Key centers in Saint-Fons (CRTL) and Aubervilliers (CRTA) in France

Rhodia’s European R&D network comprises two main centers based in Saint-Fons (Lyon) and Aubervilliers (Paris), as well as R&D teams based at Rhodia plants in Belle-Etoile, Collonges and La Rochelle (France), and at our Freiburg, Germany and Ospiate, Italy locations.

The Center for Research and Technology in Lyon (CRTL) hosts some 500 experienced scientists. CRTL experts are internally and externally recognized for their skills in materials, polymerization synthesis and processes, catalysis, physico-chemistry, process safety and chemical engineering, environment, analytical technics, knowledge management and industrial property. This center also houses engineering teams charged with managing Rhodia’s investment projects.

Finally, the site relies on regional collaborations with universities and engineering colleges in the Rhône-Alps region, along with public and private research institutes and Axelera.

The CRTL teams make a considerable contribution towards our positioning as market leader in intermediates for use in perfumery and agro-chemistry, as well as in major consumer goods such as engineering plastics for automotive parts and casings for telephones.

The Center has become equally well-known as a major player in long-term development by continually improving its products and processes and reducing its environmental footprint.

The Center for Research and Technology in Aubervilliers (CRTA) hosts some 200 experts recognized for their key skills in design, formulation, processes and characterization of fine inorganic products, specialty polymers, complex fluids and materials.

The CRTA experts contribute in positioning us as a leader in silica for tires to replace carbon black, in rare earths to reduce vehicle emissions and inorganic materials for low energy light bulbs. Also, due to their expertise and deep understanding of customers and societal needs, our CRTA R&D teams constantly react to new challenges in agrochemistry, as environmentally-friendly agrochemical additives gain worldwide acceptance, and in the personal market with innovative formulations that bring a new feel to personal care products.