International. Orion Engineered Carbons announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire the manufacturer of carbon black acetylene, SN2A, from LyondellBasell Industries Holdings BV and its French subsidiary. SN2A was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Berre l'Etang, near Marseille, France.
Black Acetylene is a high-quality ultra-pure Specialized Carbon Black that is distinguished by its high electrical and thermal conductivity. Lithium-ion batteries and high-end electrical cables are key applications for this material.
"SN2A provides us with a trained team, proven technology and an operational plant. With this platform, we will significantly strengthen our capabilities in the lithium-ion battery market and expand our position in other attractive markets," said Corning F. Painter, CEO of Orion Engineered Carbons. "This acquisition fits perfectly with Orion's focus on Specialty Carbon Blacks. We look forward to welcoming the SN2A team to Orion and bringing the Acetylene Black to our portfolio."
The agreement with LyondellBasell includes provisions for a secure long-term supply of raw materials. Orion plans to strengthen production capacities at the Berre l'Etang facility.
The transaction closed on October 31, 2018.
