“Let Me Solve Your Problems with Innovation, Expertise, and Proven Results.”
For over five decades, Duane Treybig has embodied the essence of scientific ingenuity, strategic insight, and transformative leadership across the chemical, oilfield, coatings, and polymer industries. A prolific inventor with 73 U.S. patents and over 279 worldwide patent procurements, Duane’s distinguished career is a testament to his relentless pursuit of progress and excellence. Whether advancing sustainable chemical formulations or commercializing breakthrough technologies, Duane has consistently turned complex challenges into measurable success stories.
Duane’s career began with a Master of Science in Chemistry from Texas A&M University and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from The University of Texas at Austin—academic foundations that equipped him with the analytical rigor and problem-solving mindset that would define his trajectory. His early research explored platinum dispersion in zeolites, foreshadowing a lifelong commitment to materials science and applied chemistry.
His initial years at Dow Chemical Company marked the beginning of an impressive arc in industrial innovation. At Dow, he synthesized and commercialized hydroxy-terminated polyesters for powder coatings, water-borne epoxy resin coatings for beverage cans, polystrylpyridine thermosets for NASA, hydroxyethyl piperazinone for regenerative SO2 scrubbing,
thermally stable corrosion inhibitors for high temperature and deep oil wells and advanced isocyanate catalysts. These contributions were not only groundbreaking but also commercially successful, introducing environmentally conscious products that became industry standards. His role in enhancing linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) formulations further cemented his reputation as a leader in polymer research.
As his career evolved, Duane seamlessly bridged laboratory research and practical application. At Berkshire Hathaway companies—including Lubrizol and Weatherford—he developed a lower cost and
higher conductivity fracturing process by forming pillars and Zeta Potential Altering Systems (ZPAS), pushing the boundaries of oilfield chemistry. His inventions enabled oil production without sand disruption and optimized flowback aid compositions. These achievements translated into millions in revenue and demonstrated his unique ability to align scientific advancement with operational performance.
In his leadership tenure at Champion X, Nextier Oilfield Solutions, and Smart Chemical Solutions, Duane formulated next-generation surfactants, low-interfacial tension flowback aids, formulated proppant buoyancy coatings for improving proppant transport, friction reducers, viscoelastic surfactants,
formulated corrosion inhibitors for >350 o C temperature oil wells friction reducers, and biodegradable lubricants. His creations were not just technically robust; they addressed critical industry challenges like environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The patented polyhydroxyetheramine (PHEA) composition and its use as a relative permeation modifier resulted in $6.1 million annually for
Champion X. The patented use of polyacrylamides as friction reducers revolutionize the fracturing process and brought Champion X nearly $40 million annually for numerous years. The patented anionic nano flowback aids he developed yielded interfacial tensions as low as 0.0025 mN/m and colloid sizes as small as 30 nm—truly paradigm-shifting formulations in shale fracturing applications.
Beyond technical formulation, Duane demonstrated extraordinary strategic acumen. At Finoric, he synthesized and introduced advanced oilfield production chemicals, such as more economical coil tubing lubricants. His work in reducing the pour point of triazine H₂S scavengers significantly improved safety and performance in sour gas environments. At AMNIS, Armite, and Night Hawk Completion Services, he further diversified his portfolio with lubricant and cleaner formulations, contributing to both aerospace and energy verticals.
His versatility spans across personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food industries. At Ceutical Labs, Duane employed advanced analytical techniques—like FTIR, HPLC, GC, IC and ICP—to verify product purity and regulatory compliance. His analytical rigor and understanding of FDA standards underscore his holistic command of chemistry, from bench-scale formulation and synthesis to full-scale commercialization.
In addition to his technical and managerial credentials, Duane is a widely published thought leader. His presentations at the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), NACE International, and various international symposia have shaped the discourse in hydrate inhibition, corrosion prevention, and clay stabilization. His 16 peer-reviewed publications and numerous technical symposium contributions reflect both intellectual depth and peer recognition.
Yet, Duane’s professional journey is not solely defined by patents and formulations. He is a community leader, having served as Vice President of the Palestine Evening Lions Club, where he championed outreach initiatives. His personal passions—astronomy, swimming, biking, and global travel—highlight a life enriched by curiosity and balance. His mission is clear: to stay intellectually engaged, share his deep expertise, and continue solving problems that others deem unsolvable.
Today, Duane seeks opportunities on advisory boards and leadership councils, where his unique combination of technical prowess, strategic insight, and collaborative spirit can catalyze innovation. With an open preference for companies of 10+ employees, he is especially interested in organizations in oilfields, chemicals, lubricants, and personal care—sectors where his legacy already speaks volumes.
He brings with him not just five decades of experience, but a rare blend of scientific, commercial, and interpersonal strengths. From leading virtual teams at Lubrizol to hands-on consulting through O&G Chemical Consulting, Duane’s career is proof that visionary science, when coupled with effective leadership, can transform industries and improve lives.
Character:
Duane Treybig is a dedicated and resilient professional who thrives in the face of complex challenges, always guided by integrity and a commitment to excellence. His longstanding career exemplifies an unwavering pursuit of solutions that deliver lasting value.
Knowledge:
With a Master’s degree in Chemistry and more than 50 years of applied experience, Duane has mastered formulation, synthesis, and commercialization across diverse sectors. His intellectual depth enables him to continuously innovate in both traditional and emerging domains.
Strategic:
Duane consistently brings a strategic lens to technical challenges, developing and launching products that address pressing industry needs while optimizing performance and cost. His visionary planning and execution have driven substantial growth and operational success for the organizations he’s served.
Communication:
A seasoned team leader and collaborator, Duane fosters open dialogue and cross-functional alignment, ensuring scientific ideas are translated into actionable strategies. His ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and persuasively sets him apart as a communicator and mentor.
