Ascensus buys Strem Chemicals

Ascensus has completed the acquisition of Strem Chemicals, bringing together two major suppliers of catalogue chemicals, mainly for life science, microelectronic and other speciality applications. Strem CEO Ephraim Honig will become chief science and innovation officer and will oversee the combined businesses’ R&D function.

Wind Point managing director Alex Washington said that the combined firm “will have capabilities to offer solutions ranging from lab to large-scale commercial production. Strem’s industry-leading technical competency is a meaningful addition to Ascensus’ existing capabilities,” he added.

Based at Newburyport, Massachusetts, Strem makes and high purity chemicals including catalysts, ligands, organometallics, metal carbonyls, and CVD and ALD precursors. It also offers custom synthesis and cGMP manufacturing services for high potency APIs, including high pressure synthesis.

Ascensus, which is owned by Wind Point Partners, brings together some former Dow Chemical and BASF speciality chemicals businesses. It claims to be the world leader in borohydride, borane and speciality alcoholates, which it manufactures at two sites in the US.