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Chemicals

BELLEVUE, WA, April 7, 2021 (Press Release) -Wind Point Partners (“Wind Point”) and Ascensus Specialties LLC (“Ascensus”) today announced that Ascensus has completed the acquisition of Strem Chemicals, Inc. (“Strem” or the “Company”). Strem is a global leader in high-purity, research-grade catalysts, ligands, organometallics, metal carbonyls and CVD/ALD precursors.

Based in Newburyport, Massachusetts, Strem sells and manufactures specialty chemicals for the most demanding, high-purity end markets of life sciences, microelectronics and other specialties markets. Founded in 1964 by Michael Strem, the Company’s products serve as critical components for manufacturers, researchers and academics. In addition, Strem provides custom synthesis and cGMP manufacturing services for high-potency APIs (active pharmaceutical ingredients).

Headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, Ascensus is the world leader in borohydride, borane, and specialty alcoholates production. Wind Point built Ascensus through the acquisitions of former Dow Chemical and BASF specialty chemicals businesses. Ascensus’ specialty chemicals are essential reagents for life sciences, microelectronics and other specialties customers across North America, Europe and Asia.

Mike Huff, CEO of Ascensus, stated, “We are extremely excited to have Strem join the Ascensus family. Strem has a world-class team and a renowned reputation that has been methodically fostered for over half a century under the leadership of Michael Strem and Ephraim Honig. We will look to further support the team’s highly technical R&D culture, differentiated product offering and value-added customer relationships. Together, Ascensus and Strem will be a global specialty chemicals leader serving the demanding, high-growth life sciences and specialties markets.”

Alex Washington, Wind Point Managing Director, added, “Strem represents an excellent addition to the Ascensus platform. The combined business will have capabilities to offer solutions ranging from lab to large scale commercial production. Strem’s industry-leading technical competency is a meaningful addition to Ascensus’ existing capabilities, and Ascensus looks forward to working with Ephraim and the Strem team to amplify new product and application development efforts.”

Ephraim S. Honig, former CEO of Strem, will be joining the Ascensus leadership team as Chief Science and Innovation Officer and will oversee the combined businesses’ Research and Development function. Mr. Honig noted, “We are excited to become part of the Ascensus family and begin the next chapter for our employees, customers and partners. Ascensus and Strem have highly complementary chemistry capabilities and end market applications. We look forward to accelerating our investment in R&D capabilities to drive innovation and new chemistries on behalf of our customers.”

Michael Strem, Founder & President of Strem Chemicals, commented, “We thoughtfully chose Ascensus as the partner for the next phase of Strem’s growth. Our employees’ interests and well-being have been my top priority, and the strong cultural fit will provide opportunities for our team. The additional resources and global reach of Ascensus will deliver Strem’s strong capabilities to an even broader audience of customers."

Reed Smith LLP served as legal counsel to Wind Point and Ascensus, and KPMG LLP provided advisory services in connection with the transaction. Honigman LLP served as legal counsel and Grace Matthews, Inc. served as financial advisor to Strem.

About Ascensus Specialties

Headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, Ascensus Specialties LLC is the global leader in borohydride, borane and specialty alcoholate reagents. Ascensus chemistries improve the way its clients create their products by making what they do easier, more efficient, safer and more selective. From world-class production plants in Elma, Washington, and Evans City, Pennsylvania, Ascensus has a global reach that ensures that clients can consistently manufacture their products to the highest standards.

Additional information about Ascensus is available atwww.ascensusspecialties.com.

About Strem Chemicals

Strem Chemicals, Inc., established in 1964, is a manufacturer and marketer of specialty chemicals of high purity. Strem’s key offerings include catalysts, ligands, organometallics, metal carbonyls and CVD/ALD precursors. The Company’s products are used for research and development and commercial scale applications, particularly within life sciences, microelectronics, and other specialties end markets. Strem also provides custom synthesis (including high pressure synthesis) and cGMP manufacturing services.

Additional information about Strem Chemicals is available atwww.strem.com.

About Wind Point Partners

Wind Point Partners is a Chicago-based private equity investment firm with approximately $3.5 billion in assets under management. Wind Point focuses on partnering with top caliber management teams to acquire well-positioned middle market businesses where it can establish a clear path to value creation. The firm targets investments in the consumer products, industrial products and business services sectors. Wind Point is currently investing out of Wind Point Partners IX, a $1.5 billion fund that was initiated in 2019.

Additional information about Wind Point is available at www.windpointpartners.com.

