become an integral component of modern infrastructure and urban development. They are widely used in construction materials such as paving stones, roof tiles, concrete products, coatings, and plastics. Their impact extends far beyond industrial settings, appearing in some of the world's most recognizable landmarks and public spaces. Examples include the distinctive red pavement near Buckingham Palace in London and the striking exterior of Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg, demonstrating the pigments' ability to combine functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Speaking at the centennial celebration, Michael Ertl, Head of LANXESS' Inorganic Pigments business unit, emphasized the importance of innovation and employee dedication in shaping the success of the pigment business. He noted that millions of people encounter LANXESS pigments every day through roads, buildings, rooftops, and facades, while continuous innovation has enabled the products to expand into a wide variety of additional applications.
Beyond construction and architecture, iron oxide pigments have found use in numerous specialized industries. They are incorporated into artificial turf systems for sports facilities, automotive safety components such as airbags and brake pads, and catalysts used in chemical production processes. Looking ahead, LANXESS is also exploring new opportunities in electromobility, where iron oxide pigments are being developed as precursor materials for advanced electric vehicle battery technologies.
The company's century-long achievement has earned recognition from local government officials and community leaders. Frank Meyer, Mayor of Krefeld, described the Krefeld-Uerdingen operation as a significant chapter in industrial history and an important contributor to the region's economy. He highlighted how LANXESS has consistently demonstrated resilience and innovation while adapting to changing market conditions and industrial transformation. According to Meyer, the company's success benefits not only its workforce but also the broader community through economic growth and employment opportunities.
The roots of this success can be traced to the groundbreaking work of chemist Julius Laux. In 1926, Laux developed an innovative process during aniline production that transformed an iron-containing byproduct into a high-quality synthetic pigment. This breakthrough laid the foundation for one of the most successful and enduring product families in the chemical industry.
Demand for iron oxide pigments surged following World War II as reconstruction efforts across Europe created a substantial need for building materials and construction products. This period of rapid growth helped solidify the company's position as a global leader in pigment production, a status it continues to maintain today.
Over the decades, LANXESS has expanded its portfolio to include more than 100 pigment shades and formulations, supported by a worldwide manufacturing and distribution network. Despite its global presence, the Krefeld-Uerdingen facility remains the central hub for the Bayferrox and Colortherm brands, serving as a focal point for innovation, research, and production excellence.
Sustainability has also become a defining element of the company's pigment business. LANXESS states that its iron oxide pigments possess one of the lowest carbon footprints in the industry, thanks in part to the continued use of the Laux process. Often regarded as an early example of circular economy principles, the process converts a byproduct from aniline manufacturing into a valuable standalone product, maximizing resource efficiency while reducing waste generation.
In addition, the company continues to invest in reducing emissions throughout its operations by improving production processes, optimizing energy consumption, and enhancing logistics efficiency. These efforts align with broader corporate sustainability goals while supporting the growing demand for environmentally responsible materials.
As LANXESS enters its second century of iron oxide pigment manufacturing, the company is building upon a legacy of innovation, quality, and sustainability. By combining decades of technical expertise with investments in emerging technologies and future-focused applications, LANXESS aims to strengthen its leadership position while contributing to advancements in industries ranging from construction and advanced manufacturing to electric mobility and energy storage.
