Specialty chemicals company LANXESS is celebrating 100 years of iron oxide pigment production at its Krefeld-Uerdingen site in Germany. Since production began in 1926, the company has manufactured more than 15 million tonnes of iron oxide pigments—enough to produce over 200 billion litres of paint, capable of covering an area the size of Germany five times.
With an annual production capacity of around 300,000 tonnes, LANXESS remains the global market leader in synthetic iron oxide pigments. Its Bayferrox brand has become an industry benchmark for high-quality pigments used in paving stones, roof tiles, coatings and plastics. Notable applications include the red asphalt outside Buckingham Palace in London and the façade of Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg.
“People encounter our pigments every day—on streets, roofs and façades,” said Michael Ertl, Head of the Inorganic Pigments Business Unit at LANXESS. “Thanks to the pioneering spirit of our employees in Krefeld, our pigments have become indispensable in many other applications as well.”
Today, the pigments are also used in artificial turf, automotive airbags and brake pads, catalysts for chemical processes, and emerging battery applications for electric vehicles.
From a Breakthrough Process to a Global Brand
The success story began in 1926 when chemist Julius Laux developed an innovative process during aniline production that converted iron oxide into a high-quality synthetic pigment. Following World War II, demand surged during Europe’s reconstruction, driving rapid growth and establishing the foundation for LANXESS’ leadership in the iron oxide pigment market.
As per the company’s press release, the product portfolio has since expanded to more than 100 shades, while a global manufacturing network has strengthened the company’s international presence. Even today, Krefeld-Uerdingen remains the heart of LANXESS’ iron oxide pigment business under the Bayferrox and Colortherm brands.
Driving Sustainability Through Circular Economy
LANXESS also continues to advance sustainable manufacturing. Its iron oxide pigments have one of the industry’s lowest carbon footprints, largely because of the proprietary Laux process, which converts a by-product of aniline production into high-quality iron oxide pigments. This process represents an early example of the circular economy in action.
In addition, the company is reducing emissions across its value chain by improving production processes, increasing energy efficiency and optimising logistics.
Local Recognition for Industrial Excellence
Frank Meyer, Mayor of Krefeld, described the Krefeld-Uerdingen site as an important part of Germany’s industrial heritage and praised LANXESS for continuously reinventing itself.
He noted that while the chemical industry faces significant challenges, companies that embrace transformation and innovation are well positioned for the future. He added that the success of local industrial businesses also benefits the city and its communities.
About LANXESS
LANXESS is a leading specialty chemicals company with sales of EUR 5.7 billion in 2025. The company employs around 11,600 people across 32 countries and focuses on developing, manufacturing and marketing chemical intermediates, additives and consumer protection products. It has also earned recognition in leading ESG indices and sustainability ratings for its commitment to responsible business practices.