Ascensus acquires Strem Chemicals in high-purity specialty chemicals

Posted in: Chemicals 04/09/2021 - 17:50

BELLEVUE, WA, April 7, 2021 (Press Release) -Wind Point Partners (“Wind Point”) and Ascensus Specialties LLC (“Ascensus”) today announced that Ascensus has completed the acquisition of Strem Chemicals, Inc. (“Strem” or the “Company”). Strem is a global leader in high-purity, research-grade catalysts, ligands, organometallics, metal carbonyls and CVD/ALD precursors.

Based in Newburyport, Massachusetts, Strem sells and manufactures specialty chemicals for the most demanding, high-purity end markets of life sciences, microelectronics and other specialties markets. Founded in 1964 by Michael Strem, the Company’s products serve as critical components for manufacturers, researchers and academics. In addition, Strem provides custom synthesis and cGMP manufacturing services for high-potency APIs (active pharmaceutical ingredients).

Headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, Ascensus is the world leader in borohydride, borane, and specialty alcoholates production. Wind Point built Ascensus through the acquisitions of former Dow Chemical and BASF specialty chemicals businesses. Ascensus’ specialty chemicals are essential reagents for life sciences, microelectronics and other specialties customers across North America, Europe and Asia.

Mike Huff, CEO of Ascensus, stated, “We are extremely excited to have Strem join the Ascensus family. Strem has a world-class team and a renowned reputation that has been methodically fostered for over half a century under the leadership of Michael Strem and Ephraim Honig. We will look to further support the team’s highly technical R&D culture, differentiated product offering and value-added customer relationships. Together, Ascensus and Strem will be a global specialty chemicals leader serving the demanding, high-growth life sciences and specialties markets.”

Alex Washington, Wind Point Managing Director, added, “Strem represents an excellent addition to the Ascensus platform. The combined business will have capabilities to offer solutions ranging from lab to large scale commercial production. Strem’s industry-leading technical competency is a meaningful addition to Ascensus’ existing capabilities, and Ascensus looks forward to working with Ephraim and the Strem team to amplify new product and application development efforts.”

Ephraim S. Honig, former CEO of Strem, will be joining the Ascensus leadership team as Chief Science and Innovation Officer and will oversee the combined businesses’ Research and Development function. Mr. Honig noted, “We are excited to become part of the Ascensus family and begin the next chapter for our employees, customers and partners. Ascensus and Strem have highly complementary chemistry capabilities and end market applications. We look forward to accelerating our investment in R&D capabilities to drive innovation and new chemistries on behalf of our customers.”

Michael Strem, Founder & President of Strem Chemicals, commented, “We thoughtfully chose Ascensus as the partner for the next phase of Strem’s growth. Our employees’ interests and well-being have been my top priority, and the strong cultural fit will provide opportunities for our team. The additional resources and global reach of Ascensus will deliver Strem’s strong capabilities to an even broader audience of customers."

Reed Smith LLP served as legal counsel to Wind Point and Ascensus, and KPMG LLP provided advisory services in connection with the transaction. Honigman LLP served as legal counsel and Grace Matthews, Inc. served as financial advisor to Strem.

About Ascensus Specialties

Headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, Ascensus Specialties LLC is the global leader in borohydride, borane and specialty alcoholate reagents. Ascensus chemistries improve the way its clients create their products by making what they do easier, more efficient, safer and more selective. From world-class production plants in Elma, Washington, and Evans City, Pennsylvania, Ascensus has a global reach that ensures that clients can consistently manufacture their products to the highest standards.

Additional information about Ascensus is available atwww.ascensusspecialties.com.

About Strem Chemicals

Strem Chemicals, Inc., established in 1964, is a manufacturer and marketer of specialty chemicals of high purity. Strem’s key offerings include catalysts, ligands, organometallics, metal carbonyls and CVD/ALD precursors. The Company’s products are used for research and development and commercial scale applications, particularly within life sciences, microelectronics, and other specialties end markets. Strem also provides custom synthesis (including high pressure synthesis) and cGMP manufacturing services.

Additional information about Strem Chemicals is available atwww.strem.com.

About Wind Point Partners

Wind Point Partners is a Chicago-based private equity investment firm with approximately $3.5 billion in assets under management. Wind Point focuses on partnering with top caliber management teams to acquire well-positioned middle market businesses where it can establish a clear path to value creation. The firm targets investments in the consumer products, industrial products and business services sectors. Wind Point is currently investing out of Wind Point Partners IX, a $1.5 billion fund that was initiated in 2019.

Additional information about Wind Point is available at www.windpointpartners.com.

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WILMINGTON, DE, April 8, 2021 (Press Release) -Solenis, a leading global producer of specialty chemicals used in water-intensive industries, recently launched a new redesigned website at solenis.com/explore. The site features enhanced transparency into the company’s sustainability initiatives, easy-to-access product and solution information and an expanded career section.

