Overview

Dow Chemical (commonly called Dow) is a long-established multinational chemical company headquartered in Midland, Michigan. It is one of the world's largest chemical producers and is widely ranked just behind BASF in scale and scope. Dow supplies raw materials and formulated products used across many industries, from packaging to transportation and electronics.

Products and activities

Dow's operations focus on the manufacture, formulation and sale of industrial chemicals and materials. Typical product categories include:

  • Plastics and polymers (used in packaging, consumer goods and construction)
  • Performance materials for coatings, adhesives and specialty applications
  • Chemical intermediates and basic industrial chemicals
  • Solutions for electronics, energy and water treatment

These product lines underpin many everyday items and industrial processes and are delivered through global production sites and research facilities.

History and corporate development

The company traces its origins to the late 19th century, when it was founded by industrial chemists who developed new processes for extracting and using chlorine and other basic chemicals. In recent decades Dow has pursued growth through acquisitions, partnerships and major corporate restructurings. Notably, it combined with DuPont in 2017 before reorganizing into independent, more focused businesses in the following years. Today Dow emphasizes materials science and industrial solutions.

Importance and issues

Dow is important to global manufacturing because it supplies foundational materials used in packaging, automotive parts, construction, electronics and agriculture. Its research and development efforts aim to improve performance, lower costs and advance sustainability. At the same time, like many large chemical makers, Dow has faced regulatory scrutiny and legal challenges related to environmental and safety matters, prompting investments in compliance, remediation and safer technologies.

For company information, product details and investor resources, see corporate sites and major industry publications. For context on the U.S. headquarters and global operations, consult sources in the United States and international trade reports.