SK On, which makes batteries for electric vehicles, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Global Lithium Resources, which mines lithium from spodumene mineral at two sites in Western Australia. The two will “explore future business opportunities together in regard to stable supply of lithium”. Precise terms were not disclosed.
Peptides giant Bachem has agreed to acquire an undeveloped site covering 155,000 m2 in Sisslerfeld, north-western Switzerland, from DSM in order to manage growing demand. It has already acquired the first plot and others will follow in time. Terms are not being disclosed.
The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2022 has been awarded to three academic pioneers of click chemistry and bioorthogonal chemistry: previous winner K. Barry Sharpless of Scripps Research; Morten Meldal of the University of Copenhagen: and Carolyn R. Bertozzi of Stanford University. “Sometimes simple answers are the best,” said the committee awarding the prize. “Click chemistry and bioorthogonal reactions have taken chemistry into the era of functionalism” and “this is bringing the greatest benefit to humankind.”
Together with Algo Artis, Japan’s Nippon Shokubai has developed an algorithm-based means for the production planning of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) based on acrylic acid, and has started operations at its plant in Himeji following all the necessary validations and modifications. This is in line with its ‘TechnoAmenity for the future’ strategy, which was unveiled in April 2021 and will be extended to other products.
Life science ingredients distributor Barentz International has acquired Viachem, a distributor of life science ingredients and speciality chemicals. Based in Texas and Georgia, Viachem claims to have a unique model that combines “a dedicated market research function and digitally enabled sales and marketing capabilities”, using trained and highly specialised technical sales specialists.
Solenis has agreed to acquire the paper process chemicals business of Kolb Distribution, a unit of KLK Kolb. Terms were not disclosed.The deal includes a long-term supply agreement, in which KLK Kolb will manufacture paper process chemicals exclusively for Solenis.
This is the fourth acquisition made by Solenis since Platinum Equity acquired it last year. The two firms will operate independently until closing, which is expected to be by the end of Q1 2023, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
Chemours has announced a planned $200 million investment to increase capacity and advance technology for its industry-leading Nafion ion exchange materials. The company is now evaluating potential locations in the US and Europe for the investment, in accordance with applicable regulatory frameworks.