Website visitors can browse resources related to Solenis’ sustainability work. The site includes a new sustainability and regulatory library that enables easy access to ISO and other regulatory certifications. In addition, visitors can access safety metrics and the company’s annual Sustainability Report. The site also provides information on the Solenis Sustainability Award, a new annual program recognizing customer projects that deliver meaningful, measurable sustainability results.

The website improves user experience, as well, with a new solution finder tool that makes it easier for customers to get industry-specific information for their operational and sustainability challenges. For example, food and beverage packaging customers can find information about the company’s eco-friendly formulations for paper packaging. Likewise, customers in industrial markets, such as geothermal power and mining, can search for innovative water treatment and process improvement solutions. The site also offers fast access to resources, including a new safety data sheet (SDS) library, as well as case histories and upcoming event schedules.

Another important element of the site redesign is the addition of a comprehensive careers section. Prospective employees can now search for Solenis career opportunities globally. The site also allows students and graduates to access information on internships, apprenticeships and the company’s world-class sales technology application rotation (STAR) program. The expanded careers section features information about the company’s diversity and inclusion commitment as well.

“With easy-to-find resources and expanded access to our environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts, our new website reflects our position as a global solutions provider helping water-intensive customers manage their resources,” said John Panichella, Solenis CEO. “It allows us to better showcase our innovative products and solutions, recruit the industry’s top talent and provide transparency into our commitment to sustainable growth.”

The website will be updated regularly with the company’s latest products, innovations, news and events. Solenis is also planning a new blog and website versions in several additional languages.

About Solenis

Solenis is a leading global producer of specialty chemicals for water-intensive industries, including the pulp, paper, oil and gas, petroleum refining, chemical processing, mining, biorefining, power and municipal markets. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of process, functional and water treatment chemistries, as well as state-of-the-art monitoring and control systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets and minimize environmental impact. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, the company has 39 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe and employs a team of approximately 5,200 professionals in 120 countries across five continents.

Solenis launches new redesigned website featuring sustainability solutions for water-intensive industries

Posted in: Chemicals 04/08/2021 - 09:43

WILMINGTON, DE, April 8, 2021 (Press Release) -Solenis, a leading global producer of specialty chemicals used in water-intensive industries, recently launched a new redesigned website at solenis.com/explore. The site features enhanced transparency into the company’s sustainability initiatives, easy-to-access product and solution information and an expanded career section.

Website visitors can browse resources related to Solenis’ sustainability work. The site includes a new sustainability and regulatory library that enables easy access to ISO and other regulatory certifications. In addition, visitors can access safety metrics and the company’s annual Sustainability Report. The site also provides information on the Solenis Sustainability Award, a new annual program recognizing customer projects that deliver meaningful, measurable sustainability results.

The website improves user experience, as well, with a new solution finder tool that makes it easier for customers to get industry-specific information for their operational and sustainability challenges. For example, food and beverage packaging customers can find information about the company’s eco-friendly formulations for paper packaging. Likewise, customers in industrial markets, such as geothermal power and mining, can search for innovative water treatment and process improvement solutions. The site also offers fast access to resources, including a new safety data sheet (SDS) library, as well as case histories and upcoming event schedules.

Another important element of the site redesign is the addition of a comprehensive careers section. Prospective employees can now search for Solenis career opportunities globally. The site also allows students and graduates to access information on internships, apprenticeships and the company’s world-class sales technology application rotation (STAR) program. The expanded careers section features information about the company’s diversity and inclusion commitment as well.

“With easy-to-find resources and expanded access to our environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts, our new website reflects our position as a global solutions provider helping water-intensive customers manage their resources,” said John Panichella, Solenis CEO. “It allows us to better showcase our innovative products and solutions, recruit the industry’s top talent and provide transparency into our commitment to sustainable growth.”

The website will be updated regularly with the company’s latest products, innovations, news and events. Solenis is also planning a new blog and website versions in several additional languages.

About Solenis

Solenis is a leading global producer of specialty chemicals for water-intensive industries, including the pulp, paper, oil and gas, petroleum refining, chemical processing, mining, biorefining, power and municipal markets. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of process, functional and water treatment chemistries, as well as state-of-the-art monitoring and control systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets and minimize environmental impact. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, the company has 39 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe and employs a team of approximately 5,200 professionals in 120 countries across five continents.

Read more
    MUTTENZ, Switzerland, April 7, 2021 (Press Release) -
  • Distribution of CHF 0.70 for Group’s performance over past two financial years approved
  • Integrated Report and Group Consolidated Financial Statements for fiscal year 2020 approved
  • Shareholders approve Compensation Report 2020 on an advisory basis
  • Günter von Au newly elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors

At today’s Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of Clariant Ltd, a focused, sustainable and innovative specialty chemical company, approved all agenda items and resolutions proposed by the Board of Directors, including the election of Günter von Au as new Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Due to the ongoing situation with regard to the spread of the coronavirus, shareholders could not attend this year’s Annual General Meeting in person and could exercise their rights exclusively via the independent proxy. Overall, 231 091 133 shares or around 69.62 % of the share capital of Clariant were represented.

