BASF selling silicates business to US supplier PQ

Dusseldorf, Germany – BASF has agreed to sell its silicates business, including assets at its Dusseldorf/Holthausen site, to US-based supplier PQ.

The move, announced 20 May, will support “the long-term development of the business and continuity for customers,” said BASF.

The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Financial details were not disclosed.

Under the agreement, Malvern, Pennsylvania-based PQ will acquire BASF’s sodium silicates business and associated activities and intends to continue and further develop the business following the purchase.

Silicates, according to BASF, are used across a broad range of industrial applications, including in rubber compounds and the ‘green tire’ sector, as well as paints and coatings, geotechnical applications, detergents and cleaning products.

BASF said the sale of the silicates business was the result of “a thorough strategic assessment” within its ‘care chemicals division.’

“With PQ, we have found a buyer with extensive experience in silicate production who can offer the business a sustainable long-term perspective,” said Jordi Tormo Blasco, VP business management industrial formulators Europe at BASF.

“It was important for us to identify a robust solution for the future of the business as well as a partner with whom we expect to continue close cooperation, given our continued presence at the Dusseldorf site,” Blasco added.

PQ described the acquisition as a strong fit with its existing silicates operations.

“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,” Al Beninati, president and CEO of PQ.

The companies said operations at the silicates business will remain unchanged during the transition period and that customers and partners are expected to see a “seamless transition” following completion of the transaction.