Union Carbide to Buy BP’s Silicone Business

Union Carbide Corp. said it intends to purchase BP Chemicals’ silicone surfactant business and expects a final agreement soon.

Silicone surfactants are used mainly in the manufacture of urethane foam for furniture, insulation, carpeting, bedding and automotive seating.

The purchase includes production facilities in Antwerp, Belgium, and Hythe, United Kingdom, and research and development labs in Meyrin, Switzerland.