Günter von Au, Chairman of Clariant’s Board of Directors, said “It is a great honor for me to be elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors, especially because of the close relationship that I have with this company for almost a decade now. Together with all my fellow board members as well as CEO Conrad Keijzer, I look forward to continuing Clariant’s successful path towards becoming one of the world’s leading companies for specialty chemicals and create value for all stakeholders, including shareholders.”

“I wish to thank all Clariant customers, employees and shareholders for the trust, commitment and loyalty that I have experienced during my time as Member of the Board, CEO and Chairman. I am proud of all our achievements and am convinced that I leave Clariant on a strong basis from which it can continue its path of sustainable, profitable growth”, commented Hariolf Kottmann, former Chairman of Clariant’s Board of Directors.

Conrad Keijzer, CEO of Clariant, said: “The 2020 results prove the resilience of our portfolio and the hard work of our teams. We will now focus on unleashing the full potential of our three core Business Areas to strengthen our profile as a true specialty chemicals company. Today, I have shared my confidence with our shareholders that our strong market positions can deliver leading financial performance and thereby further increase the value of Clariant.”At the Annual General Meeting, the Integrated Report as well as the Financial Statements and Consolidated Financial Statements of Clariant for the 2020 fiscal year were approved with 99.89 % of the votes. The 2020 Compensation Report was also approved on an advisory basis with 92.55 % of the votes. The members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee were discharged with 99.47 % of the votes.

In addition, the Annual General Meeting approved a distribution through capital reduction (par value reduction) of CHF 0.70 per share, with 99.84 % of the votes. The CHF 0.70 distribution should not be interpreted as a recurring dividend or distribution as it takes into consideration the Group’s performance of the past two financial years (CHF 0.55 per share for FY 2019 and CHF 0.15 per share for FY 2020).

The Annual General Meeting approved the election of Günter von Au as new Chairman of the Board of Directors until the Annual General Meeting 2022 with 97.96 %. Günter von Au has been a member of the Board of Directors since 2012 and acted as Vice Chairman from 2012 to 2018. The ten other members of the Board of Directors were also reelected by a large majority until the next Annual General Meeting. Further, Dr. Balthasar Settelen, attorney, was reelected as independent proxy until the next Annual General Meeting and PricewaterhouseCoopers AG was confirmed as the statutory auditor for 2021.

The proposal for total compensation of the Board of Directors for the term from the 2021 to the 2022 Annual General Meeting was approved with 92.82 % of the votes, as was the total compensation of the Executive Committee for the 2022 fiscal year, with 93.39 % of the votes. 

Clariant's shareholders approve all agenda items and resolutions proposed by its BOD

Posted in: Chemicals 04/08/2021 - 09:01
    MUTTENZ, Switzerland, April 7, 2021 (Press Release) -
  • Distribution of CHF 0.70 for Group’s performance over past two financial years approved
  • Integrated Report and Group Consolidated Financial Statements for fiscal year 2020 approved
  • Shareholders approve Compensation Report 2020 on an advisory basis
  • Günter von Au newly elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors

At today’s Annual General Meeting, the shareholders of Clariant Ltd, a focused, sustainable and innovative specialty chemical company, approved all agenda items and resolutions proposed by the Board of Directors, including the election of Günter von Au as new Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Due to the ongoing situation with regard to the spread of the coronavirus, shareholders could not attend this year’s Annual General Meeting in person and could exercise their rights exclusively via the independent proxy. Overall, 231 091 133 shares or around 69.62 % of the share capital of Clariant were represented.

Günter von Au, Chairman of Clariant’s Board of Directors, said “It is a great honor for me to be elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors, especially because of the close relationship that I have with this company for almost a decade now. Together with all my fellow board members as well as CEO Conrad Keijzer, I look forward to continuing Clariant’s successful path towards becoming one of the world’s leading companies for specialty chemicals and create value for all stakeholders, including shareholders.”

“I wish to thank all Clariant customers, employees and shareholders for the trust, commitment and loyalty that I have experienced during my time as Member of the Board, CEO and Chairman. I am proud of all our achievements and am convinced that I leave Clariant on a strong basis from which it can continue its path of sustainable, profitable growth”, commented Hariolf Kottmann, former Chairman of Clariant’s Board of Directors.

