Clariant completes acquisition of BASF’s US attapulgite business assets

Clariant has completed the acquisition of BASF’s US-based attapulgite business assets for $60 million (€60.5 million).
The finalised deal also includes an agreement for the long-term supply of attapulgite-based products to BASF.
Adsorbent clays, such as attapulgite, are an important enabler for growth in the purification of edible oils and renewable fuels.
In edible oil they remove contaminants thereby enhancing the shelf-life and oil quality, whereas in renewable fuels they play a key role in removing contaminants during the pre-treatment process, thereby protecting the catalyst.
This enables a particularly stable and economically viable process.
"This acquisition is a perfect example of our disciplined approach to bolt-on acquisitions as it provides tangible synergies, strengthens one of our core segments and brings us closer to our 2025 targets,” said Conrad Keijzer, chief executive officer at Clariant.
“At the same time, the acquisition is another step forward in the energy transition away from fossil-based fuels.”
The attapulgite business is one of the largest miners and producers of attapulgite in North America. It encompasses mining operations in Georgia as well as Florida and processing operations in Quincy, Florida.
“We are very pleased with the completion of this acquisition in the US,” added Angela Cackovich, president of adsorbents and additives at Clariant.
“Along with a strategically valuable business, we also welcome 75 highly qualified professionals. Our increased presence in the region will allow for greater customer proximity and enhances our ability to meet the demands of an attractive, rapidly expanding market.”
North America is a strategic region for Clariant with numerous growth opportunities in the edible oil and renewable fuel markets.