Speciality chemical manufacturer Croda International (Snaith / UK; www.croda.com) has acquired IonPhasE (Tampere / Finland; www.ionphase.fi), which produces technologies that protect products against static electricity build-up, for an undisclosed sum. IonPhasE has developed and supplies a unique range of anti-static additives that help prevent damage to electrical components, boost the safety of chemical and food packaging as well as improve the long-term appearance of consumer appliances. Croda said the acquisition would support its growth strategy in niche markets that demand polymer additives controlling static electricity, such as in automotive components, household appliances and personal electronic devices.

Croda operates plants in the UK, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Africa. With almost 4,300 employees, the company generated sales of GBP 1.24 bn (EUR 1.52 bn) in 2016. Its Performance Technologies unit, which includes the plastics additives business, generated revenue of GBP 402m.