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Abstract
The fine chemical industry manufactures products that are used by many major industrial sectors, including food and beverage, cosmetic, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, electronic, paper, automotive, painting and water industries. The industry saw significant changes in the first quarter of the current century, including the uptake of new “greener” production technology, digitalization, and changes in structure and geographical distribution. Despite its relevance and significant annual growth rates lasting since decades, knowledge of this industry amid chemistry and chemical engineering scholars, including graduate and undergraduate students, is often limited. Providing an updated critical insight on the industry and the main changes occurred in the last 25 years, this study identifies the technology and policy drivers of change. The conclusions of the study may inform further practice-oriented education on the industrial aspects of the chemical enterprise.
