BASF and PQ, global provider of silicates, silicas and derivative products headquartered in Malvern, Pennsylvania, have signed an agreement for the sale of BASF’s silicates business, including related assets at the company’s Düsseldorf/Holthausen, Germany, site. The transaction is expected to close during the second half of 2026, pending customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Under the agreement, PQ will acquire BASF’s sodium silicates business and associated operations at the Düsseldorf/Holthausen facility. PQ said it plans to continue operating and developing the business following the acquisition to support continuity for customers and business partners.

“The sale of the silicates business is the result of a thorough strategic assessment within the Care Chemicals division,” said Jordi Tormo Blasco, vice president business management industrial formulators Europe at BASF. “With PQ, we have found a buyer with extensive experience in silicate production who can offer the business a sustainable long-term perspective.”

According to BASF, identifying a long-term solution for the business and maintaining continued cooperation at the Düsseldorf site were key priorities during the transaction process.

“BASF’s silicates business is an excellent strategic fit for our existing silicate network,” said Al Beninati, president and CEO of PQ. “The site’s central geographic location, highly skilled workforce, existing long-term partnerships with key customers and world-class facility provide an excellent foundation for further growth of the business.”

Both companies stated that operations are expected to continue as normal during the transition period, with plans for a seamless transition for customers and partners following completion of the transaction.

Learn more about BASF at basf.com. To get additional information about PQ, visit pqcorp.com.