The business generated sales of around $1.5 billion in fiscal 2021 (30 September). In the transaction, some 1,300 employees and eight global production facilities for epoxy-based coatings and composite products used by end-markets such as wind energy, non-residential construction, industrial, electrical, automotive and aerospace will transfer to the new owner.

Hexion, which recently split into two separate companies to facilitate the epoxies sale, said it wants to use the proceeds to further pay down debt and invest in its adhesives and versatic acids and derivatives product lines, which will become its sole focus.

After the final divestment of a business line, the chemical producer said it will continue to build on its strong momentum, driven primarily by strong new residential construction and remodeling demand in North America. It also hopes to benefit from the expansion of capacities and gains from innovative new products, as well as demand for more sustainable building and coatings materials.

The company said its management team and board “will continue to evaluate strategic value creation options for its adhesives and versatic acid product lines, including a proposed initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange.  Chairman, president and CEO Craig Rogerson said management believes that, with Westlake as its new owner, the epoxy business will be well positioned.

Author: Dede Williams, Freelance Journalist