How to Choose a Custom Synthesis Partner

The demand for small-scale synthesis of novel chemicals, from milligrams to kilograms, is growing as industries such as paints and coatings, inks, 3D printing materials, construction chemicals, and electronics seek innovative raw materials. However, the formulators driving innovation in these sectors are often not retro-synthetic chemists. They require efficient, reliable and flexible synthesis services to focus on improving formulation performance rather than chemical synthesis. This article discusses the current challenges in small-scale chemical synthesis, the benefits of using specialized providers, and how AI-driven methodologies and web-based platforms can revolutionize the procurement process.

Innovation Needs in Molecule and Material Discovery

The development of novel chemicals is critical to the advancement of industries such as coatings, adhesives, electronics and construction materials. Companies increasingly rely on specialty chemicals to enhance product performance, but formulators who understand application needs often lack synthetic chemistry expertise. By outsourcing synthesis to specialists, formulators can focus on their core competency - optimizing formulations for better durability, adhesion, conductivity or other key properties.

The application of AI to molecular and materials discovery is transforming the chemical industry by dramatically accelerating the development of new compounds. Traditionally, the process of identifying and synthesizing new chemicals involved extensive trial and error, consuming both time and resources. Now, AI-powered algorithms analyze massive data sets, predict molecular properties, and suggest optimized formulations, reducing the need for costly laboratory experiments. This approach enables formulators to quickly explore new ingredients with enhanced performance characteristics, such as improved durability, conductivity or environmental compatibility. Companies that use AI for molecule discovery and formulation will gain a competitive advantage by shortening development cycles and unlocking previously unattainable material innovations (McKinsey, 2024).

The need for efficient small-scale synthesis is compounded by the increasing number of new chemical registrations. Since the TSCA amendments in 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has received over 2,600 new chemical submissions, with approximately 192 submissions in 2024 alone (EPA, 2024). Other reports suggest that about 2,000 new chemicals are introduced into U.S. commerce each year (DTSC, 2024). These figures underscore the continuing demand for new chemicals and the importance of reliable synthesis services.

What to Look For In a Custom Synthesis Partner

To support innovation, chemical synthesis providers must address several key factors:

Broad Technology Toolbox

A wide variety of synthetic methods and equipment provides flexibility to handle a wide range of chemical transformations. Diversity of installed laboratory equipment increases process efficiency and adaptability.

Easy Procurement and Standardized Terms

A streamlined ordering process, with clear transaction models and standardized terms and conditions, ensures faster project initiation and reduces administrative overhead.

Short Lead Times

Time-to-market is critical in competitive industries. Standardized lab setups, robotics, and AI-optimized reaction planning help minimize turnaround times.

Intellectual Property Protection

Maintaining confidentiality and ensuring that formulations and synthesis routes remain proprietary is critical. Reliable synthesis partners must have robust data security and legal safeguards in place.

Cost Predictability

Transparent pricing models allow formulators to effectively plan their budgets. Avoiding hidden fees and cost overruns is essential to maintaining financial control.

Quality and Reproducibility

Consistent, high-quality results are essential for successful chemical development. Online analysis and automated monitoring improve reaction control and reproducibility.

Scalability

Results from small-scale production must be scalable to large-scale production. Understanding scalability issues is key to ensuring stable supply chains in the future.

Challenges with Existing Small-Scale Synthesis Providers

Despite the growing demand for novel chemicals, existing synthesis options often fall short due to inefficiencies, IP risks and regulatory challenges. There is an extensive network of pharmaceutical CDMOs that are often too expensive for non-GMP chemicals.

Disadvantages of using pharmaceutical CDMOs

Excessive cost: Project costs can have a high floor, making iteration of relatively simple molecules not economically feasible.
Long lead times: Firms can be booked many months in advance, slowing down development.
IP ownership and royalties: Complex legal arrangements can slow the process and result in paying royalties.
Inefficient scale-up: Techniques appropriate for pharmaceuticals may not scale with specialty toll manufacturers.

Disadvantages of using low-cost overseas CDMOs

While overseas contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) offer lower costs, there are several drawbacks:

Communication barriers: Time zone differences and language challenges can cause misunderstandings and delays.
Quality concerns: Inconsistent manufacturing standards can affect reproducibility.
IP protection risks: Differences in intellectual property enforcement make it difficult to ensure confidentiality.
Long lead times: Logistics, customs clearance, and unforeseen delays can slow project timelines.

Disadvantages of using university labs

Many small companies and formulators consider university laboratories for small-scale synthesis, but this approach has significant limitations:

Lack of efficiency: Academic labs are not optimized for commercial-scale reproducibility.
Limited technology toolbox: Universities often lack the breadth of equipment or expertise needed for complex reactions.
Inconsistent timelines: Academic priorities (e.g., publications) can delay projects.
Regulatory and IP concerns: Lack of clear agreements can put proprietary information at risk.

Disadvantages of cross-border regulatory constraints

Engaging international suppliers introduces additional complications:

Regulatory Compliance: Different countries have different chemical regulations, creating potential compliance hurdles.
Import/export restrictions: Some chemicals are subject to trade restrictions that require extensive paperwork.
Unpredictable delays: Customs and documentation errors can cause shipment delays.

DigiChem Enables Rapid Development of New Molecules

As demand for new chemicals continues to grow, formulators need efficient, reliable synthesis services to remain competitive. DigiChem’s online custom synthesis platform provides a way to rapidly iterate on new molecules, scale to manufacturing, and bring innovative new products to market.

Request quotes using a simple, online workflow: Simply draw your molecule or upload a drawing from your preferred structure editor, select your quantity and specifications, and get a quote.
Pricing is simple and straightforward: The amount on the quote is the amount you pay. There are no hidden costs or ambiguous hourly rates.
Lead times are fast and clear: Our lead time includes sourcing materials, and our process is built from the ground up around fast delivery of custom molecules.
You have full control over your IP: We don’t make any claims to your molecules or how they are used. When you purchase materials from us, we provide detailed process and analytical data that you have complete freedom to use however you want.

Ready to get started? Go to chemos.digichem.com to start designing a molecule or to schedule an introductory call with the team.

References

Andreas Heyl