Speciality chemical products developer Wacker has acquired Bio Med Sciences’ manufacturing assets and expertise to bolster its capabilities and market presence in silicone-coated healthcare products.
The purchase agreement between Wacker and the US-based Bio Med Sciences includes a silicone adhesive coating test and development centre for applications designed for medical devices and advanced wound care applications.
The deal also includes the transfer of the majority of Bio Med Sciences’ employees to Wacker.
Both entities have not disclosed the purchase price.
The acquisition will help Wacker to enhance its capabilities in the seamless development and manufacturing of silicone-coated adhesive products.
Additionally, the chemical products developer plans to utilise the acquired technology as a development platform for advancements in stick-to-skin applications, including wearable medical devices and scar care products.
The company also expects to offer comprehensive processing advice and technical service to coaters and product designers.
In addition, clients can now access new silicone adhesive-coated medical products via contract manufacturing.
Wacker board member Christian Kirsten said: “The acquisition is an important step for us. Now, we have the capability to drive forward our business with silicone specialties with even greater vigor.
“By taking over Bio Med Sciences’ assets, technology, and know-how, we are now a solution provider for the health care industry. We can support and collaborate with customers who are looking for innovative adhesive coating solutions in the healthcare sector even better.
“This new business perfectly complements our existing solutions of silicone-based gel adhesives for medical and cosmetic applications.”
The acquired assets, along with most of the workforce, will integrate into a newly established legal entity named Wacker Silicone Manufactured Innovations (WSMI).
WSMI will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Wacker Chemical from Allentown, Pennsylvania.
The company will cater to customers in the medical device and wound care sectors, providing services like prototype development, technical support, and contract manufacturing.
Wacker said that existing consumer products and associated brands will continue under Bio Med Sciences and are not included in the acquisition.
Wacker Chemical CEO and president Christoph Kowitz said: “With our own prototyping ability, we now have an opportunity to demonstrate the performance attributes and advantages of our silicones to coaters, converters, and designers of medical devices.”
