BASF to sell silicates business, including assets in Düsseldorf, to PQ
Last update on May 22, 2026
Formulators sourcing sodium silicates can expect continuity to supply as BASF's silicates business transitions to PQ.
The two companies announced a signed agreement for the transfer of the sodium silicates business and associated operations at BASF's Düsseldorf/Holthausen site. Subject to regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close in H2 2026.
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Scope of the transfer: Site, portfolio, and operations
PQ, an established supplier of silicates, silicas, and derivative products with global operations, will take ownership of the sodium silicates portfolio and the Holthausen site.
Sodium silicates are inorganic materials used across a range of industrial and consumer applications, including rubber and Green Tire formulations, paints and coatings, geotechnical applications, and laundry and cleaning products. PQ has stated its intention to continue and further develop the business following the transfer.
“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. From the outset, 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 Düsseldorf site.”
“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. This acquisition will further enable PQ to serve our global customers with reliable quality and cost-effective solutions.”