Evonik Acquires the Polyurethane Additives Business of BYK-Chemie

ESSEN -- Evonik Industries is strengthening its position in the market for additives required in polyurethane (PU) foam production. The Group has acquired the SILBYK® polyurethane foam additives business from BYK-Chemie GmbH, Wesel, Germany. The transaction includes the existing business contacts and expertise in the manufacture of SILBYK® products for the polyurethane foam industry. The acquisition complements Evonik's existing, innovative portfolio of polyurethane foam additives. PU foams are mainly used as insulation material in the construction industry and in foodstuff cold chains and as upholstery material in the furniture, mattress, and automotive industry.

The transaction allows the Polyurethane Additives Business Line of Evonik to enhance its existing business in some market segments and to strengthen its overall market position in the long term.

The total market for polyurethane additives is growing continuously. Evonik's PU additives have presence in Asia, especially China, which is a regional growth market in this region. In addition to polyurethane foam stabilizers, the Evonik portfolio includes metal and amine catalysts, release agents, colorants, antioxidants, antistatic agents and other performance additives used in the manufacturing of polyurethane foams and to provide certain physical properties to the final foam products.

About Evonik Industries

Evonik Industries is the creative industrial group from Germany. Evonik is an expert in power generation from hard coal and renewable energies, and one of the largest private residential real estate companies in Germany. Evonik is active in over 100 countries around the world. In its fiscal year 2009 about 39,000 employees generated sales of about €13.1 billion and an operating profit (EBITDA) of about €2.0 billion.

Forward looking statements

In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.

Source: Evonik Industries