NODE: From Ideas to Industrial Applications
An integrated R&D network, connecting expertise, data and infrastructure to accelerate technology developmentNEXTCHEM's Operating Research & Development Excellence (NODE) brings together complementary research and development centers in Rome, Milan, Frankfurt, Sittard and Basel.
Working as one integrated network, the centers support technologies from early experimentation and proces optimization to pilot-scale validation and preparation for industrial application.
Many Places, One Living System
NODE connects scientific research, engineering know-how and industrial capabilities across three specialized centers.
Each location contributes distinctive expertise while sharing knowledge, data and technical experience across the network and with NEXTCHEM business lines.
This integrated model helps reduce duplication, strengthen collaboration, and make the most of each center's specialization. The result is a clearer development path from a promising idea to a more mature and validated technology.
The network combines capabilities across five macro research areas: Polymers, Catalysis, Low-carbon fuels, Analytical chemistry, Critical materials and minerals.
Supporting the Technology Development Journey
NODE supports technology development through four connected stages:
- Ideation: Defining the industrial need and the technology hypothesis.
- Proof of concept: Experimentally verifying the concept in the laboratory.
- Mini-pilot: Beginning scale-up and collecting the data needed to refine the process.
- Pilot plant: Demonstrating and validating the process under more representative operating conditions.
How NODE Works
Specialization: Each center develops programs aligned with its distinctive capabilities.
Knowledge sharing: Data, experience, and technical know-how are exchanged across the network.
Collaboration: The centers coordinate with NEXTCHEM business lines to identify R&D synergies and support technology development.
Open infrastructure: NODE Roma is designed to host demonstration units and selected collaborative projects, according to project requirements.
Visit Our NODE Centers
Connecting Research and Industry
NODE is where technologies are tested, improved, and brought closer to industrial applications.
By connecting specialized people, facilities and knowledge, the network supports the development of proprietary NEXTCHEM technologies and, where applicable, selected projects with clients, industrial partners, technology providers, universities and research organizations.
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