Creating, making and selling speciality chemicals for some of the biggest, most successful brands in the world, Croda International recently announced that it has acquired IonPhasE, an innovative technology supplier of static electricity protection products headquartered in Tampere, Finland.

Established in 2001, Finnish company IonPhasE has developed and supplies a unique range of anti-static additives that help to prevent damage to electrical components, increase the safety of chemical and food packaging and improve the long term appearance of consumer appliances. Focused on Electrostatic Discharge Protection (ESD) and Inherently Dissipative Polymers (IDPs), IonPhasE’s products use the most advanced technologies in the static electricity protection market, which work to release static electricity in a controlled way.

This acquisition supports Croda’s growth strategy within high technology, consumer driven markets and meets the increasing demand for polymer additives that control the static electricity in automotive parts, household appliances as well as personal electronic devices and other sensitive components.

IonPhasE’s products are a natural extension to Croda’s existing product portfolio and by bringing together the expertise of both research and development teams, a broader and more diverse range will be made available to customers through Croda’s dedicated global marketing and sales force.

Mike Millington, Polymer Additives global business director at Croda, said: “The acquisition of IonPhasE presents a significant opportunity to us at Croda with its differential product range operating in a niche, high value sector of the polymer market. The experience and knowledge of the IonPhasE management team, coupled with Croda’s innovation strength, global sales reach and complimentary technologies will allow us to better meet the needs of our customers”.

Claus Carlsen, Chief Executive Officer at IonPhasE added: “For over 16 years, we have focused on developing our technology in response to the needs of our customers. We are looking forward to developing this further with Croda’s support and expertise, whilst being able to reach existing and new customers faster through a higher level of customer intimacy. All of the team here at IonPhasE is excited about our future within the Croda Group”.