The Chemical Industry and Gresham's Economy
Chemicals rarely get the spotlight, but they are essential to nearly every industry in Gresham. Semiconductor fabs in the city depend on high-purity process chemicals and industrial gases. Construction and home improvement projects rely on paints, coatings, and sealants. Water and wastewater treatment, including Gresham's nationally recognized treatment plant, requires carefully managed chemical supplies. Food processing, healthcare, and manufacturing all depend on chemical inputs as well.
The Portland metro area hosts a mix of chemical manufacturers, specialty producers, and distributors. Many serve Gresham through facilities in North Portland, the Columbia Corridor, and the west side's technology cluster. Here are ten chemical companies that play important roles for Gresham businesses and residents.
The Top 10 Chemical Companies Serving Gresham
1. Arkema
Arkema is a global specialty materials company with a long-standing chemical manufacturing facility in Portland. It produces chemicals used in water treatment, pulp and paper, and other industrial applications.
2. Linde
Linde is one of the world's largest industrial gas companies, supplying oxygen, nitrogen, argon, hydrogen, and specialty gases. Semiconductor fabs, hospitals, and metal fabricators in the region depend on its reliable gas supply.
3. Air Liquide
Air Liquide provides industrial and medical gases and has a strong presence supporting the Northwest semiconductor industry. Its high-purity gases and services are critical to chip manufacturing.
4. Univar Solutions
Univar Solutions is a leading chemical distributor serving manufacturers, food processors, and water treatment facilities. Its regional distribution network allows Gresham businesses to source a wide range of chemicals efficiently.
5. Brenntag
Brenntag is the world's largest chemical distributor, supplying industrial and specialty chemicals to customers across many industries. Its technical support and logistics capabilities help businesses manage complex supply needs.
6. Cascade Columbia Distribution
Cascade Columbia Distribution is a Pacific Northwest chemical distributor with deep regional knowledge. It serves water treatment, agriculture, food processing, and industrial customers with responsive local service.
7. Rodda Paint
Rodda Paint is a Portland-founded paint manufacturer with a long history in the Northwest. Its coatings are formulated for the region's wet climate and are widely used by contractors and homeowners in Gresham.
8. Miller Paint
Miller Paint is an employee-owned company that has manufactured paint in the Portland area for decades. It is known for quality products, knowledgeable staff, and a commitment to low-VOC formulations.
9. Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams supplies architectural and industrial coatings through stores and commercial channels in Gresham. Its broad product range serves painting contractors, manufacturers, and property managers.
10. McCall Oil and Chemical
McCall Oil and Chemical has a long history in the Portland area supplying petroleum-based products, asphalt, and specialty chemicals for construction and industrial customers.
Key Industries Served
Chemical companies serving Gresham support semiconductor manufacturing, water and wastewater treatment, construction, food and beverage processing, agriculture, healthcare, and metal fabrication. Each industry has unique requirements for purity, safety, and regulatory compliance, making experienced suppliers essential.
Safety and Environmental Responsibility
Chemical handling is heavily regulated to protect workers, communities, and the environment. Companies must comply with federal and state rules covering storage, transportation, emissions, and emergency planning. Oregon's environmental agencies maintain strict oversight, and many chemical companies participate in industry stewardship programs that go beyond regulatory minimums. For Gresham, protecting groundwater and the Columbia South Shore Well Field is a particularly important consideration.
Trends in the Chemical Industry
Green chemistry is a major trend, with manufacturers developing products that reduce toxicity, emissions, and waste. Low-VOC paints and coatings have become standard in many applications. The growth of semiconductor manufacturing is increasing demand for ultra-high-purity chemicals and gases. Digital tools for inventory management and supply chain visibility are also helping customers reduce waste and improve safety.
How to Choose a Chemical Supplier
Evaluate product quality, safety records, regulatory expertise, delivery reliability, and technical support. For specialized applications such as semiconductor processing or water treatment, look for suppliers with relevant certifications and industry experience. A strong supplier will act as a partner in safety and compliance, not just a vendor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do semiconductor fabs need so many chemicals?
Chip manufacturing involves hundreds of steps, including cleaning, etching, and deposition, each requiring ultra-pure chemicals and gases. Even trace contamination can ruin a wafer, so reliable, high-purity supply is essential.
Where can a small business buy industrial chemicals?
Chemical distributors such as those listed above serve businesses of all sizes, offering smaller package sizes, safety data sheets, and technical guidance on proper storage and handling.
Are low-VOC paints really better?
Low-VOC and zero-VOC paints release fewer volatile organic compounds, which can improve indoor air quality and reduce odors during and after painting. Modern formulations perform comparably to traditional paints in most applications.
How are chemical spills prevented?
Companies use secondary containment, employee training, regular inspections, and emergency response plans. Regulations require proper labeling, storage, and reporting to protect workers and nearby communities.
Final Thoughts
The chemical companies on this list help power Gresham's most important industries while working to meet rising standards for safety and sustainability. From the gases flowing into local fabs to the paint on neighborhood homes, their products are woven into everyday life in East County.