Many European chemical companies are projected to report strong earnings for the last quarter. Ahead of the earnings, the Euro Stoxx Chemicals Index has reach reached an all-time high as shown in the graphic below:

Source: Stoxx

Some of the reasons for this include the solid recovery in the industry since 2009, optimism on profits and more M&A in the industry. Further consolidation in the industry is likely this year.Earlier this month Belgium’s Solvay (SVYZY) agreed to buy Rhodia of France to expand its footprint in the fast-growing emerging markets. On April 21st Akzo Nobel(AKZOY) announced a 58% rise in first-quarter profits and said it will raise prices and cut expenses to mitigate the increasing cost of raw materials.

Though many of these chemical stocks have reached their 52-week highs recently, there is still potential for further growth. Some of the large European chemical firms are listed below for further analysis and consideration:

1.Arkema SA (OTC:ARKAY)
Current Price: $101.10
Country: France

2.Air Liquide SA (OTC:AIQUY)
Current Price: $ 28.48
Country: France

3.Linde (OTC:LNEGY)
Current Price: $ 17.40
Country: Germany

4.Bayer AG (OTC:BAYRY)
Current Price: $ 82.35
Country: Germany

5.Yara International (OTC:YARIY)
Current Price: $ 53.08
Country: Norway

6.K+S AG (OTC:KPLUY)
Current Price: $ 39.75
Country: Germany

7.Syngenta (SYT)
Current Price: $ 71.02
Country: Switzerland

Note: Prices noted above are as of April 21, 2011

Disclosure: No positions