Huber Strengthens Fire Retardant Additive Portfolio with Acquisition of Almatis’ Specialty Hydrate Business

05-Apr-2012 - USA

Huber Specialty Hydrates, LLC (HSH), a subsidiary of J.M. Huber Corporation, announces it has acquired the specialty hydrate flame retardant business of Almatis, Inc. located in Bauxite, Arkansas. The acquisition includes the Bauxite, Arkansas specialty hydrate manufacturing operation and all product grades under the Hydral^® and SpaceRite^® brands.

“The addition of the Almatis specialty hydrate business located in Bauxite is another exciting step in the growth of Huber’s Fire Retardant Additive business, as we continue to strengthen our portfolio of non-halogen flame retardant offerings,” says Jerry Bertram, Vice President and General Manager of the Industrial Mineral business of Huber Engineered Materials (HEM), a division of Huber. “HEM entered into a tolling arrangement over a year ago with Almatis to sell, market and provide technical service support for its specialty hydrates. With the outstanding success of that venture, we expect a smooth ownership transition.”

The Hydral and SpaceRite products will continue to be manufactured in Bauxite and all product specifications will remain the same. Since the tolling arrangement began in December 2010, HEM has been building strong relationships globally with a number of companies seeking specialty hydrate flame retardants.

“We look forward to continue working with our specialty hydrate customers, as we have built a strong rapport with them through the original tolling agreement,” adds Bertram. “When combining the Almatis product line with the Kemgard^® smoke suppressant business acquired in 2010 and HEM’s history in fire retardant additives, HEM has built an extensive array of product offerings for a variety of applications.”

https://www.chemeurope.com/en/news/137338/huber-strengthens-fire-retardant-additive-portfolio-with-acquisition-of-almatis-specialty-hydrate-business.html