Rhodia recently inaugurated its new international R&D centre in Shanghai, China, that was created to spearhead the Group's innovation in the Asia-Pacific zone. This centre has now become one of Rhodia's five major R&D centres in the world. Its chief focus will be on the development of high technology innovations, which respect the principles of sustainable development and aim to provide cost-effective solutions.

Taking full advantage of ultra-modern scientific equipment, this research centre optimises both safety and quality of work, while promoting interaction between researchers. A 'pilot hall' designed on a modular basis will allow the scientists to extrapolate their laboratory work more rapidly, and more efficiently, in a way that remains as close as possible to the realities of industrial production. Rhodia has already set up a team of 70 researchers for the center, who have contributed 15 inventions to the company. In 2010, the centre will cover 6,500 sq m and employ a total of 150 research scientists.