Conrad Keijzer, CEO of Clariant, said: “The 2020 results prove the resilience of our portfolio and the hard work of our teams. We will now focus on unleashing the full potential of our three core Business Areas to strengthen our profile as a true specialty chemicals company. Today, I have shared my confidence with our shareholders that our strong market positions can deliver leading financial performance and thereby further increase the value of Clariant.”At the Annual General Meeting, the Integrated Report as well as the Financial Statements and Consolidated Financial Statements of Clariant for the 2020 fiscal year were approved with 99.89 % of the votes. The 2020 Compensation Report was also approved on an advisory basis with 92.55 % of the votes. The members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee were discharged with 99.47 % of the votes.

In addition, the Annual General Meeting approved a distribution through capital reduction (par value reduction) of CHF 0.70 per share, with 99.84 % of the votes. The CHF 0.70 distribution should not be interpreted as a recurring dividend or distribution as it takes into consideration the Group’s performance of the past two financial years (CHF 0.55 per share for FY 2019 and CHF 0.15 per share for FY 2020).

The Annual General Meeting approved the election of Günter von Au as new Chairman of the Board of Directors until the Annual General Meeting 2022 with 97.96 %. Günter von Au has been a member of the Board of Directors since 2012 and acted as Vice Chairman from 2012 to 2018. The ten other members of the Board of Directors were also reelected by a large majority until the next Annual General Meeting. Further, Dr. Balthasar Settelen, attorney, was reelected as independent proxy until the next Annual General Meeting and PricewaterhouseCoopers AG was confirmed as the statutory auditor for 2021.

The proposal for total compensation of the Board of Directors for the term from the 2021 to the 2022 Annual General Meeting was approved with 92.82 % of the votes, as was the total compensation of the Executive Committee for the 2022 fiscal year, with 93.39 % of the votes. 

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COLUMBUS, OH, March 31, 2021 (Business Wire) -Hexion Inc. today announced that it is working to complete a limited number of the necessary government approvals and other customary closing conditions to complete the sale of its Phenolic Specialty Resin, Hexamine and European-based Forest Products Resins businesses. As a result, the Company now expects the transaction to close on April 30, 2021.

About the Company

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Hexion Inc. is a global leader in thermoset resins. Hexion Inc. serves the global adhesive, coatings, composites and industrial markets through a broad range of thermoset technologies, specialty products and technical support for customers in a diverse range of applications and industries. Additional information about Hexion Inc. and its products is available at www.hexion.com.

About Black Diamond

Founded in 1995, Black Diamond is a leading investment firm with over $8 billion assets under management across complementary private equity and credit platforms operating from offices in Greenwich, CT and London, UK.

About Investindustrial

Investindustrial is a leading European group of independently managed investment, holding and advisory companies with €11 billion of raised fund capital. With ESG principles deeply embedded into the Firm’s core approach, Investindustrial has a 30 year history of providing mid-market companies capital, industrial expertise, operational focus and global platforms to accelerate sustainable value creation and international expansion. Certain companies of the Investindustrial group are authorized by, and subject to regulatory supervision of the FCA in the United Kingdom and the CSSF in Luxembourg. Investindustrial’s investment companies act independently from each other and each Investindustrial fund. Additional information is available at www.investindustrial.com.

Hexion updates timing for sale of phenolic specialty resins, hexamine and European-based forest products resins businesses

Posted in: Chemicals 04/03/2021 - 16:23

COLUMBUS, OH, March 31, 2021 (Business Wire) -Hexion Inc. today announced that it is working to complete a limited number of the necessary government approvals and other customary closing conditions to complete the sale of its Phenolic Specialty Resin, Hexamine and European-based Forest Products Resins businesses. As a result, the Company now expects the transaction to close on April 30, 2021.

About the Company

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Hexion Inc. is a global leader in thermoset resins. Hexion Inc. serves the global adhesive, coatings, composites and industrial markets through a broad range of thermoset technologies, specialty products and technical support for customers in a diverse range of applications and industries. Additional information about Hexion Inc. and its products is available at www.hexion.com.

About Black Diamond

Founded in 1995, Black Diamond is a leading investment firm with over $8 billion assets under management across complementary private equity and credit platforms operating from offices in Greenwich, CT and London, UK.

About Investindustrial

Investindustrial is a leading European group of independently managed investment, holding and advisory companies with €11 billion of raised fund capital. With ESG principles deeply embedded into the Firm’s core approach, Investindustrial has a 30 year history of providing mid-market companies capital, industrial expertise, operational focus and global platforms to accelerate sustainable value creation and international expansion. Certain companies of the Investindustrial group are authorized by, and subject to regulatory supervision of the FCA in the United Kingdom and the CSSF in Luxembourg. Investindustrial’s investment companies act independently from each other and each Investindustrial fund. Additional information is available at www.investindustrial.com.

