The Dow Chemical Company has had a rich history in particle technology from the early days of aspirin, MethocelTM, polystyrene and StyrofoamTM to the myriad of present day products including specialty polymers, agricultural chemicals, and water soluble polymers. This paper will look back at the development of particle-based intermediates and products and how they shaped the company's direction to its present position today. Key in the development of these products has been the people who invented and developed manufacturing processes for them. That traditional continues with the existence of the Solids Processing Disciplines and Technology Centers in place at Dow today. Lastly, the paper will look at the challenges which lie ahead in solids processing into the 21st century.

Methocel and Styrofoam are trademarks of The Dow Chemical Company