Transaction Covering the Düsseldorf/Holthausen Sodium Silicates Operations Is Expected to Close in H2 2026
BASF has signed an agreement to sell its silicates business to U.S.-based PQ following a strategic review within its Care Chemicals division. The deal includes sodium silicates operations and related assets at the Düsseldorf/Holthausen site, while PQ aims to further develop the business within its global silicates network.
Transaction Expected to Close in H2 2026
German chemical company BASF SE has agreed to sell its silicates business to U.S.-based PQ. Under the agreement, PQ will acquire BASF’s sodium silicates business, related operations and associated assets at the Düsseldorf/Holthausen site. The transaction is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The parties have agreed not to disclose the financial details of the deal.
PQ to Focus on Business Continuity
Following the acquisition, PQ plans to continue operating BASF’s sodium silicates business under its ownership while maintaining existing customer relationships. The company says ensuring production and supply continuity for customers and partners will be a key priority. As a global supplier of silicates, silicas and derivative products, PQ is expected to support the long-term development of the acquired business.
Silicates Serve a Wide Range of Industries
Silicates are versatile inorganic materials widely used across the chemical industry and in everyday applications. They are used in rubber and “Green Tire” applications, paints and coatings, geotechnical solutions, laundry detergents and cleaning products. For this reason, the transfer of BASF’s silicates business is seen not only as a portfolio move between two companies, but also as a strategic step affecting several industrial value chains.
BASF Sought a Long-Term Solution
Jordi Tormo Blasco, Vice President Business Management Industrial Formulators Europe at BASF’s Care Chemicals division, said the sale follows a thorough strategic assessment. He noted that PQ’s strong experience in silicate production can offer the business a sustainable long-term perspective. For BASF, the main priority was to secure a robust future for the business and to choose a partner with whom it can continue close cooperation, given its ongoing presence at the Düsseldorf site.
Acquisition to Strengthen PQ’s Global Network
Al Beninati, President and CEO of PQ, said BASF’s silicates business is a strong strategic fit for the company’s existing silicate network. According to Beninati, the site’s central location, skilled workforce, established long-term partnerships with key customers and advanced production infrastructure provide a solid foundation for future growth. PQ expects the acquisition to strengthen its ability to serve global customers with reliable quality and cost-effective solutions.