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WINTERTHUR, Switzerland, March 31, 2021 (Press Release) -Sulzer is expanding its presence in Denmark with the construction of a new service center that will provide its full range of product sales and maintenance services throughout the region, all from under one roof. The new facility will join Sulzer’s global network of service centers that work together to deliver local support backed by worldwide expertise.

The new service center will create synergies in sales and maintenance processes and will enable customers to realize improved efficiency, sustainability and cost-effectiveness in their operations, in line with Sulzer’s stated goals for sustainable development. The new facility is centrally located in Middelfart, Denmark, with excellent transport links to many of Sulzer’s key customers in markets that include water and wastewater, pulp and paper, oil and gas as well as chemical processing. It will provide businesses with access to new equipment sales in addition to services for pumps, electromechanical equipment and turbomachinery. It will also offer a conveniently located base for Sulzer’s growing team of field service engineers.

Daniel Bischofberger, Division President Rotating Equipment Services at Sulzer, adds: “This new facility is the latest in a rapidly expanding network of Sulzer service centers. They have a proven role in helping the company to develop closer relationships with customers across the globe and increasing distribution efficiencies for spare parts.”

The purpose-built 1’728 m2 service center will include some 1’300 m2 of workshop space, helping Sulzer to optimize workflow and ensure fast turnarounds on projects, providing an efficient service for customers.

Sulzer expands its sales and aftermarket business with construction of new service center in Denmark

Posted in: Chemicals 04/01/2021 - 09:19

WINTERTHUR, Switzerland, March 31, 2021 (Press Release) -Sulzer is expanding its presence in Denmark with the construction of a new service center that will provide its full range of product sales and maintenance services throughout the region, all from under one roof. The new facility will join Sulzer’s global network of service centers that work together to deliver local support backed by worldwide expertise.

The new service center will create synergies in sales and maintenance processes and will enable customers to realize improved efficiency, sustainability and cost-effectiveness in their operations, in line with Sulzer’s stated goals for sustainable development. The new facility is centrally located in Middelfart, Denmark, with excellent transport links to many of Sulzer’s key customers in markets that include water and wastewater, pulp and paper, oil and gas as well as chemical processing. It will provide businesses with access to new equipment sales in addition to services for pumps, electromechanical equipment and turbomachinery. It will also offer a conveniently located base for Sulzer’s growing team of field service engineers.

Daniel Bischofberger, Division President Rotating Equipment Services at Sulzer, adds: “This new facility is the latest in a rapidly expanding network of Sulzer service centers. They have a proven role in helping the company to develop closer relationships with customers across the globe and increasing distribution efficiencies for spare parts.”

The purpose-built 1’728 m2 service center will include some 1’300 m2 of workshop space, helping Sulzer to optimize workflow and ensure fast turnarounds on projects, providing an efficient service for customers.

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    MUTTENZ, Switzerland, March 30, 2021 (Press Release) -
  • Participation reinforces active support for more circular plastics economy
  • Partnerships and collaboration to advance plastics value chain
  • Specialty chemicals as key enabler for product circularity and waste minimization

Clariant, a focused, sustainable and innovative specialty chemical company, today announced it has officially joined the EU Circular Plastics Alliance. The alliance aims to enhance plastics recycling in line with the objectives of the EU Circular Economy Action Plan and the Green Deal program. Clariant's engagement is part of the company's active support for the transition towards a more circular plastics economy.

“Shifting towards a global circular plastics economy is an immense challenge that can only be brought forward through ambitious commitments, collaborations and an active stakeholder dialog. As part of the Circular Plastics Alliance, Clariant is looking forward to working closely with other key players in advancing plastics circularity throughout Europe,” said Bernd Hoegemann, Clariant’s Chief Transformation Officer.

Clariant is committed to the Alliance’s goal to boost the EU market for recycled plastics to 10 million tons by 2025. The company’s focus is on addressing the obstacles that are hampering a higher circularity of products within the plastics value chain, in line with the waste hierarchy principles. Clariant’s strategy is based on a smart combination of design for reduction, recycling, and reuse options, as well as solutions for mechanical or chemical recycling.

“Specialty chemicals can act as enablers for new solutions that enhance circularity of plastics by maintaining the value of products, materials and resources in the economy for as long as possible, and by minimizing the generation of waste. Clariant aims to be a leading provider of specialty chemicals that are indispensable to transform a one-way plastics value chain into a circular plastics economy,” added Richard Haldimann, Head of Sustainability Transformation.

In 2019, Clariant also established EcoCircle, a company-wide initiative that goes beyond a product focus, looking at the entire value chain, identifying the most sustainable and viable solutions for a circular plastics economy. “With EcoCircle we have the right platform and competencies to identify solutions for closing the loop and to engage with key stakeholders to accelerate plastics circularity,” added Richard Haldimann.

Clariant officially joins EU Circular Plastics Alliance to reinforce active support for more circular plastics economy

Posted in: Chemicals 03/31/2021 - 09:12
    MUTTENZ, Switzerland, March 30, 2021 (Press Release) -
  • Participation reinforces active support for more circular plastics economy
  • Partnerships and collaboration to advance plastics value chain
  • Specialty chemicals as key enabler for product circularity and waste minimization

Clariant, a focused, sustainable and innovative specialty chemical company, today announced it has officially joined the EU Circular Plastics Alliance. The alliance aims to enhance plastics recycling in line with the objectives of the EU Circular Economy Action Plan and the Green Deal program. Clariant's engagement is part of the company's active support for the transition towards a more circular plastics economy.

“Shifting towards a global circular plastics economy is an immense challenge that can only be brought forward through ambitious commitments, collaborations and an active stakeholder dialog. As part of the Circular Plastics Alliance, Clariant is looking forward to working closely with other key players in advancing plastics circularity throughout Europe,” said Bernd Hoegemann, Clariant’s Chief Transformation Officer.

Clariant is committed to the Alliance’s goal to boost the EU market for recycled plastics to 10 million tons by 2025. The company’s focus is on addressing the obstacles that are hampering a higher circularity of products within the plastics value chain, in line with the waste hierarchy principles. Clariant’s strategy is based on a smart combination of design for reduction, recycling, and reuse options, as well as solutions for mechanical or chemical recycling.

“Specialty chemicals can act as enablers for new solutions that enhance circularity of plastics by maintaining the value of products, materials and resources in the economy for as long as possible, and by minimizing the generation of waste. Clariant aims to be a leading provider of specialty chemicals that are indispensable to transform a one-way plastics value chain into a circular plastics economy,” added Richard Haldimann, Head of Sustainability Transformation.

In 2019, Clariant also established EcoCircle, a company-wide initiative that goes beyond a product focus, looking at the entire value chain, identifying the most sustainable and viable solutions for a circular plastics economy. “With EcoCircle we have the right platform and competencies to identify solutions for closing the loop and to engage with key stakeholders to accelerate plastics circularity,” added Richard Haldimann.

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OSLO, Norway, March 31, 2021 (Press Release) -Sustainable biochemicals company Circa Group AS has announced that Dr Sarah Hickingbottom has joined the company as General Manager for New Product Development and Stakeholder Relations on 29 March 2021.

Dr Hickingbottom was previously CEO of BioVale, a bioeconomy innovation cluster based in Yorkshire, UK. She has extensive global consultancy experience from LMC International and Frost & Sullivan advising brand owners, chemical manufacturers and agricultural producers on oleochemicals, bio-based chemicals and fuels, including markets, feedstocks, economics, policy, innovation and scale-up. Her Organic Chemistry PhD is from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Following Circa’s successful IPO in March 2021, this new role adds capabilities to deliver on Circa’s strategy to develop and commercialise derivatives of Levoglucosenone (LGO). Dr Sarah Hickingbottom will work closely with customers across Circa’s networks, including with the BBI JU and Consortium members involved in the H2020 Flagship project ReSolute plant in Eastern France.

Tony Duncan, CEO and co-founder of Circa Group, said, “We are delighted that Sarah is joining us – her considerable skills and experience in a wide range of sustainable chemistry markets considerably strengthen Circa’s commercialisation objectives. Our sustainable Levoglucosenone platform offers considerable opportunity for industry to both replace current difficult petro-based molecules as well as consider molecules that until now have been prohibitively expensive to utilise in commercial applications.”

About Circa

Established in 2006, Circa Group converts waste, non-food biomass into advanced bio-based chemicals with its proprietary Furacell process. Its developing product portfolio includes flavours, biopolymers, and bio-solvents including Cyrene, an alternative to traditional polar aprotic solvents, which is produced in one step from platform biomolecule Levoglucosenone. By creating renewable chemicals from cellulose, Circa is extracting value from non-food, waste biomass and addressing a gap in the market by providing bio-based alternatives contributing to a more circular economy. In March 2021, Circa Group successfully listed on the Euronext Growth Market in Oslo, stock symbol CIRCA.

Circa Group appoints Sarah Hickingbottom as new GM for product development and stakeholder relations

Posted in: Chemicals 03/31/2021 - 04:18

OSLO, Norway, March 31, 2021 (Press Release) -Sustainable biochemicals company Circa Group AS has announced that Dr Sarah Hickingbottom has joined the company as General Manager for New Product Development and Stakeholder Relations on 29 March 2021.

Dr Hickingbottom was previously CEO of BioVale, a bioeconomy innovation cluster based in Yorkshire, UK. She has extensive global consultancy experience from LMC International and Frost & Sullivan advising brand owners, chemical manufacturers and agricultural producers on oleochemicals, bio-based chemicals and fuels, including markets, feedstocks, economics, policy, innovation and scale-up. Her Organic Chemistry PhD is from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Following Circa’s successful IPO in March 2021, this new role adds capabilities to deliver on Circa’s strategy to develop and commercialise derivatives of Levoglucosenone (LGO). Dr Sarah Hickingbottom will work closely with customers across Circa’s networks, including with the BBI JU and Consortium members involved in the H2020 Flagship project ReSolute plant in Eastern France.

Tony Duncan, CEO and co-founder of Circa Group, said, “We are delighted that Sarah is joining us – her considerable skills and experience in a wide range of sustainable chemistry markets considerably strengthen Circa’s commercialisation objectives. Our sustainable Levoglucosenone platform offers considerable opportunity for industry to both replace current difficult petro-based molecules as well as consider molecules that until now have been prohibitively expensive to utilise in commercial applications.”

About Circa

Established in 2006, Circa Group converts waste, non-food biomass into advanced bio-based chemicals with its proprietary Furacell process. Its developing product portfolio includes flavours, biopolymers, and bio-solvents including Cyrene, an alternative to traditional polar aprotic solvents, which is produced in one step from platform biomolecule Levoglucosenone. By creating renewable chemicals from cellulose, Circa is extracting value from non-food, waste biomass and addressing a gap in the market by providing bio-based alternatives contributing to a more circular economy. In March 2021, Circa Group successfully listed on the Euronext Growth Market in Oslo, stock symbol CIRCA.

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OFTRINGEN, Switzerland , March 29, 2021 (Press Release) -Omya, a leading global producer of industrial minerals and a worldwide distributor of specialty chemicals, is increasing prices for its Calcium Carbonate products globally, starting from April 1, 2021 or as customer contracts allow.

The price increase is necessary due to escalating chemical raw materials, freight and energy costs globally, as well as inflation.

“In spite of our efforts in controlling costs through continuous process improvements, we are unable to absorb the impact of the increased costs that we are currently experiencing,” said Philippe Quéméner, Executive Vice President Operations, responsible for the global procurement activities within Omya.

Omya will continue to work in partnership with customers to help mitigate the increases by delivering innovative and cost-effective solutions paired with our unrivaled technical service.

About Omya

Omya is a leading global producer of industrial minerals – mainly derived from calcium carbonate, dolomite and perlite – and a worldwide distributor of specialty chemicals. The company provides a wealth of innovative product solutions that contribute to its customers' competitiveness and productivity in multiple industries such as Construction, Paper & Board, Polymers, Food and Personal & Home Care. Omya further provides Environmental Solutions targeting the agriculture, water and energy markets. Founded in 1884 in Switzerland, Omya has a global presence extending to more than 175 locations in over 50 countries with 9,000 employees.

Committed to implementing the principles of sustainability at all company levels, Omya provides added value products and services from responsibly sourced materials to meet the essential needs of current and future generations.

Omya to increase prices for its calcium carbonate products globally from April 1, 2021

Posted in: Chemicals 03/29/2021 - 12:46

OFTRINGEN, Switzerland , March 29, 2021 (Press Release) -Omya, a leading global producer of industrial minerals and a worldwide distributor of specialty chemicals, is increasing prices for its Calcium Carbonate products globally, starting from April 1, 2021 or as customer contracts allow.

The price increase is necessary due to escalating chemical raw materials, freight and energy costs globally, as well as inflation.

“In spite of our efforts in controlling costs through continuous process improvements, we are unable to absorb the impact of the increased costs that we are currently experiencing,” said Philippe Quéméner, Executive Vice President Operations, responsible for the global procurement activities within Omya.

Omya will continue to work in partnership with customers to help mitigate the increases by delivering innovative and cost-effective solutions paired with our unrivaled technical service.

About Omya

Omya is a leading global producer of industrial minerals – mainly derived from calcium carbonate, dolomite and perlite – and a worldwide distributor of specialty chemicals. The company provides a wealth of innovative product solutions that contribute to its customers' competitiveness and productivity in multiple industries such as Construction, Paper & Board, Polymers, Food and Personal & Home Care. Omya further provides Environmental Solutions targeting the agriculture, water and energy markets. Founded in 1884 in Switzerland, Omya has a global presence extending to more than 175 locations in over 50 countries with 9,000 employees.

Committed to implementing the principles of sustainability at all company levels, Omya provides added value products and services from responsibly sourced materials to meet the essential needs of current and future generations.

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